Cost to Ship a Car from Rhode Island to Florida (2026)

Mike Marshall, Shipping Expert

Shipping your car from Rhode Island to Florida — a mid-range route of about 1,318 miles — generally costs $959 to $1,507 and takes 3-8 days. Pro Tip: The Rhode Island to Florida route is popular with snowbirds heading for warmer weather in the winter. Booking 2–4 weeks ahead usually gets better pricing.

Cost of Shipping a Car from Rhode Island to Florida

Shipping your car 1,318 miles from Rhode Island to Florida usually falls in the $959-$1,507 range. Things like timing, fuel costs, and carrier availability can affect the total. See our full cost breakdown.

To get the best price, try to book in advance and compare multiple quotes.

Top Rhode Island to Florida Car Shippers

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

Here are the top car shipping companies:

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

Nexus Auto Transport, established in 2015, has rapidly become a trusted name in vehicle shipping across the US. With a network of more than 30,000 carriers, they offer services in all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii. They offer open and enclosed transport, expedited shipping, and door-to-door delivery, as well as discounts for multi-vehicle shipments, cash payments, students, military members, and seniors, among others. Their Moving Season Package includes special deals and services catered to residential and commercial relocations. Customers appreciate their transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Nexus boasts high customer satisfaction ratings, with an average of 4.7 stars across various platforms. Their user-friendly online quote system provides instant estimates, and a refundable $25 deposit secures your booking.

Get A Quote (224) 310-1412

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Live shipment tracking
  • Fast, no-hassle quotes
  • Door-to-door pickup
  • Competitive discounts

Cons

  • No international shipping
  • Pay more with debit/credit card

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door deliveries
  • Open and enclosed trailers
  • Hawaii/Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

Sherpa Auto Transport started after the founder had a negative experience shipping his own car. Unlike most of the auto transport industry, the company is deeply customer focused and prides itself on providing accurate pricing and excellent communication throughout the shipping process.

Sherpa’s Price Lock Promise and free car wash at delivery are just a few reasons the company is raising the customer service bar when it comes to auto shipping.

Get A Quote (833) 775-1461

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Price Lock Promise keeps pricing fixed
  • Pay by credit card available
  • Free car wash at delivery
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • $100k in cargo insurance
  • Will ship inoperable vehicles as long as they can brake, roll and steer
  • Ship cars, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans

Cons

  • Online instant quote not available
  • Cars only. Cannot ship boats, motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
  • No international shipping
  • No shipping to Alaska or Hawaii

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Insured shipping

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5.0

Navi Auto Transport is an experienced vehicle shipping company offering nationwide service across the US, including door-to-door delivery and both open and enclosed transport options. Known for its reliable scheduling and attentive customer support, Navi has earned strong customer satisfaction ratings, with many reviewers highlighting the company’s transparent pricing and consistent communication. They offer instant online quotes, and their expedited shipping option makes them a solid choice for time-sensitive moves.

Get A Quote (501) 248-0223

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Price match policy
  • Quick turnaround
  • Discounts
  • White-glove transport
  • 24/7 tracking

Cons

  • Limited international shipping
  • No guaranteed pickup date

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

SGT Auto Transport

4.8 / 5.0

SGT Auto Transport is a highly-rated car shipping broker that works with more than 25,000 carriers to transport vehicles. They offer long-distance car shipping to 49 states. With the exception of Hawaii, all services are door-to-door and you can choose from open or enclosed shipping options. Get free quotes online in minutes and book an exact pick-up date for a seamless vehicle move.

Get A Quote (864) 492-1221

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Open and enclosed auto transport options available
  • Car shipping to Hawaii
  • Motorcycle shipping available
  • Free cancellation
  • Full insurance coverage included in the price
  • Nothing to pay up front
  • 24/7 customer support

Cons

  • Limited international shipping
  • Doesn’t ship RVs
  • No digital tracking

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Long-distance and international shipping
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Ship A Car Direct

4.4 / 5.0

Ship A Car Direct works with a widespread network of carriers to provide long-distance auto transport with quick turnaround times for a variety of vehicles, including standard cars, trucks, and SUVs, as well as RVs, motorcycles, and boats. This highly rated company offers free online quotes with an extra $500 in gap insurance to cover any potential dings or dents during transport. Ship A Car Direct is a great choice if you’re in a rush, since they can easily handle last-minute requests.

