Shipping a vehicle can be stressful—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re relocating cross-country Auto transport in Tampa, selling a car out of state, or safely moving a cherished classic, selecting the right transporter is crucial. Below, we explore the Top 5 Car Shipping Companies in Tampa, highlight their standout features, and explain how to compare free quotes so you can book with confidence.
Why You Should Always Compare Free Quotes
Maximize Savings
Rates for the same route can differ by hundreds of dollars between providers.Match Service to Needs
Some companies excel at open transport, others specialize in enclosed trailers or expedited shipping.Ensure Transparency
A detailed quote reveals all fees up front—no surprises on delivery day.
By gathering multiple quotes, you gain negotiating power and the ability to select the provider that best balances price, timing, and level of care.
1. Secure Car Shipping
Tampa’s own Secure Car Shipping prides itself on end-to-end peace of mind. Fully licensed, bonded, and insured, they manage every detail—from pickup to delivery—so your vehicle arrives safely and on schedule.
Key Features:
Door-to-Door Service: Pickup at your front door and delivery directly to the destination address.
Real-Time Tracking: An intuitive online portal displays GPS updates at every mile.
Flexible Transport Options: Budget-friendly open-air trailers or fully enclosed carriers for maximum protection.
Transparent Pricing: Instant, no-obligation online quotes with clear breakdowns of fuel surcharges, insurance, and any ancillary fees.
24/7 Customer Support: Dedicated shipment coordinators available around the clock via phone, email, or live chat.
Why Choose Secure Car Shipping?
With deep roots in the Tampa area, Secure Car Shipping offers both local expertise and access to a national carrier network. Their military, student, and senior discounts help make high-quality transport more affordable. Customer testimonials often highlight their punctuality and attentive support, ensuring peace of mind from start to finish.
2. Montway Auto Transport
Overview: One of the largest auto transport brokers in the U.S., Montway Auto Transport connects shippers with a vast carrier network and offers a Price Match Promise.
Key Features:
Instant Online Quotes: Obtain a no-obligation estimate within seconds.
Price Match Promise: If you find a lower written quote, Montway will match it.
Wide Range of Options: Standard open trailers, enclosed carriers for premium vehicles, and expedited shipping for tighter timelines.
Carrier Screening: Every carrier in Montway’s network is pre-screened for insurance, safety rating, and performance history.
Why Choose Montway?
Their extensive carrier base means fewer scheduling delays and more competitive pricing—even during peak seasons. Positive reviews often praise Montway’s user-friendly online portal, which allows customers to manage shipments, make payments, and view real-time status updates all in one place.
3. AmeriFreight
Overview: AmeriFreight differentiates itself through robust insurance offerings and a high-touch, personalized service model.
Key Features:
AmeriShield Insurance: Optional coverage up to the full value of your vehicle, protecting against damage beyond the standard carrier policy.
Enclosed Premium Service: Specialized handling for exotics, classics, and luxury vehicles.
Dedicated Shipment Agent: A single point of contact who oversees your transport from quote through delivery.
Military & Student Discounts: Reduced rates for qualifying individuals.
Why Choose AmeriFreight?
AmeriFreight’s personalized approach appeals to clients with high-value vehicles or unique shipping requirements. Their agents proactively handle any issues—traffic delays, weather disruptions, or last-minute scheduling changes—ensuring the process remains seamless.
4. uShip
Overview: uShip’s marketplace model allows carriers to bid on your shipment, often resulting in significant cost savings.
Key Features:
Competitive Bidding: Multiple carriers compete for your business, lowering the final price.
Drive-Away Services: Hire a professional driver to move your car under its own power—ideal for short hauls or if you prefer no trailer.
Detailed Carrier Profiles: View ratings, feedback, and damage history before accepting a bid.
Flexible Scheduling: Accept or negotiate bids to fit your specific timeline.
Why Choose uShip?
