For many snowbirds, the annual migration to Southwest Florida is a cherished tradition. While packing up the essentials is one thing, deciding how to get your beloved vehicle down south is another. Driving can be a long and tiring journey, especially after a full summer up north. Fortunately, a variety of vehicle shipping options exist to make your transition smooth and stress-free.
This guide explores the different methods and specific companies that can help you get your car, truck, or SUV to popular Southwest Florida destinations like Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples, and Marco Island for the winter season.
Understanding Your Vehicle Shipping Options
When it comes to transporting your vehicle, you generally have two main choices: open car transport and enclosed car transport.
1. Open Car Transport (Most Common & Cost-Effective)
- How it works: Your vehicle is loaded onto an open trailer, similar to those you see transporting new cars to dealerships. It’s exposed to the elements (weather, road debris) during transit.
- Benefits:
- Cost-Effective: This is the most economical option, making it popular for standard vehicles.
- Widely Available: Most auto transport companies offer this service.
- Faster Loading: Easier to load and unload, potentially leading to quicker transport times.
- Best for: Everyday sedans, SUVs, and trucks where minor exposure to the elements is not a concern.
2. Enclosed Car Transport (Premium Protection)
- How it works: Your vehicle is transported inside a fully enclosed trailer, protecting it from all external elements, dirt, and road debris.
- Benefits:
- Maximum Protection: Ideal for luxury cars, classic cars, antique vehicles, or any vehicle you want to keep pristine.
- Peace of Mind: Provides superior protection from weather, dust, and potential road hazards.
- Insurance: Often comes with higher insurance coverage included.
- Best for: High-value vehicles, collector cars, sports cars, or anyone who desires the utmost protection for their automobile.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Shipper
Before you commit to a company, keep these points in mind:
- Cost: Get multiple quotes. Prices can vary significantly based on distance, vehicle type, time of year (peak snowbird season can be pricier), and transport method (open vs. enclosed).
- Insurance: Confirm the level of insurance coverage provided by the carrier and understand what it covers (damage during transit, theft, etc.). Ask for proof of insurance.
- Reputation & Reviews: Check online reviews (Google, BBB, Trustpilot) and ask for references.
- Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal: Most snowbirds prefer door-to-door, where the driver picks up and delivers directly to your specified addresses. Terminal-to-terminal can be cheaper but requires you to drop off/pick up at a depot.
- Booking Lead Time: During peak snowbird migration (Fall to Florida, Spring back North), book several weeks or even months in advance to secure your preferred dates and rates.
- Vehicle Condition Report: Ensure a thorough inspection and condition report is completed at both pickup and delivery, noting any existing damage.
Reputable Vehicle Shipping Companies for Snowbirds
Many companies specialize in long-distance vehicle transport. Here are some widely recognized options often used by snowbirds:
1. Montway Auto Transport
- Unique Benefits: One of the largest and most well-regarded auto transport brokers in the U.S. They offer both open and enclosed transport, with a strong network of carriers. Known for their competitive pricing and generally reliable service. They offer guaranteed pickup dates for an extra fee, which can be valuable during peak season.
- Serves: All major Southwest Florida destinations (Sarasota, Fort Myers, Naples, Marco Island, Bradenton, Venice, etc.).
- Contact: Visit their website for an instant quote or call their customer service.
2. AmeriFreight
- Unique Benefits: Highly rated for customer service and transparency. They offer a “Damage-Free Guarantee” program and competitive rates. Known for efficiently connecting customers with reputable carriers and providing clear communication throughout the process.
- Serves: All major Southwest Florida destinations.
- Contact: Get a quote online or by phone.
3. Sherpa Auto Transport
- Unique Benefits: Known for their “Price Lock Promise,” which means the quoted price is the final price, preventing last-minute surcharges. This can provide excellent peace of mind. They pride themselves on a premium service and high customer satisfaction.
- Serves: All major Southwest Florida destinations.
- Contact: Request a quote through their website.
4. DAS Auto Shippers (Dependable Auto Shippers)
- Unique Benefits: A long-standing company with extensive experience in the auto transport industry. They offer both open and enclosed services and are often used for corporate relocations and military moves, indicating a high level of reliability.
- Serves: All major Southwest Florida destinations.
- Contact: Obtain a quote directly from their website.
5. Guardian Auto Transport
- Unique Benefits: Focuses on providing personalized service and reliable transport. They often receive positive reviews for their communication and ability to handle specific customer requests.
- Serves: All major Southwest Florida destinations.
- Contact: Get a quote online or speak with a representative.
6. Local/Regional Haulers (Often Found Through Brokers)
While the national companies listed above are great starting points, sometimes a smaller, regional hauling company can offer competitive rates or more flexible scheduling. Many of the larger companies act as brokers, connecting you with these smaller, vetted carriers.
Specific Southwest Florida Destinations
Regardless of your chosen shipper, ensure you provide the exact pickup and delivery addresses for your seasonal residence.
- Sarasota & Bradenton: Popular for their cultural attractions and beautiful beaches.
- Fort Myers & Fort Myers Beach: Known for lively entertainment and a more active Spring Break scene.
- Naples & Marco Island: Upscale and luxurious, with world-class dining and golf.
- Venice & Port Charlotte: Growing areas offering a more relaxed, community-focused feel.
- Sanibel & Captiva Islands: Nature-rich and tranquil, though still recovering in some areas post-Ian.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Shipment
To ensure a smooth transport experience, follow these steps:
- Clean Your Car: A clean car makes it easier to spot any pre-existing damage during the inspection.
- Remove Personal Items: Auto transporters are only insured for the vehicle itself, not its contents. Remove all personal belongings. Some companies allow a small amount of non-valuable items in the trunk, but confirm this beforehand.
- Check Fluid Levels & Tire Pressure: Ensure your battery is charged, tires are properly inflated, and fluids are topped off.
- Fuel Level: Leave about 1/4 tank of gas – enough for loading/unloading, but not excessive weight.
- Remove Loose Parts: Take off any non-factory accessories like bike racks, spoilers (if they impede transport), or custom antennas.
- Secure Convertible Tops: Ensure they are tightly secured.
- Disable Alarms: Inform the driver how to disable your car alarm if it’s prone to accidental activation.
- Provide Keys: You’ll need to provide one set of keys to the driver.
Shipping your vehicle can be a convenient and sensible option for enjoying your Southwest Florida winter without the stress of a long drive. By researching your options and planning ahead, you can ensure your car arrives safely, ready for all your sun-drenched adventures.