Get A Quote (855) 952-1031

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Home of the industry’s only ‘Damage Free Guarantee’
  • No deposit upfront to schedule
  • Expedited Shipping Available
  • Pay by credit card available
  • Ships all vehicle types
  • Ship an additional 100lbs in the car for Free
  • $500 complimentary damage or loss coverage
  • Rental car assistance should transport take more than 14 days

Cons

  • Quotes expire sometimes within 1 week
  • Do not ship boats or heavy equipment
  • No international shipping
  • Website lacks information

Services Offered

  • Door-to-door service
  • Open and enclosed transport
  • Hawaii and Alaska shipping
  • Insured shipping
  • Online instant pricing

Top Local Car Shippers

These are the best local car shipping companies in Rhode Island:

Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc

25 Messenger Dr, Warwick, RI, 02888
4.24 / 5.0

Beacon Shipping Logistics Inc (DOT: 2268269) is a diverse car shipping company that offers an array of services including international shipping, classic car transport, and specialized solutions for inoperable cars. They also handle boat, motorcycle, and RV shipping, as well as transport for heavy equipment and electric vehicles, ensuring comprehensive support for various transportation needs.

Customers may appreciate their ability to pay by credit card, cash, or money order, adding convenience to their extensive service offerings. However, some may see the lack of a damage-free guarantee and shipment tracking as a drawback. Currently, Beacon Shipping Logistics has a BBB rating of A+, though they have yet to establish ratings on Yelp and Google.

Get a Quote (855) 374-4748

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • International Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Deposit Required
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Pay by Money Order
  • Trailer Shipping
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • RV Shipping
  • Heavy Equipment Shipping
  • Boat Shipping
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

East Coast Auto Transport

111 Amaral St, Riverside, RI, 02915
3.94 / 5.0

East Coast Auto Transport (DOT: 1625076) is a car shipping company that provides a range of services, including interstate transport and shipping for electric vehicles and classic cars. Despite their dedication to service, they currently face challenges as reflected in their low Yelp rating of 1.4, although they hold an impressive A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company has yet to establish ratings on Google.

They offer a student discount and the ability to pay by cash, money order, or credit card, catering to a variety of customer preferences. However, a potential downside for some customers is the absence of services such as transporting inoperable cars or providing storage solutions.

Get a Quote (800) 393-1850

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Pay by Money Order
  • Pay by Cash
  • Student Discount
  • Interstate
  • Classic Car Shipping

Virginia Transportation Corp

141 James P Murphy Ind Hwy, West Warwick, RI, 2893
3.8 / 5.0

Virginia Transportation Corp (DOT: 643760) is a car shipping company noted for providing interstate shipping services, with a solid Google rating of 4.3 and a prestigious A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, the company has yet to establish ratings on Yelp, which may be a consideration for some potential customers.

They offer open transport services and facilitate multi-car transport, which is ideal for customers looking to ship multiple vehicles affordably across state lines. A potential downside is that they do not provide enclosed transport options, which might be important for customers needing extra protection for their vehicles. Additionally, while they do not accept cryptocurrency or offer certain discounts, they simplify the payment process by accepting credit card payments without requiring a deposit upfront.

Get a Quote (800) 287-4493

Services Offered

  • Multi Car Transport
  • Open Transport
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate

United Road Services: Davisville

40 Thompson Rd, North Kingstown, RI, 02852
3.78 / 5.0

United Road Services: Davisville (DOT: 2234402) is a car shipping company that offers a wide range of services, including interstate transport, classic car shipping, and the ability to transport electric vehicles. They also provide enclosed transport options for customers seeking additional protection for their vehicles during transit. Despite boasting a high Google rating of 4.8, their reputation on Yelp is less favorable with a rating of 1.7, and they have a BBB rating of B-.

While United Road Services: Davisville doesn’t require a deposit for their services and offers options like motorcycle and multi-car transport, they do not support the transport of inoperable cars or provide shipment tracking, which could be a downside for some customers. Additionally, they do not offer international shipping, which may limit options for those looking to transport vehicles overseas. Payment flexibility is available as they accept credit cards, though cryptocurrency and cash payments are not accepted.

