($746) Cost to ship a car from Miami, FL to Columbia, SC
Quick answer: Expect to pay around $746 to $1,044 to ship your car 642 miles from Miami, Florida, to Columbia, South Carolina. The actual cost depends on factors like your vehicle type, shipping method, and the time of year. For a customized estimate, use our car shipping cost calculator.
rating
4.7 / 5
- Refundable deposit
- Discounts available
rating
4.5 / 5
- Price lock promise
- Free car wash
rating
4.4 / 5
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
Shipping a car the reverse route? We've got you covered with our Columbia to Miami car shipping guide.
The best Miami to Columbia car shipping companies
To make your relocation easier, we’ve rounded up the best car shipping companies for transporting a vehicle from Miami to Columbia:
- Best for Real-Time Tracking: Nexus Auto Transport
- Best for accurate pricing: Sherpa Auto Transport
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Navi Auto Transport
- Best for Exact Pickup Dates: SGT Auto Transport
- Best Insurance Coverage: Ship A Car Direct
- GPS tracking
- Instant online quotes
- Economy option
- Ships nationwide
- Easy online scheduling
- Price Lock Promise
- Pay by credit card
- Free car wash at delivery
- No upfront deposit
- Door-to-door service
- Price matching
- One-day pickup
- New customer discount
- White-glove service
- No hidden fees
- Free online quotes
- Door-to-door service in 48 states
- Exact pickup dates
- Ships to & from HI
- Damage-free guarantee
- $500 damage or loss coverage
- No deposit
- Rental car assistance
- Inoperable car shipping
Top local car shippers in Miami
If you’re leaning towards hiring a local car shipper, here are the best car shippers based in Miami, FL:
- Eship: 3.92 out of 5 stars
- National Car Transport: 3.88 out of 5 stars
- Coastal Auto Shipping: 3.8 out of 5 stars
- AutoStar Transport Express: 3.78 out of 5 stars
- SHIP A CAR, INC.: 3.52 out of 5 stars
Eship
7241 NW 43rd Ave, Coconut Creek, FL 33073 US
eshiptransport.com
3.92 / 5.0
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- AAA
- Teacher
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: USDOT 2248101
Alternative Business Names
- eShip Transport
National Car Transport
1800 Nw 135th Ave, Miami, FL 33182 US
nationalcartransport.com
3.88 / 5.0
National Car Transport is recognized for its easy online booking, responsive customer service, and reliable drivers. However, some reviews point out serious issues regarding pricing changes and customer support failures, with allegations of fraudulent practices and unfulfilled promises.
Services Offered
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2231970
Coastal Auto Shipping
8600 NW South River Dr # 201, Medley, FL 33166 US
coastalautoshipping.com
3.8 / 5.0
Coastal Auto Shipping is distinguished by its commitment to quality customer service and timely delivery. Clients express high satisfaction with prompt communication and the professionalism of staff, especially Gerson and Luis, who assist throughout the vehicle shipping process. While most experiences are positive, some customers report challenges with cash transactions and delays in retrieval at delivery locations.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
Discounts
- Military
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2557950
AutoStar Transport Express
80 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33130 US
autostartransport.com
3.78 / 5.0
Customers have praised AutoStar Transport for their quick and efficient service, friendly staff, and reliable communication throughout the process. However, there were concerns about communication lapses once drivers were assigned, particularly related to tracking updates and language barriers with some drivers.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Senior
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2239014
SHIP A CAR, INC.
5645 Coral Ridge Dr SUITE 137, Coral Springs, FL 33076 US
shipacarinc.com
3.52 / 5.0
Customers observed varying experiences in vehicle shipping with Ship A Car, Inc. Many praised the company's effective communication and quick delivery times while others expressed frustration with unreliable service and added costs. Positive remarks highlighted responsive staff members like Bob, Dana, and Lisa for their professionalism and excellent customer service. However, negative feedback indicated issues surrounding broken commitments and accompanying extra fees, and in some cases, damage to vehicles during transport, leading to overall dissatisfaction and recommending caution with service.
