Best Tampa Car Shipping Companies (2024 Cost Guide)
Quick answer: When it comes to customer ratings, costs, and available services, SGT Auto Transport is the best car shipping company in Tampa, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.
|
|
|
Need an auto transport company in a different city? Check out the Florida car shipping page.
Why trust moveBuddha?
Our mission at moveBuddha is to make every aspect of moving easier, and we use our firsthand knowledge of the industry to simplify and streamline what can often be a stressful process.
Since moveBuddha’s foundation in 2015, our team has talked to thousands of consumers and analyzed 4,400 moving companies and 2,400 car shippers across the U.S. We’ve collected detailed car shipping experiences through our Better Moves project, and we routinely dig deep into online consumer reviews to identify the most common complaints and compliments companies receive.
We created our own system for analyzing and rating car shipping companies on important factors like pricing, variety of services, customer feedback, and availability. Our experienced editorial team fully fact-checks all content to ensure it is accurate, informative, and up-to-date.
Best car shipping companies in Tampa
Whether you’re shipping your car locally or out of Florida, these are the best auto transporting companies available in Tampa.
- SGT Auto Transport
- Easy Auto Ship
- Sherpa Auto Transport
- AmeriFreight
- Ship A Car Direct
- Transglobal Auto Logistics
- Car Shipping Carriers
- Simple Car Shipping
- Auto Driveaway
- Vehicle Transport Services
Easy Auto Ship
https://diytransport.com
Founded in 2012, Easy Auto Ship has built a stellar reputation in the industry, with excellent ratings on the BBB, Google reviews, and other consumer feedback sites. The company ships cars, SUVS, RVs, boats, and heavy equipment nationwide and provides guaranteed pickup dates and expedited shipping. If your shipment is delayed for more than 14 days, Easy Auto will reimburse you for the cost of a rental car.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free contingency cargo insurance
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- Guaranteed pick-up and delivery available
- Military, Senior, and Student discounts
- Free car wash on delivery
- Free rental car should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
Ship A Car Direct
https://shipacardirect.com
Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- Expedited Shipping Available
- Pay by credit card available
- Ships all vehicle types
- Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
- $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
- Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days
Cons
- Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
- Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
- No international shipping
- Website lacks information
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
SGT Auto Transport
https://sgtautotransport.com
SGT Auto Transport is a top-rated long-distance vehicle shipper available in every state except Alaska. SGT Auto offers open or enclosed carriers for cars and motorcycles, and provides door-to-door service standard in the contiguous U.S. Get a free quote easily and quickly online, and be sure to ask about SGT’s price-matching guarantee and discounts for military members, students, and senior citizens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Open and enclosed auto transport options available
- Car shipping to Hawaii
- Motorcycle shipping available
- Free cancellation
- Full insurance coverage included in the price
- Nothing to pay up front
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- Limited international shipping
- Doesn’t ship RVs
- No digital tracking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Long-distance and international shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
AmeriFreight
https://www.amerifreight.net
AmeriFreight Car Transport is a true auto shipping broker. They work with a network of licensed, insured, and verified auto carriers to try and find you the best price to ship your car. AmeriFreight acts as an intermediary between you and the car carrier to ensure any problems are quickly resolved. If you’re looking for the most affordable option to ship your car, definitely check out AmeriFreight.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Competitive pricing
- Can handle last minute car shipments
- Offer guaranteed and expedited shipments
- Offer AFta PLAN gap insurance coverage
- Boat, trailer, RV, and motorcycle shipping available
Cons
- Must contact to receive a formal quote
- Require deposit at booking
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Hawaii and Alaska shipping
- Insured shipping
- Online instant pricing
- Open and enclosed transport
Sherpa Auto Transport
https://www.sherpaautotransport.com
Sherpa Auto Transport is known for providing competitive pricing and strong communication throughout the car shipping process. Available in the Lower 48, Sherpa guarantees you won’t pay more than you are quoted, so you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees or other price changes. The company ships standard passenger cars, trucks, and SUVS, and can provide expedited transport, if needed. They’ll even give you a free car wash if your vehicle arrives at its destination dirty.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
- Pay by credit card available
- Free car wash at delivery
- No deposit upfront to schedule
- $100k in cargo insurance
- Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
- Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
Cons
- Online instant quote not available
- Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
- No international shipping
- No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Insured shipping
- Open and enclosed transport
Transglobal Auto Logistics
Transglobal Auto Logistics (DOT: 1119412) stands out in the car shipping industry with a comprehensive array of services, including options for inoperable car transport, enclosed transport, and specialized vehicle types such as ATVs, electric vehicles, and RVs.
