St. Petersburg, FL Car Shipping
Sherpa Auto Transport provides the premier car shipping experience with upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise.
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St. Petersburg, FL Car Shipping Key Takeaways
Certified by Tim DeMille, Auto Transport Expert
Our Three Most Popular Car Shipping Routes from St. Petersburg, FL
- St. Petersburg to Los Angeles, CA with an average cost of $1250 – $1600 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 days
- St. Petersburg to New York City, NY with an average cost of $950 – $1300 and an avg. transit time of 1 to 4 days
- St. Petersburg to Phoenix, AZ with an average cost of $1100 – $1200 and an avg. transit time of 3 to 7 days
Factors that Affect Auto Transport Costs
- Book Early. We recommend booking car transport at least two weeks out.
- Be Flexible. Certain days of the week & time of the year can be more expensive.
- Enclosed auto transport vs open car shipping. Special vehicles require a fully enclosed car shipping trailer. Enclosed trailers offer protection & peace of mind, but are significantly more expensive.
- Vehicle Size. Full size Pickup Trucks cost more to ship than Compact Cars.
- Location, Location, Location. For your convenience, we strive to make all of shipments door to door. However, if you are in a remote location, consider selecting a location closer to an interstate to help reduce your car shipping cost.
Why Choose Sherpa to Ship your Car?
With 4.9 Stars out of 8,000+ reviews and a BBB A+ rating: Sherpa Auto Transport stands out as the premier auto transport company in the United States, offering upfront, transparent pricing backed by our Price Lock Promise. With a customer-first approach, nationwide coverage, and expert handling of all types of vehicles, Sherpa’s commitment to quality and service is reflected in our high customer ratings and industry recognition.
What our St. Petersburg customers say about Sherpa:
“Sherpa’s customer service was outstanding. I was informed by friendly professionals who educated me about every step. There were no surprises and that transparency gave me great comfort in choosing them. That played out through every stage of the process. The carrier that took the job was also excellent. This was my first experience with auto transport and it exceeded my expectations.”
“It didn’t take me too long to get my date I wanted to sent my car from Crestview, Florida to Denver Colorado. I gave Shane the date May 23rd I asked for and the driver arrived on that day I asked for. The dispatcher from the company assigned for me were incredible, the lady dispatcher were on top of informing me on date when the driver will come to pick my car.”
“Outstanding company! I recently had death in my family and had to get my uncle’s car from Florida to Maryland. The paperwork to change ownership of the car was slow, but Sherpa Auto Transport stayed in touch with me. They called once a week to ensure me that the price we had initially agreed to would still be honored.”
Popular Auto Transport Routes from St. Petersburg, Florida
| Route | Distance | Est. Cost | Est. Transit Time | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Petersburg to Los Angeles, CA | 2,549 mi | $1250 – $1600 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| St. Petersburg to New York City, NY | 1,154 mi | $950 – $1300 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| St. Petersburg to Phoenix, AZ | 2,177 mi | $1100 – $1200 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| St. Petersburg to Denver, CO | 1,881 mi | $975 – $1075 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| St. Petersburg to Boston, MA | 1,367 mi | $925 – $1300 | 1 to 5 days | Get Quote |
| St. Petersburg to San Diego, CA | 2,472 mi | $1100 – $1375 | 3 to 7 days | Get Quote |
| St. Petersburg to Seattle, WA | 3,115 mi | $1225 – $1650 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
| St. Petersburg to Minneapolis, MN | 1,610 mi | $925 – $1100 | 2 to 6 days | Get Quote |
| St. Petersburg to Chicago, IL | 1,195 mi | $850 – $1100 | 1 to 4 days | Get Quote |
| St. Petersburg to Sacramento, CA | 2,850 mi | $1400 – $1525 | 4 to 10 days | Get Quote |
Note: These figures are based on Sherpa’s actual data from the past 12 months of vehicle shipments to or from St. Petersburg, FL. When choosing an auto transport company, it is crucial to select the best car shipping company by considering factors such as reliability, customer satisfaction, and transparency in pricing.
Factors that affect St. Petersburg Car Shipping Prices
- Distance: The length of the journey affects car shipping costs to and from St. Petersburg, FL. Longer distances generally mean higher prices, but per-mile rates often decrease for longer trips.
- Vehicle Size: Larger or heavier vehicles, like SUVs or trucks, typically cost more to ship than smaller cars due to the space they occupy on the carrier.
