Lakeland Car Shipping

Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier auto transport experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.

What our Lakeland customers say about Sherpa:

★★★★★

"I was very apprehensive as I never transported vehicles before. Sherpa made the transporting process stress free. I was impressed with their service as they did all of the coordination for us. They kept us well informed throughout the whole process. Agents were very professional and knowledgeable. I would not hesitate in using Sherpa again. I will recommend using Sherpa to our friends and anyone who is in need of an auto transport."

Jun 2023

Robert of Lakeland, FL

★★★★★

"From the very beginning, every detail went smoothly with Sherpa. You responded to every question I had regarding the transport of my car. The trucking transport couldn't have been more conscientious or courteous, as well. I won't hesitate to use your company again in the future."

Jun 2021

Joan of Lakeland, FL

★★★★★

"Sherpa's rep kind of dogged me at some things, but he was very nice. The quote in the beginning and the final bill matched. I had concerns because they provided me with a quote, and then, at the very end, they have this statement, 'And we'll provide $300 of our own money if necessary.' But I would recommend them. They got the car here. They did it on time. They actually were a little early, and it worked out just fine."

Dec 2020

Kristi of Lakeland, FL

Key Takeaways

Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert

• Popular Shipping Routes:

  The top 3 most popular shipping routes from Lakeland, Florida are: Lakeland to New York City, NY (1,134 mi, $900 - $1150, 1-4 days), Lakeland to Los Angeles, CA (2,529 mi, $1075 - $1450, 3-7 days), and Lakeland to Chicago, IL (1,165 mi, $875 - $1150, 1-4 days).

• Factors that affect Shipping Costs:

  Key factors affecting shipping costs include distance, transport type (open vs. enclosed), pickup/delivery locations, timing flexibility, vehicle specifications, condition, seasonal demand, and route popularity. Lakeland's central Florida location and proximity to major highways can impact prices depending on the destination.

• What to Look for in a Car Shipping Company:

  Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport service in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by their Price Lock Promise. With an impressive 4.87 average customer rating from over 7,000 five-star reviews, Sherpa's commitment to customer service and quality carrier vetting ensures a top-tier vehicle shipping experience.

• How does Lakeland Vehicle Shipping Work?:

  Lakeland vehicle shipping involves getting a quote, booking your shipment, preparing your vehicle, meeting the carrier for pickup, tracking your vehicle during transit, and receiving it at the destination. Sherpa Auto Transport offers door-to-door service and keeps you updated throughout the process.

• Local Guide to Lakeland, Florida:

  The local guide to Lakeland, Florida highlights the need for new residents to register their vehicles within 10 days of establishing residency and complete an annual vehicle inspection. It also emphasizes the importance of protecting vehicles from Lakeland's hot climate and frequent thunderstorms, and mentions key utility providers like Lakeland Electric and the City of Lakeland for water services.

Factors that affect Lakeland Car Shipping Prices

• Distance: The length of the journey greatly affects shipping costs. Lakeland's central Florida location, with easy access to I-4 and other major highways, can impact prices depending on your destination.
• Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and cost-effective option. Enclosed transport, while about 50% pricier and potentially slower, offers extra protection from Florida's intense sun, occasional storms, and road debris.
• Pickup and Delivery Locations: Urban areas like Lakeland are typically cheaper for shipping than rural spots. If you're moving to or from a more remote area, consider meeting the carrier in Lakeland to potentially save money.
• Timing Flexibility: Sherpa's most budget-friendly option is a five-day pickup window. Rush services for quicker pickup will increase your costs.
• Vehicle Specifications: Your car's size, weight, and ground clearance affect pricing. Larger or lower vehicles may cost more to ship.
• Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are cheaper to ship. Non-running cars need special equipment, increasing costs.
• Seasonal Factors: Prices often peak in summer and January. Lakeland's mild winters make it a popular destination year-round, which can impact availability and costs.
• Route Popularity: Lakeland's proximity to major cities like Tampa and Orlando can affect prices, as busier routes often have more competitive rates.

Understanding these factors can help you plan your auto transport to or from Lakeland more effectively. For more detailed information on pricing factors, check out our car shipping calculator guide. If you're considering enclosed transport, learn about the pros and cons in our open vs. enclosed shipping comparison.

Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping

• Book early: Schedule your shipment at least two weeks in advance. This increases the chances of carriers bundling your vehicle with others in Lakeland, potentially lowering costs.
• Choose open transport: Open shipping offers the lowest rates and greatest flexibility for negotiating prices. It's suitable for most vehicles, unless special protection is required.
• Optimize pickup/dropoff locations: Consult with Sherpa advisers to find locations near major interstates like I-4 or US-98, which run through Lakeland. This can reduce fuel costs for carriers, potentially lowering your price.
• Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items to reduce weight and avoid potential liability issues. Remember, car shipping companies aren't responsible for personal belongings left in vehicles.
• Be flexible with dates: The more flexible you are with pickup and delivery dates, the more options you'll have. This flexibility can lead to better pricing as carriers can optimize their routes more efficiently.
• Consider seasonal timing: Lakeland's mild winters make it a popular snowbird destination. Shipping during off-peak seasons (spring or fall) might result in lower rates due to reduced demand.

What makes Sherpa different?

• Transparency:

  Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.

• Carrier Quality:

  We carefully evaluate transportation records, accident history, and customer feedback to vet every one of our carriers. If a carrier does not meet our high standards, we do not use them.

• Customer-First Approach:

  Sherpa has a 4.87 average customer rating with over 7,000 five-star reviews. We were recognized by Auto Business Outlook as the Top Automotive Shipping Provider in 2023 for our commitment to customer service.