The company is fully insured and offers military discounts, although some customers might find the lack of a damage-free guarantee and storage solutions to be a downside. They also embrace modern conveniences with payment options like credit cards and detailed inspection reports to ensure customer satisfaction.
Transglobal Auto Logistics boasts an A+ rating with the BBB; however, they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Heavy Equipment Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Car Shipping Carriers
One downside customers might find is the lack of trailer shipping services. Despite this, Car Shipping Carriers excels in providing fully insured shipments, damage-free guarantees, and storage solutions.
Services Offered
- ATV Shipping
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Simple Car Shipping
Simple Car Shipping (DOT: 3253756) offers a range of services including enclosed transport, expedited delivery, and international shipping. Customers will appreciate the company’s capability to handle RV, boat, and motorcycle shipping, as well as classic car shipping.
A potential downside is that Simple Car Shipping does not offer services for transporting inoperable cars, which may be a consideration for some customers. Despite these limitations, the company has earned a reputable A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau but has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Enclosed Transport
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Expedited Delivery
- Pay by Credit Card
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Boat Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Classic Car Shipping
Auto Driveaway
Auto Driveaway (DOT: 1335807) is a reputable car shipping company offering a variety of services to meet different transportation needs. They cater to interstate and international shipping, provide fully insured transport, and offer enclosed transport for added protection. Customers can also benefit from expedited delivery and shipment tracking. Additionally, they accept payment by credit card for convenience.
Auto Driveaway has garnered positive ratings, achieving a Google rating of 3.7 and an A+ rating from the BBB. However, potential customers should note that the company does not provide shipping for inoperable cars or offer a damage-free guarantee, which could be a downside for those needing these specific services. Furthermore, they do not offer any discounts such as military, student, or senior discounts.
Services Offered
- Fully Insured
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Electric Vehicle Shipping
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Storage Solutions
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Trailer Shipping
- Interstate
- Detailed Inspection Reports
Vehicle Transport Services
Vehicle Transport Services (DOT: 2249744) offers a comprehensive range of transport solutions, including enclosed transport, inoperable car transport, and international shipping. The company upholds high standards with fully insured services, damage-free guarantees, and detailed inspection reports, ensuring peace of mind for their customers.
Additional benefits include military discounts and expedited delivery options, with flexible payment methods such as credit card and cash accepted. However, the company does not offer electric vehicle shipping or ATV shipping, which might be a limitation for some customers.
The company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.
Services Offered
- Damage Free Guarantee
- Fully Insured
- Inoperable Car Transport
- Enclosed Transport
- Multi Car Transport
- Military Discount
- International Shipping
- Open Transport
- Guaranteed Delivery
- Storage Solutions
- Deposit Required
- Expedited Delivery
- Shipment Tracking
- Pay by Credit Card
- Pay by Money Order
- Pay by Cash
- Interstate
- RV Shipping
- Motorcycle Shipping
- Terminal to Terminal Delivery
- Classic Car Shipping
- Detailed Inspection Reports
MoveBuddha’s car shipping company reviews
For more in-depth information on each company, see our full company reviews:- A-1 Auto Transport Review
- All America Auto Transport Review
- American Auto Shipping Review
- Amerifreight Review
- Diesel Auto Express Review
- Easy Auto Ship Review
- Guardian Auto Transport Review
- Montway Auto Transport Review
- Mr. Car Shipper Review
- Nationwide Auto Transportation Review
- Nationwide United Auto Transport Review
- Nexus Auto Review
- Roadrunner Auto Review
- Sakaem Logistics Review
- SGT Auto Transport Review
- Sherpa Auto Transport Review
- Ship-a-Car Direct Review
- Shiply Review
- United Routes Review
- Victory Worldwide Transportation Review
Average car shipping costs in Tampa
The average cost to ship a car from Tampa to another state typically starts around $1,200, varying based on several local factors.
