Florida has always been a hotspot for tourism, retirement, and seasonal migration—but in recent years, car shipping to Florida has reached new heights. From snowbirds escaping harsh northern winters to families relocating for work or school, millions of people find themselves needing reliable transport solutions for their vehicles. Whether you’re moving permanently, attending college, or just visiting for the season, learning how to ship a car to Florida the right way can save you time, money, and stress.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process—from choosing a shipping method to understanding costs and timelines. We’ll also compare shipping options, highlight common pitfalls to avoid, and showcase why Ship A Car is the best partner to help you every step of the way.
Florida’s appeal is undeniable. With year-round sunshine, no state income tax, beautiful coastlines, and a relatively low cost of living compared to other major U.S. states, it’s no wonder the Sunshine State continues to attract a diverse range of people from across the country. Whether you’re moving for a season, a new job, or a permanent lifestyle upgrade, having your own vehicle in Florida is not only convenient—it’s often essential.
One of the largest groups choosing to ship a car to Florida each year are snowbirds—residents from colder northern states like New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Illinois who escape the winter months by temporarily relocating to Florida. Rather than enduring a long road trip and subjecting their vehicles to unnecessary wear-and-tear, many opt for the ease and comfort of professional auto transport. This way, they can fly in and have their vehicle waiting for them, ready to explore beaches, golf courses, and warm-weather activities.
Florida is home to several prestigious colleges and universities, such as the University of Florida, Florida State University, University of Miami, and Florida International University. Students from out of state often find themselves in need of personal transportation, especially in cities where public transit is limited. Instead of buying a second car or driving cross-country, many students (or their parents) choose to ship a car to Florida so that they have reliable access to school, work, and social events throughout the semester.
Please refer to our page under “Student Car Shipping” for more details.
Cities like Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville are rapidly growing and offer a range of job opportunities in healthcare, finance, real estate, and technology. As more professionals relocate for new positions or remote-friendly jobs, entire families are also making the move—sometimes with multiple vehicles. Shipping a car, truck, or SUV to Florida makes the transition smoother and ensures the whole family stays mobile from the moment they arrive.
Florida is a top retirement destination thanks to its warm climate, abundance of healthcare facilities, active communities, and tax-friendly policies. Many retirees sell their homes in northern states and head south to start a new chapter. For this demographic, shipping a car is not just a convenience—it’s peace of mind. Seniors benefit from the comfort and safety of having their familiar vehicle transported directly to their new residence without the hassle of a long-distance drive.
Please refer to our page under “Seasonal Car Shipping” for further details.
Rather than putting extra mileage and wear on their vehicles, many people prefer to ship a car to Florida safely and efficiently.
When it comes to how to ship a car to Florida, understanding the most common departure cities can help you better plan your move, estimate transit times, and anticipate pricing. While vehicles are shipped to Florida from every corner of the country, certain metropolitan areas consistently top the list due to seasonal travel patterns, job relocations, and lifestyle changes.
New York remains the single most popular origin for car shipments headed to Florida—and for good reason. Each year, tens of thousands of snowbirds—seasonal travelers from the Northeast—head south for the winter to escape the freezing temperatures, icy roads, and unpredictable weather. Many of them own second homes or rent seasonal residences in Florida cities like Naples, Fort Lauderdale, or Sarasota. Rather than endure the 1,200+ mile drive down I-95, they choose the convenience of professional auto shipping.
Additionally, retirees and part-time residents in New York often find shipping their car to be more cost-effective and safer than driving it themselves. The New York to Florida shipping route is one of the most frequent and reliable, with competitive pricing and flexible scheduling due to the high volume of demand.
Chicago residents are another major group that regularly ships their vehicles to Florida. With harsh winters and heavy snowfall, it’s no surprise that many seasonal travelers from the Midwest look to southern Florida for a climate escape. Popular Florida destinations for Chicagoans include Tampa, Sarasota, and Palm Beach.
Moreover, the economic link between Chicago and Florida continues to grow. Families relocating to Florida suburbs for better work opportunities or a more laid-back lifestyle often need to move more than just household goods—they need to transport their cars, too. The Chicago-to-Florida route is well-served by car carriers, making it a practical and affordable option for both individuals and businesses.
