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Tampa, FL Car Shipping: 2025 Costs & Routes

Last updated: October 2025

Mike De Candia
Certified by:
Mike De Candia
Mike started working for SAKAEM in 2012 and has been successfully transporting cars ever since.
Pete Bottino
Sakaem is operated by:
Pete Bottino
Pete has been in the transportation industry for nearly 40 years and launched SAKAEM back in 2012.
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ON THIS PAGE

1 Tampa Car Shipping Overview
2 Top Destination Cities
3 Key Takeaways
4 Customer Testimonials
5 Why Choose SAKAEM?
6 Cost Factors
7 Tips to Save on Car Shipping
8 Moving to Tampa?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Tampa, FL

Since 2012, Sakaem Logistics has been the scrappy, customer‑focused alternative that breaks the auto transport monopoly. Our decades‑long experience and glowing reviews make us the trusted choice for car shipping in Tampa, FL. In this guide we’ll demystify the process, reveal realistic cost ranges, and share tips to keep your vehicle safe and your budget happy.

Average Cost FROM Tampa

$850 – $1,200
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Tampa

$850 – $1,150
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Tampa, FL

1
California
480 shipments
$1,050 – $1,325
2
New York
247 shipments
$875 – $1,175
3
Texas
246 shipments
$800 – $1,025
4
Colorado
162 shipments
$975 – $1,300
5
Washington
154 shipments
$1,175 – $1,525
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Tampa, FL

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Tampa, showing average costs and specific routes. Data based on recent shipments handled by Sakaem Logistics’ verified carrier network.

Top 10 Destination Cities Updated: October 2025
Rank Destination City Avg Cost Range Route
1 New York, NY $775 – $1,100 Tampa, FL to New York, NY
2 Los Angeles, CA $1,000 – $1,225 Tampa, FL to Los Angeles, CA
3 Chicago, IL $775 – $975 Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL
4 Seattle, WA $1,150 – $1,400 Tampa, FL to Seattle, WA
5 Dallas, TX $800 – $1,000 Tampa, FL to Dallas, TX
6 Phoenix, AZ $1,000 – $1,175 Tampa, FL to Phoenix, AZ
7 Denver, CO $900 – $1,150 Tampa, FL to Denver, CO
8 Boston, MA $850 – $1,300 Tampa, FL to Boston, MA
9 Sacramento, CA $1,225 – $1,350 Tampa, FL to Sacramento, CA
10 Philadelphia, PA $775 – $1,025 Tampa, FL to Philadelphia, PA
Tampa, FL CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
Thanks to Jane I was able to get my car shipped after another company screwed me over and the day before the supposed pick up date called me and asked for $500, can you imagine that?!! Jane explained how this car shipping thing works and gave me a good price and the driver Vasili got my car delivered in 3 days from Tampa to Newark. Thanks again Sakaem team, you rock!!
Pamela Arsova
May 2024
Google logo
Had a very good experience with this company. Had to ship my vehicle from Tampa on a very short notice and they were extremely helpful. I didn’t have to pay more than the price they offered me and they answered all of my calls and any questions I had regarding the shipment. The team is really nice and responsive and kept me updated during the whole process. Will certainly use their services again when we go back there in a few months!
Mariam Stoyanova
May 2024
Google logo
Sakaem Logistics was a pleasure to work with from start to finish, reasonable pricing, thorough communication on what to expect, I had a friend in CO who had to provide Igor the truck driver my car key, and the driver called and was there on time, and drive the car out to me in Florida. My car was delivered promptly and we inspected my car thoroughly and a receipt provided. Thank you for making this easy! Jennifer
Sand
Jun 2025
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Tampa

EXPERIENCE

Trust the experts with your car relocation. Years of experience mean your vehicle is well taken care of. A strong track record of safety and service lets you relax, knowing your car is in good hands.

TRANSPARENCY

Understand what your quote includes and the quality you’re paying for when shipping with a reputable carrier. Fair and transparent pricing lets you confidently book your car transport.

AFFORDABILITY

There are no upfront costs when booking. Don’t pay for your service until you receive it. Book your shipment and pay your deposit when the truck is dispatched for pickup.

PERSONALIZED

Have a team ready to assist you with a smooth shipping process. Our team aims to customize your booking to fit your individual needs while addressing your questions and concerns.

COMPREHENSIVE

Enjoy one point of contact from start to finish for a hassle-free shipping process. Your dedicated advisor will expertly guide you through each step for easy auto transport.

INSURED

All carriers are vetted through FMCSA for valid insurance. Trust our experts to select a safe, highly vetted carrier and deliver your vehicle securely to its destination.

KEY FACTORS

Factors that Affect Car Shipping Costs in Tampa

Distance

Shipping costs rise with mileage because carriers must factor fuel, driver hours, and wear‑and‑tear; Tampa’s central location in Florida means trips to the East Coast are relatively short, while cross‑country moves to the Midwest or West Coast add significant mileage and price. Shorter hauls often qualify for lower base rates, whereas long hauls incur higher per‑mile charges.

