Shipping auto, boats, and carts in and out of the Florida Keys

Shipping a Car from Orlando to Key West

by | Jul 2, 2025

Orlando Auto Shipping

Shipping a Car from Orlando to Key West: Route and Stops

Shipping a car from Orlando to Key West is a practical option for those looking to relocate, visit, or send a vehicle to the southernmost point of the continental U.S. without the wear and tear of a long drive. This article outlines the process of shipping a car along this route, the primary route taken, estimated costs and timelines, and notable stops along the way for those interested in exploring the journey. Driving from Orlando to Key West covers approximately 373-400 miles and takes about 6.5 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and stops. The route involves navigating Florida’s busy highways and the scenic but narrow Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys, which can be stressful, especially during peak tourist seasons or hurricane season (June to November). Shipping a car saves time, reduces vehicle wear, and avoids challenges like tolls, traffic, and limited parking in Key West.

Orlando to Key West

The Car Shipping Process

Choosing a Car Shipping Company

Selecting a reliable auto transport company is crucial. Look for providers with experience, proper licensing, and insurance coverage (at least $1,000,000 in liability and $100,000 in cargo insurance). Broker companies like Sherpa Auto Transport, and Auto Shipping HUB offer door-to-door services to and from Orlando and Key West.

  • Open vs. Enclosed Transport: Open transport is the most cost-effective option, suitable for standard vehicles, while enclosed transport, which is about 50% more expensive, is ideal for luxury or classic cars to protect against Florida’s intense sun or potential tropical storms.
  • Preparation: Remove personal items, toll passes, and fragile accessories from the vehicle. Ensure the car has about a quarter tank of gas and is clean for inspection. Disable alarms to avoid issues during loading.
  • Booking Tips: Book at least two weeks in advance to optimize routes and potentially secure discounts. Flexibility in pickup and delivery dates can also reduce costs.
  • Broker vs Carrier: It’s simple, carriers like In-N-Out Keys will offer a more direct experience. Brokers need to find a driver and sometimes that driver is unqualified. Check ratings on the broker and the carrier they provide.

Estimated Costs and Timelines

The cost to ship a car from Orlando to Key West varies based on distance, vehicle type, transport method, and seasonality. Prices typically range from $500 to $1,050, with open transport being the cheapest. Key West’s remote location in the Florida Keys makes it one of the more expensive destinations in Florida due to limited carrier capacity and narrow roads requiring smaller trailers.

  • Distance and Transit Time: The route is roughly 373-400 miles, and carriers can travel about 500 miles per day. Transit time is typically 1-3 days from booking to pickup, with delivery within 1-2 days after pickup, depending on the carrier’s schedule.
  • Seasonal Factors: Prices may increase during peak tourist seasons (spring break, summer) or snowbird migration (October to April). Hurricane season can also cause delays.

The Route: Orlando to Key West

The primary route for shipping a car from Orlando to Key West follows Florida’s Turnpike and US-1 (Overseas Highway), which is also the route drivers would take. This is the East Coast route, preferred for its shorter distance (about 400 miles) and scenic coastal views compared to the longer West Coast route via I-75. Carriers typically use major highways for efficiency, avoiding Miami’s heavy traffic by staying on the Turnpike until it merges with US-1 south of Florida City.

Key Stops Along the Route

While car shipping is a direct process, the route offers several notable stops for those driving or planning a road trip to accompany the shipment. Here are some highlights along the East Coast route, ideal for exploration:

