($828) Cost to ship a car from Tampa, FL to Pittsburgh, PA

Quick answer: The average cost to ship a car 1,024 miles from Tampa, Florida, to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, ranges from $828 to $1,325. Costs vary depending on factors like the type of vehicle, transport method, and time of year. For a more detailed quote, use our car shipping cost calculator.

moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
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  • Refundable deposit
  • Discounts available
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
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  • Price lock promise
  • Free car wash
moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.4 / 5
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  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Pittsburgh to Tampa car shipping guide.

The best Tampa to Pittsburgh car shipping companies

Based on our research, here are the best car shipping companies for getting your car from Tampa to Pittsburgh:

Best for Real-Time Tracking
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.7 / 5
At A Glance
  • GPS tracking
  • Instant online quotes
  • Economy option
  • Ships nationwide
  • Easy online scheduling
read our full Nexus Auto Transport review
Best for accurate pricing
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.5 / 5
At A Glance
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Pay by credit card
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No upfront deposit
  • Door-to-door service
read our full Sherpa Auto Transport review
Best for Exact Pickup Dates
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4.9 / 5
At A Glance
  • No hidden fees
  • Free online quotes
  • Door-to-door service in 48 states
  • Exact pickup dates
  • Ships to & from HI
read our full SGT Auto Transport review
Best Insurance Coverage
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moveBuddha logo iconrating starstarstarstarstar 4 / 5
At A Glance
  • Damage-free guarantee
  • $500 damage or loss coverage
  • No deposit
  • Rental car assistance
  • Inoperable car shipping
read our full Ship A Car Direct review

Top local car shippers in Tampa

Prefer to keep it local? Here are the top car transport companies based in Tampa, FL:

  1. Car Shipping Carriers Orlando: 3.62 out of 5 stars
  2. Transglobal Auto Logistics: 3.56 out of 5 stars
  3. Simple Car Shipping: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  4. Car Shipping Carriers: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  5. Vehicle Transport Services: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Car Shipping Carriers Orlando

1800 Pembrook Dr # 300, Orlando, FL 32810 US

starstarstarstarstar3.62 / 5.0
Get a Quote (866) 744-2540

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Classic cars
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Transglobal Auto Logistics

13330 W Colonial Dr # 130, Winter Garden, FL 34787 US

starstarstarstarstar3.56 / 5.0
Get a Quote (972) 559-3202

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • ATVs
  • Trailers
  • Motorcycles
  • Heavy equipment
  • Boats
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Alternative Business Names

  • Transcar Auto Shippers USA, Inc.
  • Global Auto Logistics, LLC
  • Trans Global Auto Logistics, Inc.

Simple Car Shipping

7901 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise Drew and his team at Simple Car Shipping for their exceptional service, effective communication, and ability to manage tight timelines. Many highlight their professionalism and stress-free experience during the car shipping process. However, some customers reported issues with communication from the transport companies used, particularly regarding updates on their vehicle's status.

Get a Quote (727) 256-7849

Services Offered

  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Boats

Additional Information

Car Shipping Carriers

4030 S West Shore Blvd, Tampa, FL 33611 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0

Customers consistently praise the company for its professionalism, timely delivery, and excellent customer service. However, there are no significant negative comments reported, indicating overall satisfaction with the service provided.

Get a Quote (866) 744-2540

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • ATVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Electric vehicles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

Vehicle Transport Services

4201 W Watrous Ave, Tampa, FL 33629 US

starstarstarstarstar3.5 / 5.0
Get a Quote (866) 700-1840

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open transport
  • Enclosed transport
  • Interstate shipping
  • International shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Shipment tracking
  • Expedited delivery
  • Multi-car transport
  • Detailed inspection reports
  • Storage solutions
  • Classic cars
  • RVs
  • Motorcycles
  • Inoperable cars

Discounts

  • Military

Additional Information

  • Pay by money order
  • Pay by cash
  • Pay by credit card
  • Deposit Required
  • DOT #: 2249744

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.

Car shipping alternatives from FL to PA

Getting your car from Tampa to Pittsburgh can be done in a few different ways. Here’s a breakdown of your top car shipping options that highlights their advantages and drawbacks.

Coordinate with your movers

When relocating from Tampa to Pittsburgh, most of the top-rated moving companies can bundle auto transport into your move by partnering with national car shippers. The trade-off is convenience versus flexibility, since you’ll be tied to their carrier of choice and rates.

Drive your car

When deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, it’s important to weigh both sides. Driving the 1,024 miles from Tampa to Pittsburgh can save money and even turn into a memorable trip. On the flip side, the extra miles mean more vehicle wear and the chance of running into bad weather or hazards on the road.

