Florida to California Auto Transport
Ship Your Car From Florida to California – Safe, Fast, Fully Insured
Looking to ship a car from Florida to California? Whether you’re relocating for work, buying a vehicle online, or sending a seasonal car across the country, Unlimited Auto Trans makes the process simple. With thousands of successful coast-to-coast deliveries since 2010, we offer a hassle-free solution backed by fully insured carriers, transparent pricing, and personalized customer support.
Car Shipping From Florida to California
Shipping a car from Florida to California means covering nearly 3,000 miles across the country—from the Sunshine State (FL) to the Golden State (CA). Whether you’re starting in Miami, Tampa, or Orlando and heading to Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco, Unlimited Auto Trans offers secure, insured, and convenient vehicle shipping options tailored to your needs.
We offer several transport solutions, including:
- Open Car Transport – The most economical and widely used option. Ideal for most standard vehicles.
- Enclosed Car Transport – Offers extra protection for luxury, exotic, and vintage cars against weather and road debris.
- Door-to-Door Auto Transport – We pick up and deliver your vehicle as close as legally and safely possible to your chosen addresses in FL and CA.
How It Works – Simple 3-Step Process
We proudly connect key cities and ZIP codes like 33101–33299 (Miami) and 32801–32899 (Orlando) to 10001–10292 (New York City) and 14201–14280 (Buffalo).
1. Get a Quote
Enter your pickup and delivery info, vehicle type, and preferred date. No commitment.
2. Schedule Your Pickup
Choose a convenient date and location anywhere in Florida.
3. Track & Receive Your Vehicle
Stay updated in real-time until delivery at your California destination.
Popular Florida to California Routes, Costs and Transit Time
Real Shipping Examples
Common Routes & Highways
Our most common coast-to-coast shipping lanes include:
- Miami → Los Angeles
- Orlando → San Diego
- Tampa → San Francisco
- Jacksonville → San Jose
- Fort Lauderdale → Sacramento
We frequently travel major highways such as:
- I-10: Cross-country route connecting Jacksonville, FL to Los Angeles, CA
- I-75: North-south route through Florida, connecting with I-10
- I-95: Major East Coast route linking to I-10 in Jacksonville
- I-40: Crosses the southern U.S. and connects with I-5 in California
- I-5: North-south highway along the West Coast
- US-101: Scenic route serving the California coastline
City-Specific Shipping Information and Challenges
- Miami, FL: As one of Florida’s largest shipping hubs, Miami has high vehicle volume year-round. Expect quick availability for both open and enclosed transport. However, dense traffic and condo regulations may limit door-to-door delivery downtown.
- Orlando, FL: Centrally located and easily accessible via I-4 and I-75, Orlando is a smooth departure point for most auto shipments. Residential pickups are usually fast and flexible.
- Tampa, FL: Popular with seasonal travelers, especially snowbirds. Seasonal demand (October–April) may slightly raise prices. Surrounding suburbs are often preferred for larger transport trucks.
- Jacksonville, FL: With direct access to I-10 and I-95, Jacksonville is a strategic starting point for cross-country routes. Port-related traffic may occasionally impact timing.
- Los Angeles, CA: Due to strict emissions rules and limited truck access in downtown areas, we often recommend delivery to surrounding zones like Burbank or Torrance for faster drop-offs.
- San Francisco, CA: Navigating San Francisco’s steep hills and tight streets may present challenges. We often coordinate safe drop-offs at nearby lots outside the downtown area.
- San Diego, CA: A vehicle-friendly city with strong demand for enclosed shipping, especially among military families and exotic car owners. Flexible timing is helpful due to busy freeways.
- Fresno & Central California: Generally easier to reach and faster for pickups/drop-offs thanks to wide roads and lower congestion. Central location often means lower costs than coastal cities.
Rural Area Considerations
If you’re shipping to or from rural parts of Florida or California, allow for extra time or cost. Carriers may request meeting points near major highways to accommodate limited access roads or restricted zones.
Why choose Unlimited Auto Trans?
When it comes to shipping a car from Florida to California, you need more than just a trucking company — you need a partner you can trust. At Unlimited Auto Trans, we offer a combination of affordable pricing, transparent service, and real human support from start to finish. We’ve helped thousands of customers safely and efficiently transport their vehicles from the Sunshine State to the Golden State since 2010.
What Sets Us Apart
Flat Rate Pricing
No hidden fees, fuel surcharges, or surprise costs.
Dedicated Shipping Coordinators
A single point of contact from booking to delivery.
Nationwide Carrier Network
Thousands of vetted, licensed, and bonded carriers.