  1. Orlando Attractions (Mile 0)
    • Before shipping, consider visiting Orlando’s iconic theme parks like Walt Disney World Resort, which spans four parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom). Universal Orlando and SeaWorld are also popular. These attractions are perfect for families or visitors starting their journey.
    • Why Stop?: A fun way to kick off the trip, especially if you’re in Orlando for a vacation.
  2. Fort Pierce (Mile ~130)
    • A quaint beach town along I-95, Fort Pierce offers a relaxed coastal vibe with the Fort Pierce Inlet State Park and the Navy SEAL Museum. It’s a great spot for a quick break or beach stroll.
    • Why Stop?: Ideal for a low-key stop to enjoy Florida’s east coast beaches without the crowds of larger cities.
  3. West Palm Beach (Mile ~190)
    • Known for its blend of arts, live music, and urban charm, West Palm Beach is a great place to rest. Visit the Norton Museum of Art or stroll through CityPlace for shopping and dining.
    • Why Stop?: A vibrant city to reenergize with cultural attractions and nightlife.
  4. Miami Beach (Mile ~230)
    • Before reaching the Keys, Miami Beach offers pristine beaches, the Art Deco Historic District, and Ocean Drive’s lively nightlife. Explore Little Havana for Cuban culture or relax at Lummus Park.
    • Why Stop?: Perfect for experiencing South Florida’s vibrant culture and cuisine.
  5. Everglades National Park (Mile ~250)
    • Just off the route near Florida City, the Everglades offers airboat tours, wildlife viewing (alligators, birds), and trails like the Anhinga Trail. The Long Pine Key Campground is a good option for nature lovers, though it’s closed from May to October.
    • Why Stop?: A chance to explore Florida’s unique ecosystem and natural beauty.
  6. Key Largo (Mile ~300)
    • The first major key on US-1, Key Largo is a diving paradise with the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, home to the Florida Barrier Reef. Snorkeling, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours are popular.
    • Why Stop?: Great for water activities and a taste of the Keys’ laid-back vibe.
  7. Marathon (Mile ~350)
    • Known for Sombrero Beach and the Seven Mile Bridge, Marathon offers white sands, water sports, and stunning ocean views. The Turtle Hospital is a unique attraction for animal lovers.
    • Why Stop?: A scenic stop for beach time or a bike ride across the iconic bridge.
  8. Key West (Mile ~400)
    • The final destination, Key West, is famous for Duval Street’s nightlife, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and the Southernmost Point buoy. Snorkeling, fishing, and sunset celebrations at Mallory Square are must-dos.
    • Why Stop?: The culmination of the journey with a vibrant, historic, and walkable island experience. Parking is limited, so shipping the car and exploring on foot or by bike is ideal.

Alternative Options

If shipping a car isn’t your preference, consider these alternatives:

  • Auto Broker: Inquire with Orlando Auto Shipping for availability. They might have a driver in the area that would qualify.
  • Driving: The Turnpike to US-1 is the fastest route, taking about 7 hours. Avoid I-95 to bypass Miami traffic.
  • Flying: Direct flights from Orlando (MCO or SFB) to Key West (EYW) take about 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 49 minutes, costing $150-$600.
  • Bus: FlixBus offers affordable tickets ($59.98-$150) from Orlando to Key West, taking about 10 hours 52 minutes with stops in Miami and Big Pine Key.
  • Ferry: From Fort Myers, the Key West Express provides a scenic 3.5-hour ferry ride, though it requires driving to Fort Myers first.

Tips for a Smooth Shipping Experience

  • Check Carrier Credentials: Verify the company’s licensing and insurance. Read reviews for reliability.
  • Plan for Key West’s Challenges: The Keys’ narrow roads and high demand can increase costs and delay delivery. Consider meeting the carrier in Miami to save money.
  • Avoid Peak Seasons: Schedule outside of hurricane season or peak tourist times for better pricing and availability.
  • Track Your Shipment: Many companies offer online tracking for peace of mind.

Our Conclusion

Contacting In-N-Out Keys to gather more info about shipping a car from Orlando to Key West is a convenient way to avoid the long drive and enjoy the destination without the hassle of navigating the Overseas Highway. By choosing a reputable carrier, preparing your vehicle, and planning around seasonal factors, you can ensure a smooth process. The East Coast route via Florida’s Turnpike and US-1 offers opportunities to explore vibrant cities, natural wonders, and the scenic Florida Keys. Whether you’re relocating or vacationing, shipping your car allows you to focus on enjoying the journey and Key West’s unique charm.