- Transport Type: Open carriers are the most common and affordable option for car shipping to St. Petersburg. Enclosed transport, while about 50% more expensive, offers extra protection from weather and road debris, which can be beneficial during Florida’s hurricane season.
- Time of Year: Auto transport to St. Petersburg can be pricier during peak seasons like summer and winter, when snowbirds flock to Florida’s warm climate. Spring and fall may offer more competitive rates.
- Route Popularity: St. Petersburg’s location near major highways like I-275 and I-75 can make it more accessible and potentially less expensive for car shipping compared to more remote areas.
- Delivery Timeframe: Flexible pickup and delivery dates often result in lower car shipping costs. Rush or guaranteed delivery services to St. Petersburg will increase the price.
- Vehicle Condition: Operable vehicles are easier and cheaper to ship. Inoperable cars require special equipment for loading, which increases the cost of auto transport to St. Petersburg.
Understanding these factors can help you plan your car shipping to or from St. Petersburg more effectively. For more detailed information on car shipping costs, check out our car shipping calculator guide. To learn more about the differences between open and enclosed transport options, visit our open vs. enclosed car shipping guide.
Tips & Tricks for Saving on Vehicle Shipping
- Book early: Schedule your St. Petersburg car shipping at least two weeks in advance. This allows carriers to optimize routes and potentially offer discounts for bundled pickups along I-275 or I-375.
- Choose open transport: Open car shipping is the most cost-effective option for auto transport to or from St. Petersburg. It offers greater flexibility and lower rates compared to enclosed carriers.
- Strategic pickup/dropoff: Consult with Sherpa Auto Transport advisors to find locations near major highways like I-275 or US-19. This can significantly reduce fuel costs and lower your overall car shipping price.
- Empty your vehicle: Remove personal items from your car before shipping. This reduces weight and potential liability issues during transport.
- Be flexible: Offering date flexibility for pickup and delivery can help you secure better rates for your St. Petersburg auto transport. Consider adjusting your schedule to take advantage of off-peak shipping times.
- Consider seasonal timing: St. Petersburg’s warm climate makes it a popular destination year-round. However, shipping during the off-season (typically late spring to early fall) may result in lower car transport rates due to reduced demand.
Learn more about Open vs Enclosed Trailers
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 St. Petersburg Car Shipping Work?
Navigating the car shipping process to or from St. Petersburg, FL, can be a breeze with the right guidance. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth auto transport experience in the Sunshine City:
1. Get an Instant Quote: Start by obtaining a free online quote from a reputable car shipping company. This will give you an idea of the cost based on factors like your vehicle type, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred shipping method.
2. Book Your Shipment: Once you’re satisfied with the quote, lock in your car transport. Remember, St. Petersburg’s warm climate means flexible scheduling year-round, but summer months may be busier due to tourism.
3. Prepare Your Vehicle: Before the pickup date, prepare your car for shipping. This includes washing it, documenting any existing damage, removing personal items, and performing a basic maintenance check. Given St. Petersburg’s humid climate, consider a thorough cleaning to prevent mold during transport.
4. Meet the Carrier: On pickup day, meet the auto transport carrier. They’ll likely use major routes like I-275 or US-19 for easy access. Ensure you or an authorized representative is present for the inspection and key handover.
5. Track Your Shipment: While your vehicle is in transit, stay informed about its progress. Most car shipping services offer tracking updates, giving you peace of mind as your car makes its way to or from the Sunshine City.
6. Receive Your Vehicle: Upon arrival, inspect your car thoroughly. St. Petersburg’s sunny weather is perfect for a detailed check. Once satisfied, sign the bill of lading and complete the payment.
By following these steps, you can ensure a hassle-free car shipping experience to or from St. Petersburg, FL. Whether you’re relocating to enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches or moving away, professional auto transport services can make your vehicle’s journey as smooth as the Gulf Coast waters.
St. Petersburg Car Transport: Local Insights and Regulations
When moving to or from St. Petersburg, FL, there are several important factors to consider regarding your vehicle and the relocation process. For car shipping to St. Petersburg, it’s crucial to be aware of local regulations and requirements. Florida doesn’t have a state vehicle inspection program, but you should ensure your car meets basic safety standards. When registering your vehicle in Florida, you’ll need to provide proof of insurance, your driver’s license, and the vehicle’s title. The process can be completed at the local DMV office in St. Petersburg.
