Maryland to Florida
Certified by
Tim DeMille
Auto Transport Expert
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MARYLAND TO FLORIDA
Shipping from Maryland to Florida
Planning to move your vehicle from the Old Line State to the Sunshine State? Maryland to Florida car shipping is one of America’s most popular auto transport routes. Whether you’re relocating permanently or spending winter months down south, professional car shipping saves you from a grueling 900+ mile drive. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Maryland to Florida auto transport costs, timelines, and expert tips.
Average Distance, Time and Cost
MD
Maryland
FL
Florida
Popular Routes from Maryland to Florida
Key Takeaways From This Article
Auto Transport from Maryland to Florida
Maryland to Florida car shipping costs $725-$1050 and takes 1-4 days to cover the 988-mile distance along the popular I-95 corridor.
Our Maryland & Florida Customers
Sherpa Auto Transport stands out with our Price Lock Promise, 4.9-star rating from 8,000+ reviews, and transparent pricing that eliminates hidden fees.
Factors that Impact Cost
Distance is the most important cost factor for Maryland to Florida shipping, as the 900+ mile journey significantly impacts fuel costs and driver time.
Tips and Tricks to Save
Book your shipment 2-3 weeks in advance during off-peak months to secure the best rates and avoid expensive winter snowbird season.
How Car Shipping Works
Vehicle preparation is the most important step, including removing personal items, documenting current condition, and ensuring your car has proper fluid levels.
State Insights
Maryland requires annual vehicle registration while Florida requires biennial registration, plus Florida mandates VIN verification for out-of-state vehicles upon arrival.
What Sherpa’s Customers are Saying
The Sherpa Difference
TRANSPARENCY
Our Price Lock Promise ensures you know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden fees or last-minute surprises.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Popular Routes from Maryland to Florida
Factors that Affect Maryland to Florida Shipping Prices
Distance
Maryland to Florida spans roughly 900-1,200 miles depending on your exact locations. This substantial distance significantly impacts shipping costs, as carriers factor fuel, driver time, and vehicle wear into pricing.
Route
The I-95 corridor from Maryland to Florida is a major shipping route with high carrier traffic, keeping costs competitive. Remote Florida destinations off main highways typically cost more due to accessibility challenges.
Season
Winter months see peak demand as snowbirds migrate to Florida, driving up prices. Summer and fall typically offer better rates with lower demand, making off-season shipping more budget-friendly for Maryland residents.
Vehicle Type
Standard sedans ship most affordably from Maryland to Florida. SUVs, trucks, and oversized vehicles cost more due to weight restrictions, fuel consumption, and limited trailer space on popular routes.
Traffic Considerations
Holiday periods like Thanksgiving week create heavy traffic on I-95, causing delays and higher costs. Plan shipments during non-holiday periods to avoid peak traffic congestion between Maryland and Florida.
Carrier Availability
Winter months may require 1-2 weeks for carrier availability due to high Florida demand. Spring and summer typically offer faster pickup times within 3-7 days from Maryland locations.
Open vs Enclosed
Open transport costs significantly less for Maryland to Florida shipping and works well for most vehicles. Enclosed transport offers weather protection but costs 40-60% more for the journey.
Population Density
Shipping to major Florida cities like Miami or Orlando costs more than suburban areas. Consider pickup from Maryland suburbs and delivery to Florida suburbs to reduce urban congestion fees.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
Off Season Savings
Ship your car during off-peak months to save money. Avoid busy snowbird season when northern residents flock to Florida. Even shifting your timeline by a few weeks can reduce costs significantly.
Flexible Pickup & Delivery
Choose flexible pickup and delivery windows to lower shipping costs. Offering carriers a five-day window for both pickup and delivery gives them scheduling freedom, resulting in better rates for you.
Hub City Advantages
Select pickup and delivery locations near major highways in Maryland and Florida. Cities with highway access offer more carrier options and competitive pricing compared to remote rural locations.
Open Trailers
Open trailers cost less than enclosed options for standard vehicles. Reserve enclosed trailers for luxury or classic cars needing extra protection. Most everyday cars ship safely on open trailers.
Learn More About Open vs. Enclosed Trailers
How does Car Shipping from Maryland to Florida Work?