Fully Insured Transport
Every vehicle is protected by carrier insurance.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
We work around your schedule
Flat Rate Pricing
No hidden fees, fuel surcharges, or surprise costs.
Dedicated Shipping Coordinator
A single point of contact from booking to delivery.
Fully Insured Transport
Every vehicle is protected by carrier insurance.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
We work around your schedule
Nationwide Carrier Network
Thousands of vetted, licensed, and bonded carriers.
Types of Vehicles We Ship from Florida to California
Whether you’re transporting a daily driver or something more specialized, we’ve got you covered:
- Sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans
- Classic, luxury, and exotic vehicles
- Electric and hybrid cars
- Inoperable vehicles (with or without keys)
- Modified cars with oversized tires or lift kits
Car Brands We Ship from Florida to California
We ship all major domestic and international brands, including:
- Ford, Chevrolet, Dodge, GMC
- Tesla, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi
- Toyota, Honda, Subaru, Nissan
- Porsche, Bentley, Lamborghini, and more
Our Clients in Florida and California
We serve a diverse range of clients on both coasts:
- Military personnel stationed in or relocating between bases in FL and CA
- Snowbirds moving seasonally between warm winters in Florida and family in California
- College students attending schools like University of Miami or UCLA
- Auto dealerships and resellers transporting inventory coast-to-coast
- Professionals and families relocating for new opportunities
Notable Events & Local Insights
In Florida:
- Snowbird Season (Oct–Apr) – Huge seasonal volume as retirees head west for spring or return home in fall.
- Miami International Auto Show – High demand for enclosed transport for exotic and concept vehicles.
- Online car sales growth – Buyers in California regularly purchase used vehicles from Florida due to pricing.
In California:
- Los Angeles Auto Show (Nov) – Luxury vehicle transport demand spikes before and after the show.
- Spring Festival of LXs (Irvine) – Popular destination event for Dodge/Chrysler performance car owners.
- California car culture – High demand for enclosed shipping of classics and performance vehicles.
Top 5 Reasons People Ship Cars from Florida to California
Customer Reviews & Testimonials
Get an Instant Florida to California Car Shipping Quote
Wondering how much it costs to ship a car from Florida to California? At Unlimited Auto Trans, we offer fair, transparent pricing based on your specific route, vehicle type, and timeframe. Whether you’re moving a compact sedan from Miami to Los Angeles or an SUV from Jacksonville to San Francisco, we’ll help you find the best price and carrier for your needs.
Estimated Price & Time Frame
- Cost Range: $1,250 – $1,600
- Transit Time: 6–9 business days
(Your final quote will depend on the pickup/drop-off locations, vehicle size, transport type, and the time of year.)
Factors Affecting Price
- Vehicle Type – Larger vehicles like trucks and vans require more space, which may increase cost.
- Transport Method – Open carriers are cost-effective; enclosed carriers provide added protection at a premium.
- Pickup/Delivery Location – Major metro areas like Miami and Los Angeles cost less than rural or remote zip codes.
- Time of Year – High seasonal demand (e.g. winter snowbird season or summer relocations) and weather events can impact pricing and availability.
Expert Seasonal Tips for Auto Transport from Florida to California
Best Times of Year to Ship
- Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) are the most efficient times to book. These seasons offer mild weather, balanced demand, and better carrier availability.
- Winter (December–February) brings a surge in car shipments due to Florida’s snowbird season. Many retirees ship vehicles from FL to CA for the warmer months—book early to lock in better pricing.
- Summer (June–August) often sees a rise in rates due to family relocations and student moves, especially to cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Jose.
Events That May Impact Your Schedule
- Coachella & Stagecoach (April, Indio, CA) – These massive events increase demand for car shipping into Southern California.
- Miami International Auto Show (October) – Expect enclosed shipping carrier shortages during this event.
- College Move-Ins (July–August) – Cities like Gainesville, Tallahassee, Los Angeles, and Berkeley experience higher demand and tighter scheduling.
- Holiday Season (Late November – Early January) – Slower transit times and fewer available drivers due to holiday travel and limited working days.
What Slows Things Down?
- Weather – While Florida stays relatively mild, California can see delays from wildfire season (especially late summer and early fall in areas like LA, Fresno, and Sacramento).
- Route Complexity – Urban areas such as downtown San Francisco or Miami Beach may limit access for larger transport trucks due to street size, parking rules, or HOA restrictions.
- Carrier Availability – Expect longer wait times or premium pricing during peak demand periods like snowbird season and university start dates.