If you’re using auto transport services to ship your car to St. Petersburg, remember to remove your SunPass transponder before transport. This toll collection system is used throughout Florida, and you don’t want to incur charges while your vehicle is in transit. For those moving to St. Petersburg, you can easily obtain a SunPass online or at local retailers once you arrive.
St. Petersburg’s warm climate means you should prepare your vehicle for the heat and humidity. Consider having your car’s air conditioning system checked and serviced before or shortly after arrival. Also, be aware that the city experiences occasional flooding during heavy rains, so familiarize yourself with flood-prone areas when parking your vehicle.
When settling in St. Petersburg, you’ll need to set up utilities. Duke Energy provides electricity, while the city manages water and sewer services. For internet, providers like Spectrum and Frontier offer services in the area. Don’t forget to update your address with the USPS and register to vote in your new precinct. If you have children, contact the Pinellas County School District to enroll them in local schools.
If you’re moving away from St. Petersburg, remember to cancel local memberships, return library books, and schedule a mail forwarding service. Whether you’re coming or going, using a reputable car shipping company can make your auto transport experience smooth and stress-free, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move to or from the Sunshine City.
St. Petersburg, Florida Vehicle Transport FAQs
How do I prepare my vehicle for transit to or from St. Petersburg?
See our Vehicle Shipping Tips for details about how to prepare your vehicle to / from St. Petersburg. In short, you’ll want to remove any toll pass or fragile items, make sure you have a key available to provide the carrier, and remove any interior and exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Is my vehicle insured transporting to or from St. Petersburg?
Yes, our quotes are all-inclusive. All of our carriers are required to have a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance and $100,000 in cargo insurance. To ship your vehicle, we verify that the carrier’s insurance policy is valid and in good standing for the duration of your shipment.
All contracted carriers also add Sherpa as a Certificate Holder on their insurance policy.
How far out should I schedule my pickup service from St. Petersburg?
The sooner, the better. We recommend at least two weeks, but it’s ideal to post your shipment as soon as possible so that carriers can bundle your shipment with others in the same location.
How do I pay for my auto transport to St. Petersburg?
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.
Can I pack personal items inside my vehicle?
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.
Do I need to be present at both pickup and delivery?
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.
What’s the difference between Open vs Enclosed Auto Transport?
Enclosed transport is at least 50% higher than open trailers. The primary reason for choosing enclosed auto transport is when you have a high value vehicle like a classic car or a custom paint job that can’t afford the risk of wayward debris on the road. See our open vs enclosed auto transport guide for more details.
Do you offer Door-To-Door Auto Transport Service?
Door-to-door auto transport service is the epitome of convenience in vehicle shipping. At the time of booking your shipment, we will ask for your preferred pickup and delivery address. As long as it is possible, the assigned carrier will pick up and deliver your vehicle to the addresses you specify. Of course, if there are transportation restrictions or safety challenges the carrier will work with you to arrange an alternative location, such as a nearby gas station or parking lot.
How are you different from other Car Shipping Companies?
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.
What types of vehicles can you transport?
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.
More FAQs about auto transport to or from St. Petersburg, FL?
Visit Sherpa’s FAQ page to learn more about car shipping!
Looking for more St. Petersburg, FL Car Shipping Content?
Seasonal Guide
A guide to help you navigate car shipping during different seasons in St. Petersburg.
College Students
Information tailored for college students who need to transport their vehicles.
Military Personnel and Families
Information tailored for military service members and their families looking to ship a car.
Reviews
Feedback and experiences shared by previous customers of car shipping services.
About St. Petersburg, FL
General information and facts about St. Petersburg.
Areas we Serve
Overview of the locations covered by our car shipping services in and around St. Petersburg.
What is Car Shipping?
An explanation of car shipping services and how they work.
Benefits of using Car Transport Companies
Advantages of choosing professional car transport services over driving yourself.
Choosing a Company
Tips and factors to consider when selecting a car shipping company in St. Petersburg.
Seasonal Guide to Ship a Car in St. Petersburg
When planning car shipping to or from St. Petersburg, FL, it’s crucial to consider the city’s unique climate and seasonal factors. St. Petersburg boasts a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters, which can impact your auto transport experience.
During the summer months (June to September), temperatures can soar above 90°F (32°C). If you’re shipping a car during this time:
- Place a sunshade under the windshield to protect the interior from intense heat.
- Remove any heat-sensitive items from the vehicle to prevent melting or damage.
- Consider scheduling your car transport for early morning or evening to avoid peak heat.
While winters are mild, occasional cold snaps can occur. When shipping a car during winter:
- Ensure your vehicle’s antifreeze levels are adequate.