Car shipping from Maryland to Florida is a straightforward process that covers approximately 988 miles along major interstate highways. This popular auto transport route connects the Mid-Atlantic region to the Southeast, making it one of the most frequently serviced corridors in the United States. Maryland to Florida car shipping typically involves transport via I-95 South, which provides direct access to major Florida cities like Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa, and Miami.
The car shipping process begins when you request a quote and book your transport service. Our team will coordinate pickup from your Maryland location, whether in Baltimore, Annapolis, or surrounding areas. Your vehicle is then loaded onto a specialized car carrier truck designed for safe auto transport. Professional drivers handle the journey south, following established routes that ensure efficient delivery to your Florida destination.
Several factors make Maryland to Florida car shipping unique. This route experiences high demand during winter months as people relocate to warmer climates or transport seasonal vehicles. The journey crosses multiple states including Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, requiring carriers to comply with various state regulations. Weather conditions can occasionally impact transport times, particularly during hurricane season or winter storms in the northern states.
The typical timeline for auto transport from Maryland to Florida ranges from 1-4 days, depending on your specific pickup and delivery locations. Major cities generally see faster service due to established carrier routes. Pricing for this route typically falls between $725-$1050, influenced by factors like vehicle size, transport type (open or enclosed), and seasonal demand. Throughout the process, you’ll receive tracking updates and communication from your transport coordinator until your vehicle arrives safely in Florida.
Maryland to Florida Car Transport: State Insights and Regulations
When planning Maryland to Florida car shipping, understanding the vehicle registration differences between states is crucial. Maryland requires annual vehicle registration renewals and emissions testing for most counties, while Florida mandates registration renewals every two years. Florida also requires a VIN verification for out-of-state vehicles, which can be completed at DMV offices or authorized dealers. Your auto transport company should provide you with the necessary documentation to facilitate this process upon delivery.
Vehicle regulations vary significantly between these states. Maryland has stricter emissions standards and requires annual safety inspections in some areas, while Florida has no emissions testing requirements. However, Florida enforces specific window tinting laws allowing only 28% light transmission for front side windows, compared to Maryland’s 70% requirement. Additionally, Florida has unique regulations regarding vehicle modifications, including restrictions on frame height and bumper modifications that Maryland residents should consider before car shipping.
Moving from Maryland’s colder climate to Florida’s tropical environment requires vehicle preparation adjustments. Remove winter tires and replace them with all-season or summer tires better suited for Florida’s heat and frequent rain. Consider having your air conditioning system serviced before the move, as it will work harder in Florida’s humidity. Your car’s cooling system should also be inspected to handle the increased heat load. Many people shipping cars from Maryland to Florida discover their vehicles perform better after these climate-appropriate modifications.
Insurance considerations differ notably between Maryland and Florida. Florida follows a no-fault insurance system requiring Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, while Maryland uses traditional tort-based coverage. Florida’s minimum liability coverage is lower than Maryland’s requirements, but comprehensive coverage becomes more important due to hurricane risks and higher theft rates. Contact your insurance provider before your Maryland to Florida car shipping to ensure continuous coverage and understand how your rates may change in your new state.
Maryland to Florida Vehicle Transport FAQs
Preparing your car for shipping from Maryland to Florida is simple when you follow these key steps:
Remove Personal Items: Take out all personal belongings, including items in the glove box, trunk, and console. Carriers are not responsible for personal items left in the vehicle.
Clean Your Vehicle: Wash your car inside and out. This helps you spot any existing damage during the pre-transport inspection.
Document Current Condition: Take clear photos of your vehicle from all angles, noting any scratches, dents, or other damage.
Check Fluids and Battery: Ensure your car has enough gas (about 1/4 tank), oil, and other fluids. Make sure the battery is charged and connections are secure.
Remove or Secure Loose Items: Take off toll passes, GPS devices, and any loose exterior accessories like spoilers or bike racks that could be damaged during transport.
Provide Working Keys: Have at least one set of working keys ready for the carrier.
For complete preparation details, check our Vehicle Shipping Tips guide. Following these steps ensures a smooth shipping experience from Maryland to Florida.