Services Offered
- Door-to-door service
- Open transport
- Enclosed transport
- Interstate shipping
- International shipping
- Insured shipping
- Shipment tracking
- Expedited delivery
- Multi-car transport
- Detailed inspection reports
- Storage solutions
- Classic cars
- RVs
- ATVs
- Trailers
- Motorcycles
- Heavy equipment
- Boats
- Electric vehicles
- Inoperable cars
Discounts
- Military
- Student
Additional Information
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
- DOT #: 2303542
How we chose the best car shipping companies
We analyzed 2,400 car shipping companies nationally and evaluated and rated them based on key factors using our unique system of methodology.
Here’s what we considered:
- Standard services: We looked at the types and variety of services each company provides. This includes whether they offer open transport, enclosed transport, or both. We also rated companies based on whether they have door-to-door shipping or just terminal pickup and delivery and the kinds of vehicles they ship. Companies that move RVs, motorcycles, and other specialty vehicles scored higher than those that just ship cars.
- Add-on services: We gave additional points to companies that provide special optional services like expedited shipping, guaranteed pickup times, car washes, and rental car reimbursement.
- Customer satisfaction: We analyzed consumer reviews on multiple major platforms, such as Yelp, Google, and Trustpilot to see whether a car shipping company delivers services promptly with good communication and within the estimated cost. We also evaluated each company’s standing within the car shipping industry as a whole by confirming U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) licensure and checked their membership in — and reputation with — trade associations.
- Availability: We awarded points to each company based on their service areas. Companies that are available in Alaska and Hawaii, in addition to the continental U.S., scored higher than those that just service the Lower 48 or fewer states.
- Scheduling and payment: We reviewed the ease with which customers can schedule services and estimate their costs through accurate quotes, price matching, flat-rate pricing, and other perks. Car shippers that give binding quotes or a price-lock promise got more positive rankings than those that are not as transparent with pricing.
Car shipping alternatives from FL to SC
Getting your car from Miami to Columbia can be done in a few different ways. Here’s a breakdown of your top car shipping options that highlights their advantages and drawbacks.
Coordinate with your movers
If you are relocating from Miami to Columbia, many of the top long-distance moving companies partner with reputable car shippers nationwide and can oversee auto transport for you as part of an overall relocation package. You won’t have to handle the logistics yourself, but you’ll be locked into your mover’s preferred car shipper and their pricing.
Drive your car
Choosing whether to drive or ship your vehicle involves trade-offs. The 642 miles from Miami to Columbia might make for an enjoyable road trip and save you money. But the downsides include added wear on your car and potential risks from weather or long-distance driving.
Use a driving service
Another possibility is paying someone to drive your car from Florida to South Carolina. While convenient, it can be costly, and you’ll want to thoroughly vet the driver before handing over your keys in Miami. No matter who drives, your car will still rack up extra miles on the way to Columbia.
Ship your car via train
If saving money is your priority, shipping a car by train to Columbia is worth considering. It’s not only safe but also the cheapest way to ship a car. The drawback is that there are fewer pickup and drop-off options and longer timelines compared to auto shippers or driving.
Factors affecting Miami to Columbia car shipping costs
When transporting your vehicle from Miami to Columbia, these factors will influence the cost:
Transport method
When shipping your car from Miami to Columbia, you can choose between open, enclosed, or top-loaded transport. The right option depends on your budget and vehicle type.
Open carriers from Miami are generally the most affordable, while enclosed transport offers extra protection for high-end or classic vehicles. Not sure which is best for your move to Columbia? Check out our guide on open vs. enclosed shipping.
Vehicle size and type
The kind of car you’re shipping out of Miami has a major impact on cost. Bigger vehicles require more room and increase the carrier’s load, which drives the price up. That’s why transporting a large SUV to Columbia will cost more than moving a smaller car.
Distance and route
Basically, longer distances mean higher shipping prices. Extra miles drive up fuel usage, labor hours, tolls, and maintenance costs. So moving your car 642 miles from Miami to Columbia will almost always cost more than a shorter in-state trip in Florida.
