If you find yourself in a situation where you need to get your vehicle from Florida to California, you might consider the idea of driving it yourself. However, there are a lot of things to consider before deciding to hop in the car and drive across the country. Not only will such a long drive put tremendous wear and tear on your car, but it will also put quite a strain on your budget. When you factor in all of the expenses such as gas, food, and lodging, you will soon find that shipping your car can be a cheaper and much more convenient option. Rather than making the grueling trip yourself, an auto transport company can ensure your car arrives quickly and safely at its destination. Reputable auto shipping companies should provide you with a free shipping quote for transporting your car from Florida to California. Keep in mind, however, that the following factors will impact the cost.
Size of the Car
Auto carriers have limited space and capacity. Therefore, the larger the car, the more expensive it will cost to transport. Sedans and compact cars will be cheaper than SUV’s and trucks.
Weight of the Car
The weight of your car can also impact the shipping price. There are transportation guidelines that specify weight limits for carriers. This means that a carrier shipping heavier cars can ship less cars, and might charge a higher price as a result.
Distance and Location
As one might expect, the farther the distance the higher the cost. That said, the exact location of your pick-up and drop off also matters. If your vehicle is being shipped between two major cities on a popular shipping route, the cost would be less than if your vehicle is being shipped to a rural location that is not commonly traveled by a carrier. The price can also be impacted based on door-to-door delivery versus terminal-to-terminal delivery. While door-to-door shipment is more convenient, it also tends to be more expensive.
Type of Carrier
When you decide to ship your car, you will have the choice between open car transport and enclosed car transport. While enclosed transport provides additional protection for your vehicle, this is a more expensive option than open transport. This option is recommended for luxury, antique, or collectible cars.
Flexibility and Seasonality
If you require and expedited delivery, you can expect to pay a higher price. If you are flexible with your shipping dates, you can save yourself some money. The time of year can also impact the price. Expect to pay more during peak months in the summer. Rates can increase as much as $200-$300 per trip. You can expect to find more discounts and lower rates in the offseason.
The average cost to ship a car within the continental Unites States is between $950-$1200. You can expect to pay somewhere in that range, but keep in mind that these factors can impact the final price. Your best bet is to shop around and compare prices. Do be careful, however, if you notice a price that is significantly lower than the rest. This can be a red flag that the company is either not reliable, or they might tack on additional fees and charges at the end. Be sure to read reviews and do your research to find an auto shipping company that is both affordable and reliable.
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