Shipping a car from Florida to Michigan typically costs between $800 and $1,500 for an open carrier. The final price depends on several key factors, with the most significant being the type of transport you choose, the specific cities involved, the season, and your vehicle's size.
The most common and affordable option is open transport, where your car is shipped on a standard multi-car trailer. Enclosed transport, which protects your vehicle from road debris and weather, is more expensive, often costing 30-60% more. The exact pickup and drop-off locations matter greatly; shipping to or from a major metropolitan area like Miami to Detroit is generally cheaper than a remote rural location due to higher carrier availability.
Factors Influencing Car Shipping Costs:
| Factor | Impact on Cost | Details & Examples |
|---|
| Transport Type | High | Open carrier: $800-$1,500. Enclosed carrier: $1,200-$2,200+. |
| Distance & Route | High | The 1,200-mile Florida-Michigan route is a well-traveled corridor, keeping costs competitive. |
| Vehicle Size | Medium | A standard sedan fits easily. Larger vehicles (SUVs, trucks) cost $50-$150 more. |
| Seasonality | Medium | Prices spike in winter (Oct-Mar) as people move south and Michigan transport becomes trickier. |
| Timing & Flexibility | Medium | Booking 1-2 weeks in advance gets better rates. Last-minute bookings are more expensive. |
| Pickup/Drop-off | Medium | Major city-to-city is cheapest. Remote locations add "deadhead" fees for the carrier. |
| Operable Vehicle | High | A car that runs and drives is standard. Inoperable cars can add $150-$400 to the cost. |
To get the best deal, I recommend getting quotes from at least 3-5 reputable brokers or carriers. Be prepared to provide your vehicle's make, model, year, and condition, along with the specific ZIP codes for pickup and delivery. Read reviews and ensure the company is properly insured. Your flexibility with pickup dates can also lead to significant savings.