Get a Quote (866) 365-0023

Services Offered

  • Fully Insured
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Open Transport
  • Storage Solutions
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Interstate
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Natales Transport

PO Box 2011, East Greenwich, RI, 02818
3.68 / 5.0

Natales Transport (DOT: 1569601) is an active car shipping business that provides a variety of services including interstate transport, classic car shipping, motorcycle transportation, and the ability to ship inoperable vehicles. They also accommodate electric vehicle shipping and offer options for both open and enclosed transport.

While Natales Transport does not yet have ratings established on Yelp and Google, they assure customers reliable service. A notable downside for some customers might be the lack of storage solutions and the absence of a damage-free guarantee. The company supports multiple payment options, including cash, credit card, and money order, although they do not accept cryptocurrency payments.

Get a Quote (401) 225-7900

Services Offered

  • ATV Shipping
  • Fully Insured
  • Inoperable Car Transport
  • Enclosed Transport
  • Multi Car Transport
  • Electric Vehicle Shipping
  • Military Discount
  • Open Transport
  • Shipment Tracking
  • Pay by Credit Card
  • Pay by Money Order
  • Pay by Cash
  • Interstate
  • Motorcycle Shipping
  • Classic Car Shipping

Shipping Options

When shipping your car from Rhode Island to Florida, you can choose between open and enclosed transport:

Open transport

Open transport is the go-to option for affordable car shipping. Expect delivery from Rhode Island to Florida in around 3 days.

Enclosed transport

Enclosed carriers protect your vehicle from the elements — perfect for classics and exotics. From Rhode Island to Florida, delivery usually takes 8 days.

Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company

The right car shipping company makes all the difference in a successful transport. When choosing a company for your Rhode Island to Florida route, consider factors like:

Prior route experience

Focus on carriers with a strong track record handling routes between Rhode Island and Florida.

Customer reviews

See what others say — past reviews can reveal a lot about the company’s performance.

Pricing

It’s smart to shop around, but be skeptical of deals that undercut the market.

Nexus Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Discounts Available
  • Refundable Deposit

Sherpa Auto Transport

4.8 / 5
  • Price Lock Promise
  • Free car wash

Navi Auto Transport

4.4 / 5
  • Price matching
  • One-day pickup

How Long It Takes to Ship a Car from Rhode Island to Florida

Shipments from Rhode Island to Florida generally take 3-8 days. Your chosen shipping method and flexibility can affect this range. Some companies offer expedited delivery for an extra cost.

Is Rhode Island to Florida a snowbird route?

Yes. This route is common for snowbirds heading south for winter. Demand peaks October through December, so prices can rise as trucks fill up. Booking 2–4 weeks ahead usually helps secure a better rate.

When should snowbirds book car shipping on this route?

Most snowbirds book in October or November for southbound trips and in March or April for the return. If your dates are flexible, ask about wider pickup windows to save money.

Is My Car Insured During Shipping?

Carriers usually offer default insurance, but it may not cover everything. Look closely at the terms and think about backing it up with your own coverage if needed.

How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping

Before your Rhode Island to Florida shipment, give your car a thorough cleaning, note any existing damage, and clear out loose items. Many car shippers recommend keeping the gas tank about one-quarter full.

Receiving Your Car in Florida

As soon as your vehicle is dropped off in Florida, inspect it, sign off on delivery forms, and raise concerns if you spot anything. Then move on to registration and compliance in your new state.

Why Ship a Car from Rhode Island to Florida?

Car shipping from Rhode Island to Florida keeps your vehicle in top shape and saves you the hassle of a long trip. It’s a convenient solution for moves, job changes, or buying out of state.

Mike Marshall
Mike Marshall is a senior contributor at FreightWaves with nearly a decade of focused experience in the trucking, car shipping, and moving industries. His work focuses on breaking down complex logistics topics into clear, practical guidance for consumers and industry professionals alike. Drawing on years of hands-on research and analysis at FreightWaves, Mike brings an insider’s perspective to every article, helping readers understand costs, processes, risks, and best practices across the transportation and relocation space.