• Nationwide Coverage:

  Whether you’re shipping your vehicle across the state or across the country, our extensive network of carriers ships to all 50 states all year round.

• Expert Handling:

  From classic cars, everyday vehicles, motorcycles and more, we have the expertise to manage all types of auto transport needs with care and precision.

How does Lakeland Car Shipping Work?

Navigating the car shipping process to or from Lakeland, Florida, can be a breeze with the right approach. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth experience:

• Get an instant quote: Start by obtaining a car shipping quote from a trusted provider like Sherpa Auto Transport. Visit our instant quote page or call (877) 850-1231 for personalized assistance.
• Lock in your shipment: Once you're satisfied with the quote, secure your booking. Remember, with Sherpa's Price Lock Promise, your quoted price is guaranteed.
• Prepare your vehicle: Before the pickup date, wash your car thoroughly. This is especially important in Lakeland's humid climate, where dirt and grime can accumulate quickly. Inspect for existing damage, remove personal items, and perform a maintenance check. For a comprehensive guide, check out our How to Ship a Car page.
• Meet the carrier: Sherpa offers door-to-door transport, so you'll meet the carrier at your specified location in Lakeland. Given the city's proximity to major highways like I-4 and US-98, pickup and delivery are typically smooth.
• Wait for delivery: While your car is in transit, Sherpa keeps you updated. Use this time to explore Lakeland's beautiful lakes or visit the famous Hollis Garden.
• Receive your vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car and pay the remaining balance. Note that Lakeland's warm weather is generally favorable for car transport, but be prepared for potential afternoon thunderstorms during summer months.

By following these steps and working with a reliable auto transport company, you can ensure your vehicle's safe journey to or from the Swan City. Remember to consider Lakeland's unique climate and geography when preparing your car for transport, and don't hesitate to ask your auto transport provider about any local considerations.

A Local Guide to Vehicle Transportion in Lakeland, Florida

When moving to or from Lakeland, Florida, there are several vehicle-related considerations to keep in mind. First, Florida uses SunPass for its toll system. If you're relocating from Lakeland, remember to remove your SunPass transponder to avoid unnecessary charges. For those moving to Lakeland, you can easily purchase a SunPass online or at local retailers.

Florida requires new residents to register their vehicles within 10 days of establishing residency or employment. You'll need to visit the Polk County Tax Collector's office in Lakeland to complete this process. Be prepared with your out-of-state title, proof of insurance, and identification. Florida also mandates an annual vehicle inspection, focusing primarily on safety equipment.

Lakeland's climate can be tough on vehicles, with hot summers and frequent thunderstorms. Consider investing in a car cover or seeking covered parking to protect your vehicle from sun damage and potential hail. When driving, be cautious on I-4, which runs through Lakeland and can experience heavy traffic during rush hours.

For utilities, Lakeland Electric provides power to the city. Water services are managed by the City of Lakeland. Popular internet providers include Spectrum and Frontier. Don't forget to update your address with the USPS and register to vote at the Polk County Supervisor of Elections office.

If you're moving with children, you'll need to enroll them in the Polk County School District. For book lovers, getting a library card at the Lakeland Public Library is a great way to connect with the community. Remember to cancel any local memberships if you're leaving Lakeland.

Lastly, embrace Lakeland's unique charm by visiting Lake Morton to see the city's famous swans or exploring the architecture at Florida Southern College. With these tips in mind, your move to or from Lakeland should be smooth sailing!

Lakeland, Florida Car Shipping FAQs

About Lakeland, Florida

🌴 Lakeland, Florida is a vibrant city nestled between Tampa and Orlando. With a population of 112,641 as of 2021, it's the largest city in Polk County [U.S. Census Bureau]. Lakeland got its name from the 38 lakes within its borders, making it a paradise for water enthusiasts! 🚤

Founded in 1885, Lakeland has a rich history and a bright future. The city enjoys a warm climate, with an average annual temperature of 73°F (23°C) [Weather Spark]. Lakeland's economy is diverse, with major industries including healthcare, education, and logistics. It's home to Publix Super Markets' headquarters, employing over 8,500 people in the area [Lakeland Economic Development Council].

Education is a priority in Lakeland, with Florida Southern College and Southeastern University calling it home. Florida Southern College boasts the world's largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture on a single site [Visit Central Florida]. 🏛️

Nature lovers will appreciate Lakeland's 40 parks covering over 1,000 acres [City of Lakeland]. The city is also famous for its swans, introduced in 1957 and now a beloved symbol of Lakeland [TheLedger.com]. For sports fans, Lakeland is the spring training home of the Detroit Tigers, hosting games at Joker Marchant Stadium since 1966 [MLB.com]. 🦢⚾

With its central location, beautiful scenery, and thriving community, Lakeland continues to attract new residents and businesses. It's no wonder the city's motto is "Close to Everything...Away From It All!" 🌟

Areas of Lakeland, Florida that we Serve

Lakeland City: 33801, 33802, 33803, 33804, 33805, 33806, 33807, 33809, 33810, 33811, 33812, 33813, 33815
North Lakeland: 33809, 33810, 33811, 33815
South Lakeland: 33801, 33802, 33803, 33804, 33812, 33813
Kathleen: 33810, 33849
Highland City: 33846
Medulla: 33811
Polk City: 33868
Auburndale: 33823
Mulberry: 33860
Plant City: 33563, 33564, 33565, 33566, 33567
Winter Haven: 33880, 33881, 33882, 33883, 33884, 33885, 33888
Bartow: 33830, 33831

Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Florida and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.