Ship a Car to Florida – Tips, Tricks, and Shipping Hacks
Transporting a vehicle to the Sunshine State might seem like a daunting task, but with a little know-how, it can actually be a breeze. If you plan to ship a car to Florida, know that there are smart ways to make the process simpler and more affordable. From timing your shipment just right to choosing the best transport method, there are plenty of strategies that can save you both time and money.
By choosing the best transport option, timing your shipment to avoid peak seasons, and preparing your vehicle properly, you can save both time and money. On top of that, understanding Florida’s road conditions, tolls, and unique driving challenges will help ensure your four-wheeler arrives safely and ready to hit the road.
Why Is It a Good Idea to Ship Your Car to FL?
Shipping a car to the Sunshine State is a smart decision. According to Statista, Florida has one of the highest numbers of vehicle registrations in the US. In 2021, California was the only country with a higher number of registered vehicles.
Additionally, with approximately 275,000 total lane miles, it’s among the top ten most connected states in the country. That means you, as a newcomer, will easily navigate all the cities and landscapes this state has to offer. Remember – you’ve chosen to organize a move to one of the best states for car enthusiasts. Therefore, when relocating to a new home in Florida, think of transporting your car there as a necessity rather than a luxury.
How to Move Your Vehicle to the Sunshine State?
The idea of a road trip to FL might sound appealing, especially with sunny beaches waiting at the end of the journey. However, hiring a reliable car shipping company, such as Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving, has proven to be a much better choice for many. Here’s why:
Saving Time and Energy
Driving long distances can be exhausting. If you’re planning a cross-country drive to the Sunshine State, you’re looking at hundreds or even thousands of miles on the road. It can take anywhere from two days to a full week, depending on where you’re coming from. That’s a lot of time spent behind the wheel, dealing with traffic, bathroom breaks, and rest stops.
Avoiding Wear and Tear on Your Vehicle
Long-distance drives can put significant wear and tear on your vehicle, especially if it’s not a newer model. By shipping your automobile to FL, you can avoid adding unnecessary miles to the odometer, which can help preserve the value of your vehicle. Plus, long drives can also lead to potential breakdowns, flat tires, or other mechanical issues that could ruin the trip.
It Can Be Cheaper Than Driving
At first glance, getting car shipping services might seem more expensive than driving. Still, when you break down the costs, shipping often makes financial sense. If you’re driving, you’ll need to factor in fuel, food, accommodations, and possible vehicle maintenance along the way.
Minimizing Stress
Long drives can be stressful, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the route, facing bad weather, or dealing with heavy traffic. Not to mention, fatigue can become a serious issue when driving long distances. Auto transport to Florida allows you to avoid the stress of a marathon drive and the potential dangers of being on the road for extended periods. Instead, you can relax and fly to your destination while a reliable auto transport company takes care of your four-wheeler.
How to Ship a Car to Florida – And When?
Timing is everything when it comes to transporting your four-wheeler to the Sunshine State. If you’re relocating in winter, note that the winter rush can make auto transport to FL more expensive and slow. This is when the snowbird migration is in full swing, with thousands of retirees and seasonal residents heading south to escape the cold. During this time, shipping demand spikes, and so do the posts.
Summer months are also highly busy for auto transport and long-distance moving services since it’s the peak of relocation season. Therefore, if you have the freedom to choose, avoid moving in the summer, as well. Fall and spring are, in this case, your best bet for avoiding the rush and saving on relocation costs.
Choose the Transportation Option Most Suitable for Your Situation
The two most popular shipping methods are open and enclosed transport, and each comes with its own set of pros, cons, and price tags. Understanding these options will help you make the right choice for your car and your relocation budget.
Open transport is by far the most common and budget-friendly option for transporting a vehicle from one state to another. Most of the vehicles shipped in the US are transported on open carriers. Open transport is ideal for standard cars, trucks, and SUVs that don’t require extra protection.
On the other hand, enclosed auto transport offers a higher level of protection by transporting vehicles in a fully enclosed trailer. This option is typically reserved for luxury or classic vehicle transportation. It’s most suitable for high-value cars that need to stay shielded from weather and potential damage. Enclosed shipping, however, is pricier. Still, the extra cost can be worth the peace of mind if you keep in mind Florida’s unpredictable weather.
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Read moreShipping Methods That Make Sense for Florida
When relocating, you’ll also need to choose between door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal transport. The first option is more convenient. As the name suggests, the automobile is picked up from your specified location (often your home or another address of your choice) and delivered directly to your destination in FL. This method is popular because it saves you from having to drive to a terminal for drop-off or pickup.
While door-to-door is more convenient, it’s also typically more expensive than terminal-to-terminal transport. The extra cost covers the convenience of having long-distance movers deliver your four-wheeler directly to you, but for many, it’s worth the time and hassle saved. Terminal-to-terminal shipping, on the other hand, requires you to drop your four-wheeler off at a designated terminal and pick it up from a terminal near your destination in FL.
