How Much Does it Cost to Ship a Car from California to Florida?

If you are relocating from California to Florida, you might be wondering how to get your car from one state to the other. While driving may seem like a plausible option at first, it is important to consider the toll this would take on you and your vehicle. A cross-country trip puts an enormous amount of wear and tear on your vehicle, not to mention your budget. When you consider the cost of gas, meals, and lodging, you will find that your expenses quickly add up. A cross-country drive is also exhausting and time consuming for you. When you consider all of these factors you might find that auto shipment is cheaper and more convenient.  Here are a few factors that can determine the cost to ship your car from California to Florida. 

Distance and Route

One of the most important factors in the cost of shipping a car is the actual distance you will be shipping it. It is difficult to get a quote from one state to another without including the actual address of pick-up and drop-off. Another factor to consider is the route that your carrier will be taking to transport your car. For instance, traveling between major cities will generally be cheaper than traveling to a rural destination. 

Type of Vehicle

Another determining factor is the size and weight of your vehicle. Due to capacity limitations on carriers, larger cars cost more to transport. 

Shipping Time and Seasonality

How quickly you need your car can also affect your shipment cost. If you are flexible on delivery dates, you can usually get a better price. If you require any kind of expedited delivery, your cost will increase. Your cost will also go up in the summer because this is peak season. The cheapest time to ship your car is during the winter months. 

Shipping Method

There are a few options to consider when shipping your car. The first is terminal-to-terminal or door-to-door shipping. Although door-to-door service is more convenient, it is also more expensive. Your other option is to choose whether you want an open or enclosed carrier to transport your car. Open carriers are more common and less expensive than enclosed transport. 

When you decide to ship your car from California to Florida, you want to choose a shipping expert that is both reliable and affordable. Take the time to get quotes from different companies and be sure to compare their reviews and credentials. Be sure to inquire about additional fees, surcharges, and any other hidden costs that could affect your price. Also, don’t fall into the trap of going with the lowest price. If a company’s price is significantly lower than the others, that’s usually a bad sign. Sometimes this is a way to get customers to book a shipment and then the company either tacks on fees or they aren’t a reputable company.