One of the most common questions customers ask when planning to ship their vehicle is: “How long will car shipping take?” The truth is, delivery times depend on several factors, from the distance of your move to the route, season, and type of transport you choose. Knowing what to expect will help you plan better, reduce stress, and feel confident that your car is in good hands.
At Mint Quality Auto Transport, we believe in being upfront with our customers. With more than 100 years of combined experience in the industry, we’ve shipped tens of thousands of vehicles nationwide and know exactly how to estimate realistic delivery times. In this guide, we’ll break down how long car shipping usually takes, what affects delivery times, and how you can prepare for a smooth experience.
Average Car Shipping Timeframes
While each shipment is unique, here’s a general idea of how long car shipping typically takes:
- Short Distance (0–500 miles): 1–3 days
- Medium Distance (500–1,500 miles): 3–7 days
- Long Distance (1,500+ miles): 7–14 days
For example, if you’re transporting your car from Fort Myers, Florida, to Atlanta, Georgia, you can usually expect delivery in about 2–3 days. A snowbird shipping a car from New York to Florida should expect 5–7 days, while a coast-to-coast trip from Florida to California may take up to two weeks.
👉 Want to know your exact timeframe? Request Your Free Quote Today and we’ll give you a clear estimate based on your route.
Factors That Affect Car Shipping Time
Several elements can influence how long it takes for your car to be delivered. Understanding these factors helps you set realistic expectations.
1. Distance and Route
The longer the distance, the more time your shipment will take. A vehicle traveling across the country will naturally require more days than a short in-state move.
- Popular Routes: Cars shipped along common routes (like Florida to New York) may move faster because carriers frequently service those areas.
- Less Common Routes: Rural or less-traveled routes may take longer due to fewer carriers operating there.
2. Pickup and Delivery Locations
- Urban Areas: If you live near a major city or highway, carriers can often reach you faster.
- Rural Areas: Remote pickup or drop-off locations may add extra time since drivers must go out of their way.
3. Season and Demand
- Snowbird Season (Winter/Spring): Demand increases as thousands of travelers ship their cars to and from Florida. This can affect scheduling.
- Summer Moves: Families relocating in the summer may create longer wait times.
- Weather Conditions: Hurricanes, snowstorms, or heavy rains can delay shipping schedules.
4. Transport Type (Open vs. Enclosed)
- Open Carrier Transport: More common, faster scheduling due to higher availability.
- Enclosed Carrier Transport: May take longer since fewer enclosed carriers are available.
5. Delivery Speed Options
- Standard Shipping: The most affordable option, with flexible timing.
- Expedited Shipping: Costs more but guarantees faster pickup and delivery.
Florida Car Shipping Timeframes
Since Florida is one of the busiest auto transport states, here’s what you can expect for common routes:
- New York to Florida: 5–7 days
- New Jersey to Florida: 4–6 days
- Ohio to Florida: 3–5 days
- Texas to Florida: 5–7 days
- California to Florida: 7–14 days
Snowbirds who ship vehicles between Florida and northern states should plan ahead and book early to avoid delays during peak season.
What to Expect on Pickup and Delivery Day
Pickup Day
- Your driver will inspect your vehicle and complete a Bill of Lading (condition report).
- Cars are loaded onto the carrier—sometimes the same day, sometimes within 24–48 hours of your scheduled pickup window.
In Transit
- Standard shipments may include multiple stops to pick up or drop off other vehicles, which affects delivery time.
- Drivers provide updates, and you can always reach out to our support team for status checks.
Delivery Day
- Upon arrival, the driver will inspect your car again to ensure it’s in the same condition.
- You’ll sign off on the delivery and receive your keys.
How to Prepare Your Car for Faster Shipping
- Book Early: Secure your transport in advance, especially during busy seasons.
- Be Flexible: Flexible pickup and delivery dates make scheduling easier and faster.
- Choose Urban Locations: Meeting your driver in a larger city or along a highway can speed up the process.
- Communicate Clearly: Provide accurate addresses and contact information to avoid delays.
Why Choose Mint Quality Auto Transport?
When time matters, you need a company you can trust. Here’s why thousands of customers rely on us:
- Veteran-owned with 100+ years of experience in auto transport.
- Transparent time estimates—no false promises.
- Nationwide coverage, with a focus on busy Florida routes.
- 24/7 customer support to keep you updated.
- Trusted by snowbirds, families, and dealerships nationwide.
👉 Don’t wonder when your car will arrive—Request Your Free Auto Transport Quote Today and get a reliable timeframe tailored to your trip.
FAQs About Car Shipping Times
How far in advance should I book car shipping?
We recommend booking 7–10 days in advance, though last-minute options may be available.
Can my car arrive earlier than expected?
Yes, sometimes carriers complete routes faster depending on traffic, weather, and number of stops.
What if my car is delayed?
Weather, traffic, or mechanical issues can occasionally cause delays. At Mint Quality, we keep you informed every step of the way.
Does expedited shipping guarantee delivery?
Expedited shipping ensures priority scheduling and faster delivery, but exact times may still be affected by weather or traffic.
Are pickup and delivery dates guaranteed?
Delivery windows are estimates, but we provide realistic timeframes and constant communication.
Request Your Free Car Shipping Quote Today
So, how long will car shipping take? The answer depends on distance, route, season, and service type—but with the right company, you’ll always know what to expect.
At Mint Quality Auto Transport, we combine experience, reliability, and outstanding customer care to give you peace of mind. Whether you’re moving across Florida, heading north for the summer, or relocating across the country, we’ll get your car where it needs to be—safely and on time.
👉 Request Your Free Vehicle Transport Quote Today and ship with confidence.