Season

During winter holidays and spring break, demand for vehicle transport spikes, pushing rates up, while the summer hurricane season (June‑Nov) can cause delays and higher insurance fees that raise costs. Conversely, slower months like early fall often see discounted rates as carriers seek to fill capacity.

Route

Tampa’s main arteries—Interstate 75, I‑4, and I‑275—connect the city to the rest of the state and to major ports, so carriers can plan efficient routes that avoid costly toll roads when possible. Access to the Port of Tampa also opens maritime‑linked routes, which can affect pricing if a carrier uses a combined truck‑and‑ship leg.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, and classic cars require more space and stronger tie‑down equipment, raising the price per load. High‑value or delicate vehicles are often quoted higher for enclosed service to protect them from Tampa’s humid, salty air and road debris.

Traffic Considerations

Tampa’s rush‑hour congestion on I‑275 and downtown bridges can add travel time, so carriers may include a traffic surcharge for peak‑hour pickups or drop‑offs. Urban density also means tighter loading zones, which can require extra handling and modestly increase the fee.

Carrier Availability

Because Tampa is a major logistics hub with a busy port and several interstate corridors, many carriers operate in the area, creating healthy competition that can lower prices. However, during peak seasons or after severe weather events, carrier availability may tighten, causing rates to rise temporarily.

Population Density

The Tampa metropolitan area has a population density of roughly 3,000 people per square mile, creating a steady flow of local shipments and a pool of carriers ready to serve nearby customers. High density can streamline loading and unloading but also means tighter streets and limited parking, which may add minor handling fees.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Shipping in Tampa is cheapest during the shoulder months of April‑May and September‑October, when tourist traffic eases and carriers have more capacity. Avoid the winter holiday rush (Dec‑Feb) and the peak hurricane‑season surge (June‑Nov) for the best rates.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can shift pickup or delivery by a few days, carriers can slot your car into a back‑filled load, often cutting the price by 5‑10%. Weekday moves (Monday‑Thursday) are especially cheaper than weekend requests in the Tampa area.

3

Hub city advantages

Tampa sits on I‑4, I‑75 and I‑275 and hosts the busy Port of Tampa, making it a natural hub for cross‑country hauls. This high traffic lets carriers spread costs across more shipments, which translates to lower quotes for customers.

4

Weather considerations

Tampa’s summer thunderstorms and the June‑Nov hurricane window can cause delays, so schedule extra buffer time and consider insurance. Shipping in the cooler, drier months (Oct‑Nov) reduces the chance of weather‑related disruptions.

5

Booking in advance

Securing your spot 4‑6 weeks ahead gives carriers time to plan efficient routes before the spring‑summer surge. Early bookings also lock in current rates before seasonal price hikes hit the Tampa market.

6

Open carrier transport

Open trailers are the standard in sunny Tampa, saving 10‑15% versus enclosed trucks because weather risk is low. The warm, dry climate means your vehicle is unlikely to suffer damage, so you can confidently choose the cheaper open option.

7

Flexible dates

When you allow a flexible delivery window (e.g., a 3‑day range), carriers can combine your load with nearby stops, optimizing their route through Tampa’s highway network. This often results in a lower per‑mile charge for your shipment.

8

Compare quotes

Get multiple quotes from reputable auto transport companies to find the best deal for your Tampa car shipping needs. We will match any competitor’s quote.

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Tampa

Professional auto transport service for Tampa moves

Florida vehicle registration for new residents requires a valid driver’s license or ID, proof of Florida residency, the vehicle’s VIN verification, and payment of registration fees. Registration must be completed within 30 days of moving to the state. [FLHSMV]

Tampa drivers should note residential permit zones that restrict overnight street parking, downtown metered zones that require payment from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and strict “no‑parking” rules near fire hydrants and bus lanes. Violations can result in tickets or towing. [City of Tampa]

Florida does not require statewide emissions testing, though Miami‑Dade and Broward counties have limited programs. Window tint on the front side must let at least 28 % of light through, and vehicle height cannot exceed 13 ft 6 in. [FLHSMV] [Florida Statutes]

Because Tampa’s climate is hot and humid, ship owners often add UV‑blocking window film, sunshades, and rust‑inhibiting undercoating to protect the car during transport. Winter tires are unnecessary, but regular tire‑pressure checks help maintain handling in fluctuating temperatures.

Florida law mandates a minimum of $10,000 Personal Injury Protection and $10,000 Property Damage Liability coverage. Auto transport companies frequently require higher limits to cover potential damage during car shipping, so verify your policy before arranging auto transport. [FLHSMV]

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Tampa Vehicle Transport FAQs

Our team has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. We worked for some of the largest brokers and knew there was a better way to do things.

So we set out to create a company that would be different. We want to walk you through how the process works and we guarantee to match any price you hear from a competitor.

We’re a scrappy team that looks forward to earning your business.

