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Lakeland, 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 Lakeland 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 Lakeland?
9 Car Transport FAQs
CITY OVERVIEW

Car Shipping in Lakeland, FL

Since 2012, our scrappy team has fought the broker monopoly to give you honest, affordable car shipping in Lakeland, FL. With decades of experience and top‑rated reviews, we make auto transport clear and cost‑effective. Learn how our transparent process, real‑time tracking, and reliable carriers keep your vehicle safe from door to door—without hidden fees or surprise delays.

Average Cost FROM Lakeland

$775 – $1,150
Based on recent shipments

Average Cost TO Lakeland

$825 – $1,150
Based on recent shipments

Top Destination States from Lakeland, FL

1
California
64 shipments
$1,075 – $1,300
2
New York
54 shipments
$750 – $1,100
3
Texas
43 shipments
$775 – $1,025
4
Colorado
24 shipments
$975 – $1,350
5
Florida
23 shipments
$400 – $500
TOP DESTINATIONS

Popular Destination Cities from Lakeland, FL

The most common destination cities for car shipping from Lakeland, 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 $725 – $975 Lakeland, FL to New York, NY
2 Los Angeles, CA $1,075 – $1,300 Lakeland, FL to Los Angeles, CA
3 Dallas, TX $775 – $925 Lakeland, FL to Dallas, TX
4 Denver, CO $900 – $1,225 Lakeland, FL to Denver, CO
5 San Diego, CA $1,025 – $1,200 Lakeland, FL to San Diego, CA
6 Boston, MA $900 – $1,075 Lakeland, FL to Boston, MA
7 Phoenix, AZ $925 – $1,100 Lakeland, FL to Phoenix, AZ
8 Seattle, WA $1,100 – $1,400 Lakeland, FL to Seattle, WA
9 Chicago, IL $650 – $925 Lakeland, FL to Chicago, IL
10 Miami, FL $450 – $500 Lakeland, FL to Miami, FL
Lakeland, FL CAR SHIPPING

Key Takeaways From This Article

TESTIMONIALS

What SAKAEM’s Customers are Saying

Google logo
They transported 3 vehicles for us from Texas to Florida last year in April, and the driver provided outstanding customer service. I recommend them.
Ana King
Sep 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
Google logo
The folks at Sakaem worked together to bring my car down from Massachusetts to Florida in a timely fashion with great care. My contact there was Dawn Foy and she did a remarkable job in scheduling and answering all my questions and concerns. My car arrived exactly when they said it would and in great condition. Kudos.
Ron Hurd
Feb 2022
WHY CHOOSE SAKAEM?

Let us handle shipping your car in Lakeland

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 Lakeland

Distance

Shipping costs rise with the number of miles between Lakeland and the pickup or delivery point, because fuel, driver time, and wear on the carrier increase. A short haul within Central Florida may cost a few hundred dollars, while a cross‑country move can exceed a thousand dollars.

Season

Summer brings higher demand for vehicle transport as families relocate for school breaks, pushing rates up 5‑10 %. Winter months see a dip in shipments, especially after the holiday rush, allowing slightly lower prices.

Route

Lakeland sits at the crossroads of I‑4, US‑92 and US‑98, so carriers can choose the fast I‑4 corridor to Tampa or Orlando, which often lowers price. If a route requires detours onto smaller state roads, the longer travel time can add a modest surcharge.

Vehicle Type

Larger or heavier vehicles such as trucks, SUVs, or classic cars need more space or special equipment, raising the fee compared to a standard sedan. Low‑profile or low‑value cars are cheaper to move because they fit easily on open trailers.

Traffic Considerations

Lakeland’s rush‑hour peaks around I‑4 and downtown can add delay, so carriers may factor a small congestion fee during weekday mornings. However, the city’s overall traffic is lighter than nearby Tampa, keeping the impact modest.

Carrier Availability

Central Florida hosts several regional carriers, and Lakeland’s proximity to both Tampa and Orlando creates healthy competition, which helps keep rates competitive. In off‑peak periods, carriers may offer discounts to fill empty slots.