Yes, your vehicle is fully insured during transport from Maryland to Florida. All Sherpa Auto Transport carriers must carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance.
Before your car ships, we verify that your carrier’s insurance is active and valid. We also require all carriers to add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their policy for extra protection.
This insurance covers your vehicle from pickup in Maryland until delivery in Florida. You can request a copy of the insurance certificate for your records at any time during the shipping process.
We recommend scheduling your car shipping service from Maryland to Florida at least 2-3 weeks in advance. This gives you the best chance to secure competitive rates and flexible pickup dates.
Here’s why early booking matters:
- Better pricing: Carriers can group your vehicle with other shipments heading to Florida
- More pickup options: You’ll have flexibility to choose dates that work for your schedule
- Peak season planning: Winter months see high demand for Maryland to Florida routes as snowbirds head south
If you need last-minute shipping, we can often accommodate requests with 3-7 days notice, though rates may be higher and pickup times less flexible.
Pro tip: Book as early as possible during busy seasons (October through March) when many people relocate from Maryland to Florida’s warmer climate.
No payment is due at the time of booking. We do require a payment method on file so that it is available to charge once a carrier is secured. We accept all major debit and credit cards, including Mastercard, Visa, Discover and American Express. The most convenient option is to pay for your shipment in full by credit card at the time a carrier is secured.
We also allow you to pay for your Initial Payment via credit or debit card and then pay the outstanding balance on delivery day via cash or a certified check made out to the carrier.
Your Sherpa shipment includes up to 100 lbs of personal items or household goods stored in the trunk area or secured below the window line. If you are shipping to or from a port or your shipment includes ocean transit, your vehicle must be emptied of all items. Sherpa and your assigned carrier cannot be responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for more details.
Yes. It is important that you, or another adult that you trust, is there for pickup and delivery of your vehicle. This designated person plays an important role in the shipping process including documenting the state of the vehicle and signing the Bill of Lading, which acts as a receipt of the vehicle’s condition.
Open auto transport is the most common and cost-effective way to ship your car from Maryland to Florida. Your vehicle travels on an open trailer alongside other cars, exposed to weather and road conditions. This method costs significantly less and offers faster pickup times.
Enclosed auto transport protects your vehicle inside a covered trailer, shielding it from weather, road debris, and dust. This premium service typically costs 40-60% more than open transport but provides maximum protection.
Choose open transport if: You have a standard daily-driver vehicle and want to save money on your Maryland to Florida move.
Choose enclosed transport if: You’re shipping a luxury car, classic vehicle, exotic car, or any vehicle with custom paint or modifications that need extra protection.
Most customers shipping from Maryland to Florida choose open transport due to the excellent weather conditions along this popular route. See our complete open vs enclosed auto transport guide for detailed comparisons and pricing.
Yes, we offer door-to-door auto transport service from Maryland to Florida. This means we pick up your car from your home, office, or any address you choose in Maryland and deliver it directly to your specified location in Florida.
Here’s how it works: When you book your shipment, simply provide us with your pickup address in Maryland and delivery address in Florida. Our carrier will come to these exact locations to handle your vehicle. This saves you time and eliminates the need to drive to a terminal or drop-off point.
In some cases, large transport trucks cannot access certain residential areas due to low-hanging branches, narrow streets, or HOA restrictions. If this happens, our driver will work with you to find a safe, nearby meeting spot like a shopping center or gas station – usually within a few blocks of your address.
Door-to-door service is included in most of our Maryland to Florida car shipping quotes at no extra cost, making it the most popular choice for customers relocating between these states.
Many Auto Transport companies try to tease customers with lower rates, only to surprise you with “hidden costs” later. At Sherpa Auto Transport, we do things differently. We provide one locked-in price upfront and stick to it. If unexpected costs arise, we pay them out of our own pocket.
While we may not always be the cheapest option at first glance, our commitment to transparency and reliability offers exceptional value. As a premium service, we ensure an stress-free experience from start to finish.
We transport sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans and motorcycles across the nation, including service to Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not service boats, golf carts, ATVs, or RVs. We can ship both operable and inoperable vehicles so long as the vehicle can roll, brake, and steer, and that you can provide the carrier with a key to the vehicle. We can also ship electric vehicles.
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!