Below are some example rates for transporting a vehicle from Tampa, Florida, to a different state:
| Route | Cost |
|---|---|
| Florida to North Carolina | $902 – $1,324 |
| Florida to New York | $1,165 – $1,684 |
| Florida to Pennsylvania | $1,177 – $1,719 |
| Florida to California | $1,788 – $2,947 |
| Florida to Georgia | $727 – $946 |
| Michigan to Florida | $1,246 – $1,978 |
| Illinois to Florida | $1,132 – $1,667 |
| Ohio to Florida | $1,050 – $1,729 |
| Arizona to Florida | $1,664 – $2,536 |
| Texas to Florida | $1,323 – $1,843 |
Factors influencing car shipping costs from Tampa
- The distance of your move: Transporting your vehicle within Tampa or to another city in Florida can be more cost-effective than long-distance shipments across states.
- Urban vs. suburban locations: Shipping costs might differ if you’re moving the car from the bustling downtown of Tampa to a more suburban area.
- Type and condition of your vehicle: Compact cars generally cost less to transport than larger vehicles. Classic or luxury cars from Tampa might require special handling, increasing the price.
- Available shipping options in Tampa: You can choose from standard open-air transport to more secure enclosed shipping. While the former is more economical, the latter is advised for protecting against Tampa’s specific climate challenges.
- Fuel costs: Current local fuel prices can directly impact the cost of shipping. Keep an eye on Tampa’s fuel prices, especially if planning a long haul.
- Delivery urgency: Need your car quickly? Expedited or guaranteed delivery services from Tampa come at a premium.
- Seasonal factors and weather conditions: Tampa’s warm, humid climate and occasional severe weather necessitate extra precautions, potentially increasing car shipping costs. Seasonal storm risks may also lead to higher demand and prices during peak times.
Tips for choosing the right Tampa, FL, car shipping company
- Compare prices. In Tampa, compare costs with a critical eye. Look for transparent pricing to avoid unexpected fees, ensuring that competitive rates do not undermine service quality. As a quick note, you should expect to pay around $1,100 in Florida.
- Review insurance and safety in Tampa. Choose Tampa companies with comprehensive insurance coverage and a strong focus on safety. Confirm their dedication to protecting your vehicle throughout its journey.
- Read customer reviews. Reading customer reviews in Tampa is critical because it helps identify reliable car shipping companies with a good track record and ensures a smooth, hassle-free moving experience.
- Research thoroughly. Thorough research in Tampa is critical for choosing the right car shipping company to avoid scams because it ensures the company is reputable and trustworthy, avoiding potential financial losses and stress. It verifies licenses, reviews, and customer feedback, safeguarding your vehicle.
- Verify credentials. Ensure each company’s legitimacy by checking their licensing, insurance, and registration status. In Tampa, this step is crucial for safeguarding your vehicle and investment.
- Compare services and costs. Analyze the range of services offered by different companies in Tampa. Balance service quality against pricing, and be wary of unusually low rates that might indicate hidden costs or poor service.
- Ask about insurance coverage. Inquire specifically about the insurance coverage provided by companies in Tampa. Understand the extent of coverage and the process for making claims in case of damage during transit.
- Understand delivery timelines. Clarify expected pickup and delivery times. Companies in Tampa should offer realistic timelines and communicate any potential delays promptly.
- Check for customization options. Consider companies in Tampa that offer customizable options, such as door-to-door delivery or specific handling requirements for your vehicle.
- Seek personal recommendations. If possible, get personal referrals from friends or family in Tampa who have experience with car shipping companies. Firsthand experiences can be invaluable in making your decision.
FAQ
Can I track my vehicle’s shipment in real time in Tampa?
Yes, many car shipping companies in Tampa, Florida, offer real-time tracking services. Customers can often track their vehicle’s journey through the company’s website or a mobile app. You can see when your vehicle leaves Tampa, the estimated time of arrival, and any delays that might occur during transit.
What are the most efficient routes for shipping cars out of Tampa?
Interstate 4 provides efficient access eastward. Interstate 75 connects north and south. Interstate 275 offers direct routes to nearby regions. These interstates streamline shipping logistics.
How do I check the license status of a car shipping company?
You can check the license status of any Tampa car shipping company by looking up their motor carrier (MC) number on the USDOT’s website.
Do I need to have insurance or an inspection to ship my car out of Tampa?
If you’ve got an antique vehicle or a car worth a lot of money, some companies may require proof of insurance before taking your vehicle out of Tampa. While you probably won’t need an inspection before shipping your car out of Florida, it’s important to check local regulations once it’s in its final destination.
Take Florida regulations as an example. Florida, unlike many states, doesn’t require vehicle owners to have regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
More car shipping resources
If you’re shipping your car out of a different city in Florida, these resources should help:
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
