Shipping a Car from Long Island, NY to Florida

Each year, thousands of people move or travel seasonally between Long Island, New York, and various cities in Florida. Whether you’re a snowbird escaping the cold, relocating for work, or sending a vehicle to family, transporting a car from Long Island to Florida can save time, energy, and unnecessary wear on your vehicle.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the process, including timelines, costs, how pickup and delivery work, and why shipping might be the smartest option compared to driving.

How Does Car Shipping from Long Island to Florida Work?

Shipping a car from Long Island to Florida involves booking a professional auto transport company to move your vehicle on a trailer — either an open carrier (more common and affordable) or an enclosed carrier (for luxury or collector vehicles). The route typically follows the East Coast’s major highways, such as I-95, which ensures relatively quick and straightforward delivery.

The process generally follows these steps:

1. Request a Quote: Submit your vehicle’s details (year, make, model), pickup/drop-off addresses, and preferred shipment dates.
2. Book the Service: Once you accept a quote, the broker or carrier schedules your vehicle with a driver.
3. Vehicle Pickup: The driver will contact you to arrange pickup, usually within a 1–3 day window. A condition report is completed and signed.
4. Transport Begins: Your car is transported from Long Island to Florida on the agreed route.
5. Delivery & Final Inspection: On arrival, the car is inspected again. You or a designated party will sign off and make the final payment if necessary.

Door-to-door service is the most commonly requested option, but if your Long Island location has restricted access (narrow streets, HOA rules), you may meet the driver at a nearby lot or wide road.

How Long Does It Take to Ship a Car to Florida from Long Island?

The shipping timeline from Long Island to Florida is typically between 3 to 5 days for standard service. However, several factors influence exact transit time:

• Pickup Timing: Most carriers provide a 1–3 day pickup window from the scheduled date.
• Route Traffic: I-95 is one of the busiest routes in the U.S., especially during seasonal migrations, which may affect speed.
• Weather Conditions: Storms or heavy rain along the East Coast may delay shipments slightly.
• Delivery Location: Urban areas like Miami or Orlando are easier and quicker to access than more remote towns.

If you’re in a rush, expedited shipping is available, though it costs more. Planning 1–2 weeks ahead of time helps secure a better rate and timing.

What Does It Cost to Ship a Car from Long Island to Florida?

The average cost to ship a car from Long Island to Florida ranges from $850 to $1,100, depending on several variables:

Factors That Influence Cost:

• Vehicle Type: Larger vehicles like SUVs or pickup trucks cost more than compact sedans due to size and weight.
• Transport Type:
  
  
  • Open carrier is most common and cost-effective.
    
    
  • Enclosed carrier adds 30–50% to the base cost.
    
    
• Seasonal Demand: Prices rise during snowbird season (fall and spring) and during the holidays when demand surges.
• Delivery Specificity: Remote or rural Florida locations may increase the price due to limited carrier availability.
• Fuel Prices and Route Popularity: Long Island to Florida is a well-traveled route, which helps keep pricing competitive.

It’s best to compare several quotes, but beware of prices that seem too low — they can often lead to delays or bait-and-switch tactics.

Will My Vehicle Be Picked Up and Delivered Directly?

Yes, door-to-door delivery is available for most Long Island to Florida transports. However, due to residential restrictions in Long Island neighborhoods (like narrow streets or gated communities), the carrier may need to meet you nearby in a large open space like a shopping center or public lot.

Similarly, in Florida, delivery can be arranged to your driveway or close by, depending on access. Carriers typically call 12–24 hours before arrival to coordinate the exact delivery location and time.

Some shippers offer terminal-to-terminal shipping as a budget option, but it involves dropping off and picking up your vehicle at designated locations, which can be inconvenient.

Why Ship Instead of Drive from Long Island to Florida?

Driving from Long Island to Florida takes about 18–20 hours of actual road time and covers over 1,200 miles. When you factor in food, gas, hotel stops, and wear-and-tear on your vehicle, shipping becomes a very practical alternative.

Top Reasons to Ship Instead of Drive:

• Avoid Fatigue & Risk: Long-distance driving is physically exhausting and can be dangerous, especially in winter weather or at night.
• Save Time: Ship your car and fly instead — you’ll arrive in hours, not days.
• Protect Your Vehicle: High mileage reduces resale value. Avoid unnecessary wear on tires, brakes, and engine.
• Save Money: When adding up fuel, hotel, meals, and time off work, driving often costs more than shipping.
• Convenience: No need to plan routes, book hotels, or deal with unexpected car trouble on the highway.

How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping

To ensure smooth pickup and delivery, follow these preparation tips:

• Wash Your Car: Clean the exterior to better identify any pre-existing damage during inspection.
• Remove Personal Items: Most carriers prohibit luggage or personal items inside the vehicle.
• Check for Leaks: Address fluid leaks before shipping.
• Disable Alarms: Prevent unnecessary disturbances during transport.
• Fuel Level: Keep your tank no more than ¼ full to reduce weight and avoid fuel issues.

Take clear photos of your vehicle before and after shipping to document its condition for insurance purposes.

Final Thoughts

Shipping a car from Long Island, NY to Florida is a practical solution for many travelers, movers, and seasonal residents. It saves time, prevents wear and tear, and offers peace of mind. With door-to-door service, flexible delivery options, and competitive pricing, auto transport has become a preferred choice over long-distance driving.

As long as you book in advance, verify carrier insurance, and prepare your car properly, the process can be simple, safe, and surprisingly affordable.

FAQs

Q: How far in advance should I book car shipping from Long Island to Florida?
 Ideally, 1–2 weeks ahead to secure the best price and schedule. During peak seasons, book even earlier.

Q: Is my car insured during shipping?
 Yes. All licensed carriers are required to carry cargo insurance. You should still ask for proof and review coverage limits.

Q: Can I leave items in my car during shipping?
 Most companies allow up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk only. Anything beyond that is usually not permitted.

Q: What types of payment are accepted?
 Typically, a small deposit is paid upfront by card. The balance is due upon delivery — often in cash, money order, or certified check.

Q: Is enclosed shipping necessary?
 For standard vehicles, open shipping is safe and sufficient. Use enclosed transport only for high-value or specialty cars.