- Remove any liquids that might freeze and expand, potentially causing damage.
St. Petersburg’s location makes it a popular destination for snowbirds. This leads to increased demand for car shipping services during specific periods:
- October to November: Snowbirds arriving for winter
- March to April: Snowbirds returning north
To avoid potential delays and higher prices, consider scheduling your auto transport a few weeks before or after these peak times. Additionally, hurricane season (June to November) can affect car shipping in the area. Stay informed about weather forecasts and be prepared for possible schedule changes.
By keeping these seasonal factors in mind, you can ensure a smoother car shipping experience to or from St. Petersburg, FL. Always work with a reputable car shipping company that understands the local climate and can provide expert advice for your specific situation.
Car Shipping for College Students in St. Petersburg, Florida
When considering car shipping to St. Petersburg, Florida for college, it’s crucial to understand the parking situation at local universities. At the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, students need to purchase parking permits, which are available online. Most on-campus housing doesn’t include parking, so plan accordingly. For those using auto transport services to bring their cars, remember that storage during breaks might be limited. Eckerd College allows students to park on campus with a valid permit, and some dorms offer nearby parking. When shipping a car to St. Petersburg, consider the mild climate – snow tires aren’t necessary, but protection from salt air is advisable. Before finalizing your car transport plans, verify that your insurance and roadside assistance coverage extends to Florida. Lastly, explore off-campus parking options, as they might be more cost-effective than university lots. Planning ahead ensures a smooth transition when using car shipping services for your college journey in St. Petersburg.
Vehicle Shipping for Military Members in St. Petersburg, Florida
While St. Petersburg itself doesn’t host any major military installations, the nearby MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa is a significant presence in the area. For military members considering car shipping to St. Petersburg or the surrounding region, here are some helpful tips:
- On-base parking is available at MacDill, but space can be limited. Many service members opt for off-base housing in St. Petersburg or Tampa, where parking is generally more accessible.
- Florida offers special military license plates, but standard vehicle registration is required.
- The base features a well-stocked commissary and exchange for military families.
- St. Petersburg’s veteran-friendly community provides various support services and resources for military members.
If you’re a service member looking for car transport to St. Petersburg, Sherpa Auto Transport offers a $50 military discount as a thank you for your service. Our team is committed to providing top-notch car shipping services to make your move as smooth as possible.
Reviews from our Florida Customers
We pride ourselves on excellent customer service, as evidenced by our 4.9 rating with over 8,000 reviews. Here are a few more reviews from satisfied Florida customers:
“Sherpa’s customer service was outstanding. I was informed by friendly professionals who educated me about every step. There were no surprises and that transparency gave me great comfort in choosing them. That played out through every stage of the process. The carrier that took the job was also excellent. This was my first experience with auto transport and it exceeded my expectations.”
“My fiancée is a wizard when it comes to doing her due diligence and finding the best companies and reading reviews. I asked her to pull her magic and let me know what she thought, and Sherpa was in the top five transport companies and were actually the first ones to answer the phone or respond to my call. Joseph was the gentleman that I talked to. He was very professional and friendly. He made me feel very comfortable with using the company to broker the deal for me. Top Line Auto Service based out of California dropped the car off. The two brothers met me. I had spoken to Joseph on the phone, and figured out what direction they were coming from, which was east from Florida. And based on where I live, I gave them the best place that I thought would be the easiest to pull up an 18-wheeler, and with a truckload of cars, to offload it and meet them to where they could easily get back on the interstate again and go about their day without having to snake through city traffic. We got that place lined up. It was a few miles away from my house. They called me numerous times when they were on the way and got there. The car was dirty, but I expected it to be. It was raining and it was an open truck. But other than that, no damage to the vehicle. The brothers were incredibly friendly and professional people that if I had to use anybody again, I would recommend them and Sherpa.”
“Outstanding company! I recently had death in my family and had to get my uncle’s car from Florida to Maryland. The paperwork to change ownership of the car was slow, but Sherpa Auto Transport stayed in touch with me. They called once a week to ensure me that the price we had initially agreed to would still be honored. They were very compassionate about my situation. They said as soon as I told them the car was ready, they would find a driver. Each step of the way, Sherpa Auto Transport followed up with an email. As soon as I told them the paperwork was in order, I got a call and an email within 20 minutes telling me the driver was ready to pick the car up. LMK Logistics showed up 30 minutes later. The driver was very courtesy, and I could tell he had many years of experience with loading and securing vehicles on the truck. My sister got the car within 24 hours telling her that the driver was about 30 minutes away from her home. After the car was delivered, I received another email from Sherpa Auto Transport confirming the delivery of my vehicle and to tell me that I was entitled to a free car wash on them. I have stored the name and number of this company in my phone for future reference. I highly recommend Sherpa Auto Transport to coordinate the move of any of your vehicles. You will not experience a better class of service. Thank you so much for easing my pain due to the death of my uncle. I will be using you and recommending you to others in the future.”
