Moving a car from Florida to California is ideal when you are trying to ship across the state. Removing the hassle of driving from one state to the other is a big plus. However, one consideration that you need to plan for is the cost of shipping a car.
Within this article, we cover in detail car shipping costs for this route, factors that affect the price, how it’s typically structured, tips and recommendations, and personal stories from customers. This compilation should help paint a complete image of the potential expenses along with where and how to source the best service.
What are the Factors that Affect Florida to California Car Shipping Prices?
As with other services, shipping a car from state to state does not have a flat price. There are certain factors which when taken into consideration determines the money to be spent on shipping a car from California to Florida:
- Distance and Route
The distance between these two places is around 2,700 to 3,000 miles. This distance solely depends on the location where the pick-up and the drop-off takes place. With longer distances, comes an increase in fuel costs, driver fees, and further tolls. These are all factors which increases the shipping price. Moreover, some routes could be more costly due to traffic congestion or fewer carriers being available.
- Mode of Transport (Open vs. Enclosed)
When it comes to vehicle transport, there are two primary choices available:
Open Transport: Cars are placed on the trailer that is open on the sides, thus exposing them to the weather conditions outside. This is the most affordable option available and is most often used for ordinary vehicles.
Enclosed Transport: Cars are secured inside an enclosed truck. This protects the car from being damaged by debris, rough weather and the road. This method of transport is preferable for exquisite, vintage, or other high worth automobiles. It does cost more than other options though with a 30 to 50 percent increase.
- Type and Dimension of Vehicle
Naturally, the type of vehicle being transported directly affects cost to ship a car to Florida from California. For example, pickup trucks, SUVs, and vans cost more to ship than a sedan due to weight disparities. Shipping is priced according to weight and volume.
- Seasonal Effects On Pricing
Demand and pricing is affected on a seasonal basis. For instance, summertime is usually peak season and so is the duration right before major holidays. Thus these periods are synonymous with heightened prices. During off-peak times it is easy to Book as well as save money.
- Methods of Pick Up and Delivery
There are two main methods of delivery:
Door-to-Door Service: More convenient but slightly pricier, this option entails your vehicle being picked up from and dropped off to as close to your specified locations as possible.
Terminal-to-Terminal Service: This option saves costs, but involves travel time from your end, as you are required to drop off and pick up the vehicle from specific shipping terminals.
Enjoying a combination of these variables can offer all the benefits associated with lowered shipping costs and enhanced services.
General Pricing for shipping a vehicle to California from Florida
As an average, open car transport costs between $1,050 to $1,500 for an regular automobile. Whereas, enclosed car transport costs $1,400 – 2,000.
Take a look at this general structure according to the type of vehicle and the transportation :
| Types of Vehicle | Cost Using Open Transport | Cost Using Enclosed Transport |
|---|
| Sedan | $1,050–$1,300 | $1,400–$1,750 |
| SUV | $1,200–$1,500 | $1,600–$2,000 |
| Truck | $1,300–$1,600 | $1,700–$2,100 |
Remember these are estimates. Pricing could be different based on demand, changes in fuel prices, and other unforeseen circumstances.
Ways To Rent Car Shipping Services That Are Economical Yet Trustworthy
Car shipping is a great expenditure but it’s possible to lessen the impact without compromising the quality. Here are some of the tactics you can employ.
- Look At Quotes From Different Service Providers
Get different quotes from reputed car shipping service provider to compare their prices and services. They should have a reliable tool that allows you to get estimates easily for your evaluations.
- Book Quotation Early
If you book a quotation at a last minute there is a high chance its cost will increase because of procrastination! Booking early ensures that services are available and most of the time guarantees that a better price is available.
- Choose Open Transport
Open transport will save you money especially if your vehicle does not need special consideration.
- Be Flexible Regarding The Date
Allowing changes to your pick-up and delivery dates enables carriers to adjust the routes they take which reduces the overall cost.
- Discounts: It Pays To Ask
Some car shipping services provide discounts when bringing a vehicle for the first time, or if a person belongs to the military, or if they don’t mind the timing. There is no harm in asking.
Case Studies: Testimonials as They Are
By way of examples, here are several stories from people or companies that relocated their vehicles from Florida to California using dependable services.
Lisa from Miami: “I wanted to ship a small sedan because I was relocating to Los Angeles. I went for open transport services and within a week, I almost got the car at $1,200. Everything was orderly, and I was briefed thorough by the customer care department”.
Testimony from Safe Car Hauling, Inc.: “We have so many satisfied customers who have transported cars with us from one side of the country to the other. One of our last clients wanted their SUV from Tampa to San Diego. We hired out an enclosed trailer at $1,800 for an ensured safe, covered car transit. They were happy to receive such level of service and professionalism.”
The customer’s stories will guide you in selecting the car transport service.
Suggestions from Safe Car Hauling Inc.
Choosing the right company is very important when shipping a car. This is what Safe Car Hauling Inc. has to say:
- Clarity in Cost: Make sure the company offers pricing without any extra or hidden charges.
- Communication: Look for a provider who updates you on the vehicle’s status on a regular basis.
- Trustworthiness: Read reviews and ratings to make sure the company can be trusted.
Pre-Planning for Long Distance Moves
It does not have to be so difficult or so costly to move your car from Florida to California. Moving your vehicle could be simple if you know the factors that affect the shipping costs, take advantage of cheaper alternatives, and find a reliable service.
Make your initial steps by researching on reputable companies like Safe Car Hauling Inc. and ask for estimates which you will use to compare the offered services. By being proactive and quality conscious, you will get your vehicle shipping done with ease.
For more tips or begin your search, try our proposed car shipping service or express your opinion in the comment section. Enjoy your move!