Population Density

Lakeland’s moderate density and spread‑out layout mean carriers can efficiently load and unload without navigating cramped city streets, which helps control costs. The city’s central location also reduces the distance to major ports like Tampa, further influencing pricing.

TIPS & TRICKS

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

1

Off Season Savings

Ship during the shoulder months of September‑October or late winter (January‑February) when fewer people are moving and carriers have excess capacity, leading to lower rates. Avoid the peak summer travel window (May‑July) and the height of hurricane season (August‑October) when demand spikes and prices rise.

2

Flexible pickup & delivery

If you can schedule pickup or delivery on a weekday instead of a weekend, carriers often offer discounts because they can bundle your load with other nearby shipments. Using flexible windows along the US‑92 and I‑4 corridors lets drivers plan more efficient routes through Lakeland, cutting fuel costs that are passed on to you.

3

Hub city advantages

Lakeland sits near the I‑4 corridor between Tampa and Orlando and is close to the Port of Tampa, so carriers can combine your car with freight heading to major ports or distribution centers. This central location reduces dead‑head miles, which typically lowers the price and increases availability of carriers willing to serve the area.

4

Weather considerations

Lakeland’s summer brings daily thunderstorms and the occasional tropical system, which can delay loading or unloading, so plan for a buffer of a day or two. Winter weather is mild, but occasional cold snaps can affect road conditions; checking forecasts and staying flexible helps avoid unexpected fees.

5

Booking in advance

Securing your booking 4‑6 weeks ahead of the desired move gives you access to the best rates before peak demand periods, such as spring break or the holiday season. Early reservations also give carriers enough time to plan optimal routes through Lakeland’s highway network, keeping costs down.

6

Open carrier transport

Choosing an open trailer can shave 10‑15% off the cost because it’s the standard option and requires less equipment handling. In Lakeland’s low‑crime, well‑paved routes, the risk of weather damage is minimal, making open transport a safe and budget‑friendly choice.

7

Flexible dates

When you allow a few extra days for pickup or delivery, carriers can fit your shipment into a tighter, fuel‑efficient route that may already be planned for other customers in the Lakeland area. This flexibility helps them avoid empty backhauls, which translates into lower fees for you.

8

Compare quotes

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

Moving Insights

Things to Know About Moving to/from Lakeland

Professional auto transport service for Lakeland moves

Florida vehicle registration is handled statewide by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. New residents must obtain a Florida driver’s license, provide proof of insurance, and submit the out‑of‑state title within 30 days of moving [FLDMV]. Unlike many states, Florida does not require routine emissions testing, except in a few counties that use the EPA’s OBD‑II program; Polk County, where Lakeland sits, is not one of them [FDEP]. Window tint is limited to 28 percent VLT on the front side windows and any darkness on the rear windows is allowed if the vehicle has side mirrors [FLDMV]. The legal frame height for trucks is 13.5 inches, and exceeding it can result in a citation [FLDMV]. When arranging car shipping or auto transport, be sure to share the registration paperwork and any lien information with the carrier to avoid delays.

Lakeland drivers should note the city’s downtown parking zones that require a residential permit after 6 PM and enforce a two‑hour limit on street parking during peak hours [Lakeland City]. Local traffic patterns often shift toward the east‑west corridor of US‑92 during rush hour, so plan routes accordingly. Florida’s “no‑fault” insurance system mandates personal injury protection (PIP) and property damage liability (PDL) for all drivers; minimum coverage is $10,000 PIP and $10,000 PDL [FOIR]. For those moving to Lakeland, consider swapping to all‑season tires because the region experiences hot, humid summers and occasional icy snaps in winter; winter tires are rarely needed. These tips help make car shipping and everyday driving smoother in Lakeland, FL.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Lakeland 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 Lakeland, FL, be sure to remove any SunPass transponder, clear out any loose items that could shift in the humid climate, and leave the key (or a spare) for the carrier. Also, take off any exterior accessories or aftermarket parts that might be damaged by heat or road debris during transit.