Navigating the Paperwork Process
Shipping your car to another state involves more than just booking a transport service. It requires some upfront preparation and paperwork to ensure a smooth, hassle-free experience. Before it arrives in FL, for example, you’ll need to make sure your important papers are in order to avoid headaches later on.
Florida’s DMV is known for being efficient, but even then, many registrations get delayed due to incomplete or incorrect documentation. If you’re planning to stay in the Sunshine State long-term, you’ll need to register your automobile within 30 days of moving. The Florida DMV requires your out-of-state title and a valid ID to start the process.
Additionally, the law in this state requires you to have FL auto insurance before registering your vehicle. Out-of-state insurance won’t cut it, so make sure to switch your coverage before cross-country movers deliver your vehicle. It’s a common relocation mistake for new residents to wait until after the vehicle is delivered, which can result in extra fees and delays in getting your ride on the road.
To avoid any unnecessary trips to the DMV, double-check all your paperwork before shipping. If possible, start the registration process online and call ahead to confirm the documents you need to bring. This small step can save you hours of frustration and plenty of relocation stress once your four-wheeler arrives.
Prepping Your Car – The Ultimate Checklist Before Shipping
Preparing your car for shipping is just as important as getting the paperwork right. To make sure your automobile is ready for cross-country moving, make sure the following tasks become a part of your to-do list:
- Clean your four-wheeler inside and out – it helps you identify any existing scratches or dents. It’s easier to spot new damage after transportation when you start with a clean slate;
- Remove all personal items – professionals typically don’t allow personal items to be left inside the vehicle for safety and liability reasons. Therefore, pack these items with the rest of your belongings and get packing services to transport them safely and efficiently.
- Check tire pressure – properly inflated tires help reduce the risk of damage during loading and unloading;
- Disable alarms and toll transponders – so alarm systems don’t go off during transit, they must be disabled. Also, remove toll transponders. If left in place, they might rack up charges as the automobile passes through tolls;
- Check for leaks and battery health – most auto transport companies in Florida won’t transport an automobile with serious leaks, and you don’t want the battery to die while the car’s en route;
- Document your car’s condition – take photos as proof in case any new damage occurs during transport;
- Fuel up (but not too much) – keep your fuel level at around a quarter tank. This is enough to drive on and off the trailer but doesn’t add unnecessary weight;
- Schedule a quick inspection – if your automobile has any mechanical issues, you can handle them before the vehicle is loaded up and ensure it’s in good shape when it arrives in a new state.
Getting Your Four-Wheeler Florida-Ready
You want to ensure your vehicle is in tip-top shape for Florida’s roads. For example, you want to make sure your car’s air conditioning is functioning perfectly before you relocate to a new city. A malfunctioning AC in Florida’s climate can turn any drive into an uncomfortable, sweaty experience.
Florida’s vast rural areas and wildlife preserves mean that drivers may encounter animals on the road, particularly at dawn or dusk. Wild animals can pose hazards, especially on less populated roads.
To reduce your risk of a wildlife collision, stay vigilant in areas where wildlife signs are posted and use your high beams when driving in rural or poorly lit areas.
In the end, the Sunshine State is notorious for its toll roads – after all, it has the highest number of toll roads in the country. Consider getting a toll transponder to save time and avoid the hassle of stopping at toll booths.
The Delivery Day Playbook – What Happens When Your Car Arrives
Inspecting your automobile for damage after relocating to a new state might seem straightforward, but there are some tricks to make sure you don’t miss anything. Even though most vehicles arrive in excellent condition, there are always exceptions, and you want to be ready.
Examine the exterior for any scratches, dents, or paint chips that weren’t there before. Then, compare the condition of your automobile now to the photos you took before it was shipped. This is why it’s essential to have those pre-shipment photos as proof of the car’s condition before the journey. A quick visual comparison will help you spot even minor discrepancies. At the same time, make sure no dashboard components, seats, or other interior elements were damaged during transport.
If you find any damage that wasn’t documented, make sure to note it on the bill of lading before signing. Then, immediately notify the transportation company and file a claim. Most Florida auto transport companies allow up to 30 days to report damages, but it’s best to act as soon as possible to avoid disputes.
Hire Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving for the Best Car Shipping Experience
Transporting your car to the Sunshine State doesn’t have to be a hassle, especially when you leave it in the hands of professionals. Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving provides reliable and efficient auto shipping services, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely and on time, no matter where you’re starting from.
With expert handling, flexible transport options, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, Flat Price Auto Transport and Moving takes the stress out of vehicle shipping. Ready to get started? Contact us today for a quote, and let our long-distance moving company make your move as smooth as possible.