If you’re shipping a specialty vehicle—like an oversized RV, golf cart, or non-running car—uShip’s open marketplace and custom shipping options can be a game-changer. The ability to vet and negotiate directly with carriers gives you total control over cost and service level.
5. Sherpa Auto Transport
Overview: Sherpa Auto Transport’s “Price Lock Promise” guarantees that the quote you receive is the total you pay—no hidden add-ons or last-minute hikes.
Key Features:
Guaranteed Pricing: All fees included in your initial quote, covering fuel surcharges, insurance, and tolls.
Guaranteed Dates: Lock in precise pickup and delivery windows for an additional fee, ideal for time-sensitive moves.
Open & Enclosed Carriers: Standard options plus specialty care for luxury or antique models.
Proactive Communication: Expect proactive status updates from Sherpa’s shipping coordinators.
Why Choose Sherpa?
For customers who value predictability—especially businesses shipping fleet vehicles or individuals coordinating tight timelines—Sherpa’s transparency and reliability are unparalleled. Their Price Lock Promise removes uncertainty, and their customer support team is known for rapid, informative responses.
How to Compare Your Free Quotes
Request Quotes with Identical Details
Pickup & delivery ZIP codes
Vehicle make/model/year
Transport type (open vs. enclosed)
Desired pickup window (date range)
Build a Comparison Checklist
For each quote, note:Base Rate: Core transport fee before surcharges
Fuel Surcharge: Often variable; ask for current percentage
Insurance Coverage: Standard carrier policy vs. optional top-up
Additional Fees: Remote pickup, oversized vehicle, expedited handling
Evaluate Delivery Windows
A lower price may come with a wider delivery window (e.g., 7–14 days). Balance cost savings against your scheduling needs.Assess Carrier Reputation
Read third-party reviews on Trustpilot, Google, or. Check for any red flags like delayed pickups or damage claims.Review Contract Terms
Look for deposit requirements, cancellation fees, and any seasonal or holiday surcharges that could apply.
Following this systematic approach ensures you select the carrier that best matches your budget, timeline, and level of required care.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Shipping Experience
Book Early:
Secure your spot 2–4 weeks in advance, especially during busy seasons (summer months and year-end holidays).Document Your Vehicle:
Take timestamped photos from multiple angles before pickup—they’re invaluable if you need to file a claim.Prepare the Car:
Remove personal items, disable alarms, and ensure fluids are topped off. A charged battery prevents loading issues.Provide Clear Instructions:
Include apartment numbers, gate codes, or parking restrictions in advance to avoid last-minute delays.Stay Flexible:
Weather, traffic, and mechanical issues can shift schedules. Allow a 1–2 day buffer on both ends of your window.
Real Customer Testimonials
“Secure Car Shipping delivered my vehicle flawlessly. Their real-time tracking and responsive team turned a potentially nerve-wracking move into a breeze.”
– Amanda P., Tampa
“Montway matched a lower quote I found, saving me nearly $150. My truck arrived in perfect condition—couldn’t be happier.”
– Carlos R., Clearwater
“AmeriFreight’s agent handled every detail, even when we had to change dates last minute. Their AmeriShield coverage gave me total peace of mind.”
– Brittany S., St. Petersburg
Final Thoughts
Choosing from the Top 5 Car Shipping Companies in Tampa and properly comparing free quotes empowers you to secure the best combination of price, service, and reliability. Whether you go with local experts like Secure Car Shipping or national brokers such as Montway, AmeriFreight, uShip, or Sherpa, the key is armoring yourself with information:
Gather multiple quotes with consistent details.
Compare line-item fees, insurance limits, and delivery windows.
Vet carrier reputations through third-party reviews.
Document your vehicle’s condition before transit.
By following this guide, you’ll avoid hidden fees, minimize stress, and ensure your car arrives safely and on time—every time.
Ready to ship? Visit each company’s website, enter your shipment details, and compare your free quotes today to lock in the best rate for stress-free auto transport in Tampa.