“I got a new car, and I wanted to send the old car, an 11-year-old Volkswagen Passat which had only 39,000 miles on it, to my son in New York. I looked at three or four different transport companies and Sherpa had the best reviews, so I went with them. Sherpa emailed me and called me, and I was impressed with how quickly they got back to me. Also, they seemed to understand what I was going for. Although I didn’t wanna spend a fortune, I also was not looking to go with cheap and have it affect the car. I told them when I wanted to ship it, and they asked me if I could move up the original date that I chose for a day or two, and I said I could. They asked me if I would be willing to wait a couple of days and I said I would, too. However, I didn’t hear from them afterwards, so I called them and asked what the situation was. They said they were going to get back to me as they were just in the process of looking for a driver, and that they should have a driver within 24 hours. When they found a driver, they got back to me and told me they would ship the car within a day or two, which was exactly the time frame that they had offered.”
“I purchased a Hummer that was in the backwoods Northwest part of Arkansas and I live in ********, Florida. I had no desire to be in a car that long and some friends suggested to have it shipped by professionals. My initial inquiry into the car shipping business was not good. I contacted a company in New York (I think?), and from the first day of the call, I never spoke to the same person twice, never got an actual quote, never was given promised call-backs, and most importantly, the name of the company on the phone changed at times. I knew I was dealing with something very shady. I quick check on ****/************ showed over 850 complaints, rip offs, shake-downs, and extortion in some cases by customers to get their vehicles off of the trucks at destination points by drivers who had invoices with different numbers that customers agreed up and even had signed contracts. This scared me a bit, until I called a friend in New York and explained my situation. My friend explained the business to me very quickly. He said it is very risky if you do not know who you are dealing with. That is when he said he and his family had been dealing with Sherpa for years. They ship cars between NY and Florida all the time. I called Sherpa right away and from the first minute I knew I was dealing with pros. I was given a price, a timeline, and great customer service. I received a call back on same day with all the details, the driver’s name, an explanation of why a window was needed for delivery, and most important, the confidence that I could call if I had any questions. Delivery went off without a hitch. Car arrived exactly at the time the driver said he would be there (only 3 days from my initial call), and now I have my Hummer in ********! Cost was very fair, probably less than gas Hummer would have cost from AR to FL, and experience with Sherpa was stress free and professional. I would recommend them to all who value professional experience over saving a few bucks with fly-by-night hustlers. ***********”
About St. Petersburg, Florida
🌴 St. Petersburg, Florida: Sun-Soaked Paradise
St. Petersburg, fondly known as “St. Pete,” is a vibrant city on Florida’s Gulf Coast. With an average of 361 days of sunshine per year, it’s no wonder it’s nicknamed the “Sunshine City” [Source: City of St. Petersburg]. 🌞
As of 2021, St. Petersburg boasts a population of approximately 258,308 residents, making it the fifth-largest city in Florida [Source: U.S. Census Bureau]. The city spans 137.6 square miles, offering a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty [Source: City of St. Petersburg].
St. Pete’s economy is diverse and thriving. The city is home to major employers like Raymond James Financial and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. Tourism also plays a significant role, with over 15 million visitors annually [Source: Visit St. Pete/Clearwater].
Culture enthusiasts will love St. Petersburg’s arts scene. The city boasts seven arts districts and over 50 murals, earning it the title “City of the Arts” [Source: St. Petersburg Arts Alliance]. 🎨 Don’t miss the world-renowned Salvador Dalí Museum, housing the largest collection of the artist’s works outside Spain [Source: The Dalí Museum].