Yes, when you ship a vehicle to or from Lakeland, FL, our all‑inclusive quotes include insurance coverage. All carriers we partner with must carry at least $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance, and we verify the policy is valid for the entire shipment. This protection applies throughout the journey, so your vehicle is covered while in transit to or from Lakeland.

The sooner you book, the better—aim for at least two weeks in advance, but posting your Lakeland, FL shipment as early as possible helps carriers bundle your car with other loads heading to or from the same area. Because Lakeland sits near I‑4 and I‑75 and is close to the Port of Tampa, early scheduling gives us more options to find a cost‑effective route.

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 Lakeland, FL, open‑air transport is the most common and cost‑effective option, but an enclosed carrier typically costs about 50% more. Because Lakeland’s hot, humid climate and occasional road debris can affect a vehicle’s finish, many owners of high‑value cars, classics, or custom paint jobs choose enclosed transport for extra protection. Both options are readily available from carriers serving the central Florida region.

Yes, we provide door‑to‑door auto transport in Lakeland, FL. When you book, just give us the exact pickup and drop‑off addresses—whether it’s your home, a business, or a nearby gas station—and our carrier will handle the rest. If a location is inaccessible, we’ll work with you to choose a safe, convenient alternative nearby.

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 Lakeland

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

Lakeland, FL sits snugly between Tampa and Orlando, offering a sunny, lake‑filled backdrop that makes car shipping both scenic and convenient.

  • Lake‑Rich Geography: With 38 named lakes, Lakeland lives up to its name and provides plenty of waterfront routes for road trips.
  • Iconic Landmarks: Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright‑designed campus of Florida Southern College and the Polk Museum of Art for a cultural boost.
  • Historical Roots: Founded in 1885, Lakeland grew around the citrus industry and the historic “Lake‑to‑Lake” rail line that still powers today’s freight traffic.
  • Vehicle‑Friendly Laws: Florida requires vehicle registration within 30 days of moving, and Lakeland’s well‑maintained roads make compliance easy.
  • Climate: Expect a humid subtropical climate—warm summers, mild winters, and frequent summer thunderstorms.
  • Economic Engine: Logistics, manufacturing, and citrus remain key industries, creating steady demand for auto transport services.
  • Population: About 112,000 residents enjoy a diverse community with a strong sense of local pride.
  • Transportation Hub: Lakeland Linder International Airport, I‑4, US‑92, and multiple rail lines keep the city well‑connected for car shippers.
Car Shipping 101

How Auto Transport Works

If you live in Lakeland, FL and need to move a vehicle, think of car shipping as a simple, step‑by‑step process. This 101 guide walks you through auto transport from the moment you decide to ship until your car arrives at its new home.

First, understand the two key players: brokers and carriers. A broker, like Sakaem Logistics, does not own a truck; instead, they match you with a carrier – the company that actually drives the trailer. The broker’s job is to find a reliable carrier, negotiate rates, and handle paperwork, while the carrier focuses on safely moving your vehicle.

Step 1: Call a reputable broker to request a quote. Provide the pick‑up address in Lakeland, FL, the destination, vehicle details, and preferred dates. The broker will give you a clear estimate and explain any special options, such as enclosed transport for high‑value cars.

Step 2: The broker selects a carrier with solid reviews, proper licensing, and adequate insurance. This vetting step is crucial because the carrier’s reputation directly affects how well your car is protected during transit.

Step 3: The carrier arrives to pick up your car. Before the driver arrives, remove all personal items, ensure the vehicle can roll, and leave about a quarter tank of fuel. This makes loading easier and keeps the engine ready for any short moves.

Step 4: The carrier transports your vehicle to the destination. You can track the shipment online or receive updates from the broker. When the car is delivered, you will settle payment – either at pick‑up or upon delivery, depending on the agreement.

Things to remember: Choose an enclosed trailer for luxury or classic cars; clear the interior of all belongings; the car must be able to roll on its own wheels; and keep the gas tank at roughly ¼ full. Following these tips ensures a smooth, stress‑free auto transport experience from Lakeland, FL.