Car shipping is the process of moving your vehicle with a professional auto transport company. For a Florida to Illinois shipment, your car will travel about 1,334 miles. Transit often takes 1–5 days, depending on the pickup location, delivery location, weather, and road conditions. If you are new to car shipping, it helps to know the difference between a broker and a carrier.
A broker, such as Sakaem Logistics, arranges your shipment. The broker gives you a quote, answers questions, and finds a carrier with space on a truck. The carrier is the company that operates the truck and moves your vehicle. A reputable broker should work with carriers that have strong reviews, proper authority, and valid insurance. This check helps protect your vehicle during the Florida to Illinois auto transport process.
The process starts when you call a broker to request a quote and provide basic details about your vehicle, pickup location, and delivery location. After you book, the broker searches for a suitable carrier. Once a carrier accepts the shipment, you receive pickup details and prepare the car for transport.
At pickup, the carrier inspects the vehicle and records its condition. You should review this inspection report and note any existing marks. The carrier then loads your car and begins the trip. During transit, the carrier may provide updates as the vehicle travels from Florida to Illinois.
At delivery, inspect the car again before signing the final paperwork. Confirm that its condition matches the pickup report. You then pay the broker or carrier at pickup or delivery, according to your agreement. For a broader overview, see the car shipping process.
Before pickup, clear personal items and valuables from the car. The vehicle must roll, steer, and brake so the carrier can load it safely. Leave about a quarter tank of gas. Standard vehicles often travel on an open transport trailer, while high-end, classic, or especially valuable cars may be better suited to an enclosed trailer.