Use a driving service

If cost isn’t your biggest concern, you might consider hiring someone to drive your car from Florida to Pennsylvania. That said, you’ll want a driver you can rely on to handle the trip from Tampa to Pittsburgh carefully. Just remember—this option still puts added miles on your car.

Ship your car via train

Rail shipping offers a cost-effective and secure way to move your car to Pittsburgh, and it’s particularly practical if your household items are also traveling by train. In fact, it’s the cheapest shipping option for vehicles. Just be aware that this approach has limited service locations and takes more time than other transport methods.

Factors affecting Tampa to Pittsburgh car shipping costs

The price to ship your car from Tampa to Pittsburgh can vary. Here are the main factors that determine the cost:

Transport method

When shipping your car from Tampa to Pittsburgh, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.

Open carriers from Tampa are generally the most affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection for high-end or classic vehicles. Not sure which is best for your move to Pittsburgh? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.

Vehicle size and type

Vehicle size plays a major role in determining your shipping costs from Tampa. Larger models add both bulk and weight to the trailer, raising the overall expense. So, moving a full-size SUV to Pittsburgh will be more expensive than shipping a compact vehicle.

Distance and route

Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 1,024 miles from Tampa to Pittsburgh will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Florida.

Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.

The time of the year

Both seasonal trends and local weather in Tampa and Pittsburgh can influence what you’ll pay for car shipping.

Tampa's climate generally features hot and humid summers with frequent thunderstorms and dry and mild winters. Tampa seldom feels major effects from tropical storms or hurricanes.

Pittsburgh summers are hot and winters are moderately cold with wide variations in temperature. Despite this, it has one of the most pleasant summer climates between medium and large cities in the U.S

High-demand periods such as summer and the winter holidays often drive up prices. If you plan to ship your car from Tampa to Pittsburgh during these busy times, expect higher costs due to increased demand.

Fuel prices

Fuel price fluctuations can greatly influence transport costs. This is a critical factor given the 1,024-mile distance between Tampa and Pittsburgh and the varying fuel prices across different regions. When fuel prices are high, shipping costs will rise accordingly.

Delivery expectations

Some carriers provide shipping discounts if you’re flexible on delivery dates. The average transport time from Tampa to Pittsburgh is two to eight days. Being flexible can cut costs, but expedited options guarantee faster delivery at a premium.

Comparing Tampa and Pittsburgh vehicle regulations

Parking permits

  • Tampa: Permits are only valid at on-street, unrestricted parking spaces (not to exceed four hours). Not valid at Load/Unload, Freight Zone, No-Park or Handicapped spaces. The vehicle tag number will serve as your permit credential. Permits issued to Federal, State, County and City vehicles may be valid for up to one (1) calendar year at a cost of $156.00 per permit. Permits issued to public utility companies will be valid for a maximum of six (6) months at a cost of $117.00 per permit.
  • Pittsburgh: Application Fee: $0.00 Permit Fee: For moving truck: $25.00 per truck for two (2) days maximum For moving container: $75.00 per week for two (2) week maximum

Car insurance requirements

  • Tampa: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
  • Pittsburgh: When relocating to Pennsylvania, ensure compliance with state regulations by obtaining car insurance with minimum liability coverage: $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident. Consider enhancing your coverage with options like collision and comprehensive coverage. It's crucial to carry proof of insurance in your vehicle at all times.

Vehicle inspections

  • Tampa: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
  • Pittsburgh: If you are moving to Pennsylvania and bringing a vehicle with you, you will need to have it inspected within 10 days of establishing residency. This includes safety and emission test. You can find a list of inspection stations on the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation website or by searching for "vehicle inspection near me". It's a good idea to schedule an appointment in advance and bring your vehicle registration and proof of insurance.

Driver’s license

  • Tampa: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
  • Pittsburgh: When moving to Pennsylvania, you will need to obtain a Pennsylvania driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and pass a written test, a vision test and a road test. You may also be required to surrender your out-of-state license.

FAQ

How much does it cost to ship a car from Tampa to Pittsburgh?

The cost to ship a car from Tampa, FL to Pittsburgh, PA varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Tampa to Pittsburgh will range from $828 to $1,325.

How long will it take to ship my car from Tampa to Pittsburgh?

It will take approximately two to eight days to ship your car the 1,024 miles from Tampa to Pittsburgh. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.

What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Tampa to Pittsburgh?

An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Tampa to Pittsburgh. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.

Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Tampa to Pittsburgh?

It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Tampa to Pittsburgh than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 1,024-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.

We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.

Helpful Tampa resources