With its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and sunny climate, St. Petersburg is a fantastic destination for both visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re moving here or just passing through, the Sunshine City is sure to leave a lasting impression! ☀️🌊
Areas of St. Petersburg, Florida that we Serve
Downtown St. Petersburg: 33701, 33703
Midtown: 33705, 33711, 33712, 33713
Northeast St. Petersburg: 33702, 33704
Northwest St. Petersburg: 33709, 33710, 33714
Southeast St. Petersburg: 33705, 33707
Southwest St. Petersburg: 33706, 33707
Pinellas Point: 33712
Gulfport: 33707
South Pasadena: 33707
Kenneth City: 33709
Pinellas Park: 33781, 33782
Lealman: 33709
Tierra Verde: 33715
St. Pete Beach: 33706
Treasure Island: 33706
Madeira Beach: 33708
Redington Shores: 33708
North Redington Beach: 33708
Redington Beach: 33708
Indian Shores: 33785
Indian Rocks Beach: 33785
Belleair Beach: 33786
Belleair Shore: 33786
Sherpa Auto Transport services the entire state of Florida and all 50 States. We look forward to serving you.
What is Car Shipping?
Car shipping, also known as auto transport or vehicle transport, is a specialized service provided by car shipping companies to move vehicles from one location to another. Whether you’re buying or selling a car online, relocating to a new home in St. Petersburg, or needing to transport a vehicle abroad, car shipping companies have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently. These companies use specialized carriers and trailers to ensure your vehicle is transported securely, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
About the Car Shipping Industry
Car shipping is a fascinating industry. There are Carriers – the businesses that pickup and transport vehicles – and there are Brokers – the businesses that help Carriers source their customers. Carriers are primarily mom & pop small businesses who own and operate their trucks and trailers – many of whom own and operate their businesses out of Florida. This means there are thousands of carriers and this fragmentation creates a need for centralization. That’s why Carriers rely on Brokers – like Sherpa – to help optimize their loads and source business for them. Sherpa vets Carriers and has a strict list of requirements for any Carrier looking to do business with Sherpa Auto Transport.
Fun Facts About Car Shipping
- The first semi-truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton to transport cars from his Cleveland-based Winton Motor Carriage Company. He wanted a way to deliver cars to customers without adding miles to the vehicles. [Source: Institute for Transportation, Iowa State University]
- Modern car carriers can transport up to 12 vehicles at a time. This design, which has evolved over decades, helps reduce the number of trips needed, thereby lowering fuel consumption and carbon emissions. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- Hydraulic systems used in car carriers allow the trailers to be raised or lowered, making it easier and safer to load and unload vehicles. This feature is now standard in many auto transport trucks. [Source: Tempus Logix]
- The “head rack” design—which allows an extra car to be transported above the truck’s cab—was first introduced in the 1960s. This innovation maximized the number of vehicles that could be shipped on a single truck without extending its length. [Source: Super Dispatch]
- During World War II, specialized military transport trucks were developed to haul heavy vehicles like tanks. These trucks, known as “tank transporters,” could carry loads of up to 100 tons, paving the way for modern heavy-duty transport trucks. [Source: National WWII Museum]
- Auto transport trucks can have fuel tanks that hold up to 300 gallons of diesel, allowing them to travel over 2,000 miles without needing to refuel. This is crucial for long-haul routes, ensuring continuous operation with minimal stops. [Source: Diesel Technology Forum]
- Some modern car carriers are made of lightweight aluminum, which reduces the trailer’s weight by up to 3,000 pounds compared to steel. This allows for greater fuel efficiency and payload capacity, meaning carriers can transport more cars with less fuel. [Source: Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering]
Benefits of Using a Car Transport Company
Opting for car shipping services to or from St. Petersburg, FL offers numerous advantages. It provides unparalleled convenience, saving you time and effort while ensuring your vehicle’s safe arrival. Professional auto transport companies possess the expertise and equipment to handle your car with care, whether you’re relocating to enjoy the Sunshine City’s beautiful beaches or moving away from its vibrant arts scene. Car transport also offers peace of mind through insurance coverage and eliminates the stress of long-distance driving. By choosing to ship a car, you’re opting for a cost-effective, hassle-free solution that allows you to focus on other aspects of your move to or from St. Petersburg.
Choosing the Right Auto Transport Company
When choosing a car shipping company for your St. Petersburg transport needs, prioritize reputation and experience. Look for providers with a proven track record of successful auto transports and positive customer reviews. Ensure the company offers adequate insurance coverage and is registered with the FMCSA. Consider factors like pricing, service range, and customer support quality. Be wary of unusually low quotes or companies demanding large upfront deposits. A reliable car transport service should offer transparent pricing and clear communication throughout the process. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you’ll find a trustworthy partner to safely ship your vehicle to or from the Sunshine City.