See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details about how to prepare your vehicle for shipping. In short, remove any SunPass toll transponder, clear out beach sand or other Florida‑specific debris, ensure you have a key for the carrier, and take off any interior or exterior accessories that could be damaged during transit.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Tampa, FL, our quotes are all‑inclusive. All carriers we work with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify their policies are active for the whole trip. This coverage applies whether you’re loading at the Port of Tampa, a local terminal, or a door‑to‑door location.

In Tampa, we suggest booking your pickup at least two weeks in advance, though the sooner you post, the better. Early scheduling lets carriers combine your car with other shipments traveling through the busy Tampa port and along I-75, which can lower costs and speed delivery.

We accept all forms of payment. We can arrange credit cards or arrange for you to pay the carrier directly through cash/certified check. We even accept payment via Cash/Zelle/Venmo.

Your shipment with SAKAEM includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If your shipment includes ocean transit (Hawaii shipments), your vehicle must be emptied of all items. SAKAEM and your assigned carrier are not responsible for personal items left inside your vehicle. See our Auto Transport Process Article for more details.

A designated (adult) must be present at pickup and delivery. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.

In Tampa, open transport is the most common and cost‑effective way to move a vehicle, but because the city’s busy highways and salty sea‑air can cause road debris, many owners of classic, exotic, or freshly painted cars opt for enclosed transport. Enclosed trailers typically run about 50% more expensive than open ones, offering full protection from sun, rain, and road grime while your car travels to or from Tampa’s ports and highways. Choose open for standard vehicles when you want the best price; choose enclosed for high‑value cars that need extra care.

Door-to-door auto transport is the easiest way to ship your car in Tampa, FL. When you book, we ask for your exact pickup and delivery addresses—whether it’s your home, a business, Tampa International Airport, or a nearby parking lot. Our carriers will travel the I-275 corridor and other local routes to collect and drop off your vehicle at the locations you specify, adjusting only if local restrictions require a safe alternate spot.

We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, electric vehicles, vans and motorcycles across all 48 continental states + Hawaii. Our services even provide shipment for golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship vehicles that don’t run so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. The only exception is boats, which we do not transport.

Visit SAKAEM Logistics’ FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!

DID YOU KNOW?

Fun Facts About Tampa

Discover interesting insights about the state you’re shipping to or from

Welcome to Tampa, FL – a sunny Gulf Coast hub where cruising the highway feels like a vacation and shipping your car is a breeze thanks to its vibrant ports and easy‑going vibe.

  • Geography: Tampa sits on the Hillsborough River and Tampa Bay, offering waterfront views and direct access to the Gulf of Mexico for marine transport.
  • Landmarks: The historic Tampa Riverwalk, the towering Tampa Museum of Art, and the iconic Busch Gardens amusement park draw millions of visitors each year.
  • History: Founded in 1824, Tampa grew from a cigar‑making center in Ybor City to a modern trade city, preserving its multicultural heritage.
  • Vehicle Laws: Florida requires a temporary tag for out‑of‑state vehicles, and Tampa enforces a strict “no idling” rule for cars in certain downtown zones to improve air quality.
  • Climate: Tampa enjoys a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers, perfect for year‑round driving.
  • Economy: The Port of Tampa handles over 10 million tons of cargo annually, making it a key gateway for auto shipping and logistics.
  • Population: Over 400,000 residents call Tampa home, creating a diverse, youthful community that loves outdoor festivals.
  • Transportation: Tampa International Airport, Interstate 275, and the TECO Line Streetcar provide seamless connections for vehicle transport across the region.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

Shipping a vehicle from Tampa, FL can feel like a big task, but the process is straightforward once you know the steps. In the auto transport world, two key players work together: brokers and carriers. A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, matches you with a carrier that actually moves the car. Understanding the distinction helps you choose a reliable partner.

The journey begins when you contact a broker for a quote. The broker’s job is to find a carrier with good reviews, proper insurance, and the right equipment for your vehicle. Because the broker vets the carrier, you get a layer of protection and can focus on preparing your car for transport.

Step 1 – Call a broker like Sakaem Logistics and request a free quote. Step 2 – The broker selects a vetted carrier and shares the carrier’s name, expected pickup date, and any special instructions. Step 3 – On the agreed day, the carrier arrives, inspects the vehicle, and loads it onto an open or enclosed trailer. Step 4 – The carrier transports the car to the destination address in Tampa, FL or beyond. Step 5 – Payment is collected either at pickup or delivery, depending on the agreement.

Before the carrier arrives, clear out all personal items, trash, and loose objects. The car must be able to roll, so check that the brakes are released and the steering is unlocked. Keep about a quarter tank of fuel; this is enough for loading and unloading but not enough to affect weight limits. For luxury or high‑value vehicles, request an enclosed trailer for added protection.

By following these simple steps, Tampa, FL residents can move their cars with confidence. A reputable broker like Sakaem Logistics handles the paperwork, matches you with a vetted carrier, and keeps you informed throughout the auto transport journey. Transparency and honesty are at the core of the process, ensuring a smooth delivery every time.