Cost to ship a car from Detroit to Tampa
Fact Checked by: Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,177 miles from Detroit to Tampa ranges from $920 to $1,441. Depending on factors like the transport type and season, you can expect your vehicle to land in Tampa, FL in 2–8 days. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Tampa to Detroit car shipping guide.
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Factors affecting Detroit to Tampa car shipping costs
Companies base their car shipping costs on a variety of factors. When transporting your vehicle from Detroit to Tampa, these factors will influence the cost:
Type of transport
There are different options for transporting your car from Detroit to Tampa, such as open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport, each catering to specific needs. When leaving Detroit, open carriers are the most cost-effective option, while enclosed transport provides added protection for luxury or classic cars. If you’re uncertain which option to use to get your vehicle to Tampa, refer to our guide comparing open vs. enclosed car shipping.
Vehicle size and type
The size and weight of your vehicle play a crucial role in determining shipping costs out of Detroit. Larger and heavier vehicles are more expensive to ship. For instance, shipping a large SUV to Tampa will cost more than a compact car due to the additional space and weight.
Distance and route
The distance from the America's Comeback City to the Big Guava — approximately 1,177 miles — directly influences fuel and labor costs. The longer the journey, the higher the cost.
Time of the year
The season and weather in both Detroit and Tampa can impact car shipping prices.
Detroit winters are cold, with moderate snowfall and temperatures not rising above freezing on an average 44 days annually. Summers are warm to hot with temperatures exceeding. Be sure to check your weather app to avoid heavy snowfall during your move.
Tampa's climate generally features hot and humid summers with frequent thunderstorms and dry and mild winters. Tampa seldom feels major effects from tropical storms or hurricanes.
During peak times like summer and the winter holidays, demand for car shipping services increases, leading to higher prices. Shipping your car from Detroit to Tampa during these peak seasons can result in higher costs due to increased demand.
Fuel prices
Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 1,177-mile distance between Detroit and Tampa and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.
Delivery expectations
Being flexible with your delivery dates can sometimes lead to discounts from your auto shipper. However, shipping a car from Detroit to Tampa typically takes between 2 and 8 days. Flexibility in delivery times can save costs, whereas expedited services ensure quicker delivery but at a premium cost.
Detroit to Tampa car shipping companies
We’ve done the research, and these are the best car shipping companies to help transport your vehicle from Detroit to Tampa:
- Best for Accurate Pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best Cross-Country Shipper: Montway Auto Transport
- Best for Quick Pickup: Easy Auto Ship
- Best for Discounts: AmeriFreight Car Transport
- Best for Overall Value: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Marketplace: uShip Car Marketplace
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Comparing Detroit and Tampa vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Detroit: Each area in Detroit may require specific permits or have certain rules for parking the moving truck. So, this means you need to call and check with parking services ahead of time at (313) 224-1610.
- Tampa: Permits are only valid at on-street, unrestricted parking spaces (not to exceed four hours). Not valid at Load/Unload, Freight Zone, No-Park or Handicapped spaces. The vehicle tag number will serve as your permit credential. Permits issued to Federal, State, County and City vehicles may be valid for up to one (1) calendar year at a cost of $156.00 per permit. Permits issued to public utility companies will be valid for a maximum of six (6) months at a cost of $117.00 per permit.
Car insurance requirements
- Detroit: Michigan requires a minimum auto insurance coverage of $50,000/$100,000 for bodily injury and $10,000 for property damage in case of an accident.
- Tampa: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
Vehicle inspections
- Detroit: Michigan does not require vehicle inspections for registration purposes. There is no state mandate for car safety inspections or emissions testing.
- Tampa: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
Driver’s license
- Detroit: Michigan law requires new residents to promptly title and register their vehicles, with no grace period provided. A person is considered a resident if they live in the state and prove their legal presence in the US. To comply with these requirements, new residents should visit a Secretary of State office to obtain a Michigan driver's license, title, and registration as soon as they establish residency.
- Tampa: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Detroit to Tampa?
The cost to ship a car from Detroit, MI to Tampa, FL varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed), the size and weight of the vehicle, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Detroit to Tampa will range from $920 to $1,441.
How long will it take to ship my car from Detroit to Tampa?
It will take approximately 2–8 days to ship your car the 1,177 miles from Detroit to Tampa. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Detroit to Tampa?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Detroit to Tampa. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
