Ship a Car from Florida to New York: Easy Guide

Shipping a car from Florida to New York can feel stressful. You manage tight timelines, long distances, and the fear of unexpected costs. Many people worry about delays or price swings. Others feel unsure about choosing between open and enclosed transport.

This guide solves those concerns. It explains how the route works, what prices look like in 2026, and how to choose the right transport for your move. It gives you clarity so you can plan with confidence.

What You’ll Learn

In this guide, we will answer:

• How much does it cost to ship a car from Florida to New York in 2026?

• How long does the transport usually take?

• How do you choose between open and enclosed carriers?

Overview

Shipping a car from Florida to New York comes down to cost, timing, and the level of protection your vehicle needs. Your best option depends on your budget, schedule, and desired level of safety. Cost Factors and Price Ranges (2026) Prices range from about $400 to $2,000, depending on distance, vehicle size, and transport type. Major cities are usually cheaper. Prices rise during snowbird seasons in spring and fall. Auto Transport Options Open Transport: Lowest cost and widely available, but exposed to weather. Enclosed Transport: Costs 40–60 percent more but offers maximum protection for luxury, exotic, or classic cars. Transit Time and Timing Standard travel time is three to seven days once picked up. Pickup windows are usually one to five days. Best prices often happen in January, February, and late September or early October. Shipping Process and Carrier Checklist Clean your car, take photos, remove personal items, and keep the tank about one-quarter full. Choose a licensed carrier with verified MC/USDOT numbers, solid insurance, and strong customer reviews.

Florida to New York Auto Transport in 2026: What to Expect

Several factors drive the need for auto transport between Florida and New York:

• Snowbirds who split time between the states use this route heavily, shipping their car north in the spring.

• Families relocating for work or lifestyle choose to haul their vehicles rather than drive.

• College students often travel between Florida schools and New York homes.

• Military moves and job transfers frequently require cross-country vehicle transport.

• Buyers and sellers move newly purchased or sold vehicles across state lines.

Cost to Ship a Car from Florida to New York in 2026

The cost to ship a car from Florida to New York can vary based on market conditions and your specific needs.

Main Factors That Affect The Cost

When requesting a quote, remember these factors:

• Distance: Between the exact pickup and delivery locations.

• Vehicle size and weight: Larger trucks and SUVs generally cost more to pull.

• Open vs. enclosed auto transport: Enclosed transport is always more expensive than open transport.

• Pick-up and drop-off locations: Rural areas can be more expensive than major metro hubs.

• Season and demand: Prices spike during the "snowbird" season.

Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport Florida to New York

Your choice of hitch type and trailer greatly affects the cost and level of protection.

What Is Open Auto Transport

• Open carriers are the standard, multi-level trailers you see on highways. Your car is exposed to the elements.

• This is the cheapest car shipping from FL to NY in most cases because carriers can haul eight to 10 vehicles at once.

• It is the best choice for daily drivers and most standard cars.

What Is Enclosed Auto Transport

• Enclosed trailers protect the vehicle from weather, dirt, and road debris during the tow.

• This service is ideal for luxury, exotic, classic cars, or high-value modified vehicles. It typically costs 40  to 60 percent more.

Feature	Open Auto Transport	Enclosed Auto Transport
Cost	Lowest cost option	Premium cost (40-60 percent higher)
Protection	Standard, exposed to weather/debris	Highest protection, fully shielded
Availability	High availability, faster pickup	Lower availability may require more time

2026 Price Ranges: Car Shipping by Type and Distance

Car shipping from Florida to New York has a wide price range. Cost depends on how far the vehicle travels and the type of transport you choose.

Need to Get a Personalized Estimate?

Every quote is different. Distance, timing, vehicle type, and carrier choice all change the cost. Use our car shipping calculator to get a personalized estimate.

How Long Does Car Transport Take from FL to NY

Knowing the schedule is key to planning your move.

Typical Transit Times

• The standard transit time range is generally three to seven days from the time the carrier picks up your car.

• Carrier routes and daily mileage are managed efficiently. But federal regulations set a driving time limit of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty.

• It is important to understand the difference between the pickup window (the one to five-day period when the carrier arrives) and the transit time (the actual time the truck spends on the road).

What Can Make Shipping Faster Or Slower

Several factors impact the final delivery schedule:

• The distance between exact cities: Miami to NYC is longer than Jacksonville to Albany.

• Rural vs metro locations: Pickups and deliveries in major cities are usually quicker.

• Weather and traffic: Severe weather or major accidents can cause delays.

• Season and carrier availability: High-demand seasons can delay initial pickup.

Best Time to Ship a Car from Florida to New York

Timing can significantly impact your weight capacity and final cost.

How Seasons Affect Cost And Timing

• Demand for shipping north peaks in April and May, driving up prices. Southbound shipping is highest in the fall.

• June through August is busy due to family relocations and college moves, keeping prices steady.

• Carriers slow down around major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, which can affect timing.

