Shipping a car from Florida to California is a popular request, especially among seasonal travelers, job relocators, college students, military personnel, and those purchasing vehicles online. Given the long distance between the East and West Coasts—spanning over 2,700 miles—driving may not be the most practical or cost-effective option. That’s where professional auto transport services come in, offering a safe, efficient, and stress-free way to move your vehicle across the country.
At Nova Transportation LLC, we specialize in long-distance car shipping with a focus on reliability, affordability, and customer satisfaction. With over 50 years of combined experience in nationwide auto transport, we ensure that vehicles moving from Florida to California arrive safely, on time, and in excellent condition.
Why Ship Your Car from Florida to California?
There are many reasons why people choose to ship their car instead of driving. The journey from Florida to California can take four to six days of non-stop driving, requiring lodging, meals, gas, and potentially vehicle maintenance or repairs along the way. Add the risks of road hazards, traffic fatigue, and weather-related delays, and it’s easy to see why shipping is a far more convenient solution.
People relocating for work or school often don’t have the time to make the drive themselves. Likewise, snowbirds who spend winters in Florida may need their vehicle transported back to California for the summer. Car dealerships and online vehicle buyers also rely heavily on cross-country car shipping to complete sales quickly and efficiently.
What Is the Process for Shipping a Car from Florida to California?
The process begins with requesting a quote from a reputable transport company. You’ll provide details such as your pickup and delivery locations, vehicle type, preferred transport method (open or enclosed), and desired shipping dates. Once you receive and approve your quote, the carrier will coordinate a pickup time at your home, workplace, or another accessible location.
Before transport begins, your vehicle will be inspected, and a condition report will be created. The car is then loaded onto a carrier—either an open trailer or enclosed truck—and transported across the country. Upon arrival in California, another inspection is conducted before handing the vehicle back to you or your designated recipient. Nova Transportation keeps customers informed throughout the process and offers real-time tracking for peace of mind.
Open vs. Enclosed Transport: Which Is Right for You?
When shipping from Florida to California, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing between open and enclosed transport. Open transport is the most common and cost-effective method. Vehicles are shipped on a multi-car open carrier, exposed to weather and road conditions. While this method is safe and widely used, it may not be suitable for high-value or delicate vehicles.
Enclosed transport, on the other hand, provides maximum protection by shipping your car in a fully covered trailer. This shields the vehicle from elements like rain, dust, snow, and road debris. It’s the ideal choice for luxury, classic, or custom-built vehicles, or for owners who simply want extra peace of mind during a cross-country shipment.
Nova Transportation offers both options, and our team can help you decide based on your vehicle type, budget, and shipping preferences.
How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car from Florida to California?
The average transit time for shipping a car from Florida to California is between 5 to 8 days, depending on the exact pickup and drop-off locations, road conditions, weather, and carrier availability. For example, a shipment from Miami to Los Angeles may follow a different route and schedule than a shipment from Jacksonville to San Diego.
Keep in mind that door-to-door delivery may involve some flexibility with pickup and drop-off windows. At Nova Transportation, we always provide a realistic delivery estimate and keep our customers updated throughout the journey. Expedited shipping options may also be available for those who need quicker delivery.
How Much Does Car Shipping Cost from Florida to California?
The cost of shipping a car from Florida to California typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,700, depending on several factors. These include the distance traveled, transport type, vehicle size and weight, time of year, and current fuel prices. Enclosed transport generally costs more than open shipping due to the added protection and fewer vehicles per carrier.
Pricing can also fluctuate based on supply and demand. For example, rates may be higher during peak moving seasons, such as spring and summer. Nova Transportation offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and our quotes include full insurance coverage for your vehicle while in transit.
Tips for Preparing Your Car for Transport
Before your vehicle is picked up, there are a few simple steps you should take to ensure a smooth shipping experience. First, remove all personal belongings from the car, as transport companies are not licensed to carry household items. Wash your vehicle to make it easier to inspect for any pre-existing damage, and take photos of the car from all angles for documentation.
Ensure that the fuel tank is no more than a quarter full and that the battery is charged. Check fluid levels and tire pressure, and notify the carrier of any mechanical issues or unique operating instructions. Finally, disable any alarms to prevent disruptions during transport. At Nova Transportation, we’ll walk you through the preparation process and answer any questions you have before pickup day.
Why Choose Nova Transportation LLC?
At Nova Transportation, we combine decades of industry expertise with personalized service. Our drivers and support staff understand the unique challenges of long-distance vehicle transport and are committed to delivering your car safely and on time. Whether you’re moving, buying a car online, or simply need a better way to transport your vehicle across the country, we’re here to help.
We offer competitive pricing, real-time GPS tracking, full insurance coverage, and a responsive customer service team. We handle everything from start to finish—no third-party brokers or hand-offs. With a strong track record of satisfied customers nationwide, we’ve become a trusted name in cross-country auto shipping.
Conclusion
Shipping your car from Florida to California doesn’t have to be stressful. By choosing a reputable company like Nova Transportation LLC, you gain peace of mind, save time and money, and protect your vehicle throughout its journey. Whether you’re relocating, buying, or selling, our expert team is ready to handle the logistics with care and professionalism.
Get your free quote today and let us take the wheel—your car will be in good hands from coast to coast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I ship personal items inside my car?
Most auto transport companies discourage leaving personal items in the vehicle. At Nova Transportation, we ask that all belongings be removed to ensure safe and compliant shipping.
What is the safest way to ship a car across the country?
Enclosed transport is the safest method, offering full protection from weather and road conditions. It is recommended for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles.
Will my car be insured during transport?
Yes, all vehicles transported by Nova Transportation are fully insured during transit. We provide documentation before pickup for your records.
Do I need to be present at pickup or delivery?
While it’s ideal for the vehicle owner to be present, you may authorize a trusted representative to handle the pickup or drop-off on your behalf.
How far in advance should I book my transport?
We recommend booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance for the best availability and rates. However, we also offer expedited options for last-minute moves.