Shipping a car from Los Angeles to Florida is a common move for people undergoing major life transitions. Whether it’s for a job relocation, enrolling in a Florida-based university, or simply trading the Pacific Coast for the Gulf Coast, West Coast residents frequently seek out reliable transport to the Sunshine State.
Given the distance—spanning over 2,700 miles—driving is often not a viable option. It involves days of travel, significant gas and lodging expenses, and wear-and-tear on the vehicle. Shipping a car from California to Florida provides a safe, stress-free alternative for people who value their time, vehicle longevity, and peace of mind.
Los Angeles also contributes a steady stream of luxury, exotic, and classic car shipments to Florida, especially during event seasons like the Miami Auto Show or Barrett-Jackson auctions in Palm Beach. For these types of vehicles, enclosed auto transport is often used to ensure maximum protection.
Not all transport companies are created equal. At Ship A Car, Inc., we’ve spent over a decade perfecting our process. Look for:
- FMCSA licensing and insurance
- Positive customer reviews
- Transparent pricing
- Experienced agents and dispatch coordinators
- Flexible shipping options
- Open transport is the most affordable and widely used method, where your car is shipped on a two-level carrier with other vehicles.
- Enclosed transport offers extra protection from weather and road debris—ideal for luxury, antique, or exotic cars.
You can opt for door-to-door car shipping—our most popular option—or use terminal-to-terminal shipping if you prefer a drop-off point. Door-to-door is more convenient and reduces handling.
Use our auto transport calculator or call (866) 821-4555 for a custom quote. We don’t require upfront payments, and you won’t be charged until a carrier is assigned and pickup is confirmed.
Step 5: Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping
- Remove personal items
- Leave about ¼ tank of gas
- Take photos of your car’s current condition
- Disable toll devices and alarms
- Provide keys to the driver
Car shipping costs depend on several factors:
- Distance
- Type of vehicle
- Shipping method (open or enclosed)
- Time of year (snowbird season may increase demand)
- Fuel prices and carrier availability
Average Cost Ranges:
- New York to Florida: $700–$1,100
- Chicago to Florida: $750–$1,200
- Los Angeles to Florida: $1,100–$1,600
Get an exact rate with our auto transport calculator or by calling our customer service team.
A: While driving might seem cheaper at first glance, consider the hidden costs—fuel, hotel stays, meals, tolls, and time off work. There’s also the risk of road incidents and the wear-and-tear on your vehicle. Shipping is safer, quicker, and often comparable in cost—especially when using a trusted provider like Ship A Car, Inc.
A: Transit time depends on distance and route.
- From New York: ~3–5 days
- From Chicago: ~4–6 days
- From Los Angeles: ~6–9 days
We provide regular updates and tracking, and we’ll give you an estimated delivery window at booking.
A: Technically, no. FMCSA regulations prohibit car carriers from transporting household goods due to liability reasons. However, some carriers allow up to 100 lbs of personal items packed in the trunk or below the window line. Always ask your coordinator before packing anything.
- No upfront payment required
- A+ BBB rating and over a decade of experience
- Fully licensed and insured carriers
- Dedicated coordinator for every shipment
- Nationwide coverage—including Alaska and Hawaii
- Real-time updates and expert support
We’ve shipped over 50,000 vehicles and counting—everything from family sedans to classic convertibles and cross-country RVs.
When it comes to how to ship a car to Florida, the process doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With Ship A Car, Inc., you gain a partner that offers industry-leading service, transparency, and peace of mind. Whether you’re relocating, vacationing, or buying a vehicle online, we’re here to make the journey smooth from start to finish.
Call us today at (866) 821-4555 or use our online auto transport calculator for a quick, no-obligation quote. Let us help you ship your car to Florida the safe, smart, and stress-free way. Your vehicle is in good hands with Ship A Car, Inc.
It’s best to book at least 1–2 weeks in advance, especially during snowbird season (October–April). We also offer expedited options if you need faster service.
Yes. All carriers we work with are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. A Bill of Lading documents the vehicle’s condition upon pickup and delivery.
You can assign a representative (friend, family, or neighbor) to handle the exchange on your behalf. They must be at least 18 and have proper ID.
Absolutely. While full GPS tracking is available on request, your assigned coordinator will provide regular updates by phone, email, or text.
Yes, we frequently work with dealerships, auctions, and online car sellers to deliver vehicles directly to buyers across the country—including Florida.
*All data and car shipping rates found in this article are accurate at time of publication and subject to change.