Best Time To Ship For Lower Prices In 2026

• The quietest, most affordable times are typically January, February, and late September/early October (avoiding the snowbird rush).

• Booking early is always smart. Securing your shipment two to three weeks in advance helps you secure a carrier during high-demand seasons.

How to Choose a Reliable Auto Transport Company for FL to NY (Checklist)

Selecting the right broker or carrier for your cross-country tow is essential for a smooth experience.

Check Licensing And Records

• 

  Verify the company’s MC (Motor Carrier) and USDOT numbers.

• 

  Use the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) tools to check safety records and complaint history.

Review Insurance And Coverage Limits

• 

  Understand the carrier's minimum liability expectations.

• 

  Always ask for the auto transport insurance coverage in writing before booking.

Read Customer Reviews The Smart Way

• 

  Look for reviews on Google, the BBB (Better Business Bureau), and industry sites.

• 

  Focus on patterns. Consistent complaints about delays, hidden fees, or claims issues are major red flags. Look for patterns that show reliability and strong customer support.

Watch For Hidden Fees

• 

  Ask specifically about extra charges, such as fuel surcharges, non-running vehicle fees, or lift gate fees.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Ship a Car from Florida to New York

Get An Instant Car Shipping Quote From Florida To New York

You will need the following details for an accurate quote:

• Exact pickup and delivery locations (e.g., zip codes).

• Vehicle year, make, and model.

• Target pickup dates and whether you prefer open or enclosed transport.

Book Your Florida To New York Shipment

Once you select a carrier, you will:

• Confirm your dates and pickup windows.

• Pay a small deposit, with the remaining balance typically due upon delivery.

Prepare A Car For Shipping

Proper preparation is vital:

• Clean the vehicle and take clear photos of its current condition, noting any scratches or dents.

• Remove personal items from the car (most insurance does not cover them).

• Check for leaks or major mechanical issues. Check the car must roll, brake, and steer.

• Set the fuel level to about a quarter tank.

Pickup And Transport

• At pickup, you and the driver will complete the Bill of Lading (BOL), which documents the car’s condition at the time of pickup.

• The driver provides door-to-door service.

• You will receive tracking updates via phone or email, allowing you to monitor the tow.

Delivery And Final Inspection In New York

• Meet the driver for a final walkthrough.

• Compare the car’s condition against your initial photos and the BOL.

• If you notice damage, note it immediately on the BOL before signing and begin the claims process.

Auto Transport FL to NY Insurance Coverage and Protection

Understanding insurance is key to minimizing risk when shipping a heavy load.

What Standard Carrier Insurance Covers

• The carrier's liability insurance covers damage to your vehicle during loading, transit, and unloading.

• What is not covered includes damage from "Acts of God" (hail, tornadoes) and personal items left inside the car.

Gaps To Watch For

• Be aware of the policy's deductibles, coverage caps, and exclusions.

• It is vital to read the carrier's terms carefully to ensure you do not have less stability than you assume.

How Amerifreight Helps Protect Your Vehicle

As your broker, we confirm each carrier's insurance coverage before matching you. We may also offer an optional AFTA plan, a gap protection plan.

Tips to Save Money on Florida to New York Car Shipping in 2026

To find the cheapest car shipping from FL to NY:

• Be flexible on your pickup and delivery windows.

• Choose open transport unless your vehicle's value warrants enclosed transport.

• Avoid major holiday weeks when prices are often higher.

• Ship from and to accessible metro locations like Orlando and New York City.

Final Thoughts: Plan Smart and Ship With Confidence

Moving a car between Florida and New York should not feel overwhelming. A clear plan helps you avoid surprises and pick the right service for your needs. With the right timing, the right carrier, and the proper preparation, your vehicle arrives safely and on schedule. 

Ready to Ship With Confidence

You deserve a simple and safe way to move your car from Florida to New York. AmeriFreight Auto Transport helps make that possible. We match you only with vetted and insured carriers. 

Get your personalized quote now.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the cheapest car shipping from FL to NY for students?

The cheapest way for students is to choose open transport and be flexible with pickup and delivery dates to lower the overall cost.

Can I ship a non-running car from Florida to New York?

Yes, you can ship a non-running car, but you must notify the agent at the time of booking, as it will incur an extra cost due to the specialized equipment required.

Do I need to be present at pickup and delivery?

You or an authorized representative must be present at both pickup and delivery to inspect the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading.

Can I put personal items in my car when it ships?

No, per DOT regulations, personal items are not allowed in the vehicle. These personal items are not covered by the carrier’s insurance policy.

Is my car insured during the transport from Florida to New York?

Yes, the carrier is required to maintain liability insurance covering the vehicle for damage during the tow and transit.

How to prepare a car for shipping cross-country?

To prepare a car for shipping cross-country, clean the vehicle thoroughly, document its condition, remove personal items, ensure there are no leaks, and set the fuel level to about a quarter tank.