Location also affects the cost. Shipments along common interstate routes are typically cheaper, while hard-to-reach destinations add to the price.
The time of the year
Seasonal demand and weather patterns in Miami and Columbia often affect the cost of auto transport.
There are two basic seasons in Miami, a hot and wet season from May through October, and a warm and dry season from November through April. During the hot and wet season, daily thundershowers occur in the humid unstable air masses. Hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30, although hurricanes can develop beyond those dates. Be sure to check your weather app, especially during June through November to avoid hurricanes.
If you're considering to move to Columbia, SC, better to consider during October, April and May to make sure weather will be pleasant.
When demand peaks in summer and during holiday seasons, prices rise accordingly. Shipping your car from Miami to Columbia in these high-demand windows typically comes at a premium.
Fuel prices
Because fuel expenses vary, they directly influence the cost of shipping your car. The 642-mile journey from Miami to Columbia makes fuel pricing an especially important factor. If fuel prices climb, you’ll see that reflected in your transport bill.
Delivery expectations
By allowing more flexibility with your delivery window, you could secure discounted rates from your shipper. The process of moving a car from Miami to Columbia usually takes one–six days. Flexible timing helps keep costs down, while expedited shipping shortens the wait for an extra fee.
Comparing Miami and Columbia vehicle regulations
Parking permits
- Miami: The temporary parking of a Category 2 or Category 3 vehicle in front of the building line, or on a right-of-way, is only permitted for the purpose of loading or unloading materials, or while actively engaged in providing commercial service at the premises.
- Columbia: Check with the City of Columbia for details about parking permits and restrictions that you should know about before your move to Columbia.
Car insurance requirements
- Miami: All vehicles registered in Florida must have PIP and PDL insurance coverage at the time of registration with a minimum of $10,000 for PIP and $10,000 for PDL.
- Columbia: In South Carolina, it's a legal requirement for every driver to have liability insurance. Adhering to the state's minimum liability limits, commonly referred to as 25/50/25, entails securing coverage of at least $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage per accident. Stay compliant with these essential insurance standards to drive confidently on South Carolina roads.
Vehicle inspections
- Miami: Unlike many states, Florida does not mandate vehicle owners to undergo regular emission or safety inspections for their vehicles.
- Columbia: Drivers in South Carolina are not required to get a safety, VIN, or emissions inspection for their vehicle.
Driver’s license
- Miami: If you possess a valid driver's license from another state, you are legally permitted to drive in Florida without obtaining a Florida driver's license. However, if you choose to obtain one, you only need to pass a vision and hearing test, no written or road test is necessary.
- Columbia: If you are moving to South Carolina, you will be required to obtain a South Carolina driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency in the state.
FAQ
How much does it cost to ship a car from Miami to Columbia?
The cost to ship a car from Miami, FL to Columbia, SC varies based on several factors, including the type of transport (open vs. enclosed car shipping), vehicle size and weight, and the current fuel prices. On average, transporting your vehicle from Miami to Columbia will range from $746 to $1,044.
How long will it take to ship my car from Miami to Columbia?
It will take approximately one to six days to ship your car the 642 miles from Miami to Columbia. If you need it quicker, ask your shipper about expedited delivery.
What’s the cheapest way to ship my car from Miami to Columbia?
An open-transport car carrier is the cheapest way to ship your car from Miami to Columbia. However, there are other methods. Read our post on the cheapest way to ship a car to learn more.
Is it cheaper to ship my car or drive it from Miami to Columbia?
It is generally cheaper to drive your car from Miami to Columbia than to ship it. However, when deciding whether to drive your car or ship it, you need to factor in related costs like maintenance fees that could result from the additional wear-and-tear on your vehicle during the 642-mile trip. Long-distance trips also involve food and possibly lodging, which can add up quickly.
We recommend that you reach out to at least a few of the top car shippers to ask about seasonal rates and auto transport discounts. You can also use our car shipping calculator to quickly generate and compare quotes from multiple companies.