- Remote Locations – Pickup or drop-off in rural ZIP codes in either state may add cost or require meeting the carrier in a more accessible nearby city.
Tips for Avoiding Delays and Peak Rates
- Book Early – For best pricing and availability, reserve your Florida to California car shipping 2–4 weeks in advance, especially during spring and winter peak seasons.
- Stay Flexible – Allowing a 1–3 day window for pickup or delivery can help carriers optimize routing and reduce your cost.
- Use Major Hubs – If you’re in a rural area, consider meeting your carrier in a nearby metro like Tampa, Jacksonville, or San Jose to streamline scheduling.
Car Shipping Laws & Regulations in Florida and California
Before you ship a car from Florida to California, it’s important to understand the legal requirements in both states. From registration deadlines to emissions laws, being prepared ensures a smooth delivery and avoids delays or penalties.
Vehicle Registration & Title Requirements
- Florida:
If you’re shipping your vehicle out of Florida, make sure it has an active registration and no unresolved liens. If the vehicle is being sold and shipped to a buyer in California, the title must be properly signed over before pickup. A bill of sale is also recommended.
- California:
For permanent relocation, California requires that the vehicle be registered within 20 days of establishing residency. To register your vehicle in CA, you’ll typically need:
- The out-of-state title
- Proof of insurance from a licensed California provider
- Smog/emissions test results (if applicable)
- Payment for registration fees and taxes
- A completed Application for Title or Registration (Form REG 343)
Emission Standards
- California enforces some of the nation’s strictest emissions laws. All vehicles being registered in CA must pass a smog inspection, unless exempt (e.g., electric vehicles, hybrids, or cars under a certain age).
- Florida does not require emissions testing statewide. However, if your car will be registered in California upon delivery, you should verify that it meets California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards before shipping.
Transport Regulations
- Insurance Coverage: Every Florida to California auto transport booked through Unlimited Auto Trans includes full insurance coverage. Our carriers are USDOT-licensed and insured, so you’re not required to purchase additional insurance separately.
- Permits & Truck Access: In cities like San Francisco or Los Angeles, there may be commercial truck restrictions, parking limitations, or HOA rules that impact delivery. Our team will coordinate alternative delivery locations when needed, such as nearby shopping centers or open lots to comply with local and HOA transport restrictions.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Florida Car Shipping
Vehicle Shipping Checklist
- Clean Your Car (Inside & Out)
- Remove Personal Items
- Check for Leaks or Mechanical Issues
- Disable Alarms
- Check Tire Pressure & Battery
- Document the Condition
- Keep Fuel Tank 1/4 Full
State Specific Notes
- Florida Pickups: For high-rise condos in areas like Miami, Tampa, or Fort Lauderdale, check with building management for truck access rules. If direct pickup is not feasible, we’ll coordinate a nearby meeting spot.
- California Deliveries: Locations such as downtown San Francisco or Los Angeles may have delivery restrictions due to tight streets or HOA policies. Our carrier will arrange a convenient and compliant drop-off location nearby if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Florida to California Auto Transport
How do I transfer a car from Florida to California?
To transfer a car from Florida to California, book an auto transport service that fits your needs—typically open or enclosed transport. After scheduling pickup, the carrier will inspect your vehicle and transport it to your California address. If you’re moving permanently, you must register the vehicle with the California DMV within 20 days of establishing residency and ensure it meets California emissions standards.
How much does it cost to ship a car from Florida to CA?
The cost to ship a car from Florida to California typically ranges between $1,250 and $1,600, depending on the route, vehicle size, shipping method, and time of year. Enclosed transport and rural pickups or deliveries may increase the total cost. Use our instant quote tool or call for an exact estimate.
Can I buy a car in Florida and ship it to California?
Yes, many buyers purchase vehicles in Florida due to lower prices or online availability and ship them to California using an auto transport service. Make sure the title is properly signed over, and confirm the vehicle meets California Air Resources Board (CARB) requirements before arranging transport.
How much is it from Florida to California by car?
If you plan to drive instead of shipping, expect to pay $900–$1,200+ in fuel, lodging, meals, tolls, and wear and tear over 2,500–2,800 miles. In comparison, professional auto transport can often be more cost-effective, especially when factoring in time saved and vehicle depreciation avoided.
At Unlimited Auto Trans, we provide safe and on-time car transport at competitive prices. Ship your car stress-free, knowing we’re licensed, bonded, and insured.
From passenger cars to SUVs, motorcycles, and even luxury cars, we can ship nationwide.
Use our calculator for a free instant quote today.
Book online or call us toll-free at
(888) 278-9855.