Government Rules and Regulations for Car Shipping in Miami, Florida
Miami is a coastal city in the U.S. state of Florida, and if you want to transport your vehicle to or from Miami, you need to follow the rules and regulations imposed by government. Whether you’re an auto dealer, a snowbird moving seasonally, or relocating permanently, understanding these regulations ensures your vehicle transport goes smoothly and legally.
Car shipping in Miami FL, is governed by a network of federal, state, and local laws designed to protect consumers and maintain safety standards. Once you understand these rules and regulations, these rules help you avoid delays, fines, and legal trouble. In this guide we will deeply discuss the government rules and regulations for car shipping in Miami.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Regulations
The FMCSA governs interstate vehicle shipping, and here all auto transport companies must be registered with the FMCSA and possess a valid Motor Carrier (MC) number and a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number.
Major Requirements:
- Insurance: The FMCSA mandates a minimum liability coverage of $750,000 for vehicle haulers, although many carriers carry more (up to $1 million or more).
- Licensing: Brokers and carriers must be licensed separately. You can verify these credentials through the FMCSA database.
- Compliance with Hours of Service (HOS): Drivers must comply with federal HOS regulations to avoid fatigue-related incidents.
Whenever you hire a shipping company, you must ask about their MC number and check their complaint history and safety record through the FMCSA portal.
If you’re shipping your car for the first time, don’t worry. Here’s a complete guide on how to transport a car. This guide is created to educate you about the methods of car shipping.
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) Regulations:
For vehicle shipping within Florida or from Florida to another state, the FLHSMV plays a key role.
Main Points:
- All vehicles being shipped must have valid registration and license plates. If you’re shipping a newly purchased car, temporary tags may be used.
- For vehicles bought or sold during transport, title transfers must be completed according to Florida law, either electronically or via mail within 30 days.
The government of Florida does not allow the transport of unregistered or salvaged vehicles on public roads unless they are being towed with proper permits.
If you’re shipping a vehicle without license plates, it’s important to understand the specific requirements; check out our detailed guide on how to transport a car without license plates
Regulations of Miami City:
Usually regulations apply from the federal and local government for shipping of vehicles. Local Miami laws can affect shipping logistics—especially regarding pickup and drop-off locations.
Restrictions from Local Government:
- From the Local government of Miami, transporters have been restricted regarding parking zones. Transport trucks are prohibited from parking or idling in many residential and commercial areas.
- Any oversized vehicle required a special permit, if it exceeds standard length or height, especially when operating in congested zones like Downtown Miami or Miami Beach.
You always coordinate with your transporter to confirm if a terminal-to-terminal delivery option is available to avoid neighborhood restrictions.
Laws of Insurance and Liability:
Florida law outlines how liability is handled during vehicle transport.
Types of Insurance:
- While your vehicle is in transit, here you need carrier insurance, it will cover for any damage.
- Recommend the Gap insurance if the carrier’s coverage doesn’t fully protect high-value vehicles.
As per laws of Florida, you can file claims within 7 to 14 days of delivery if there’s damage, depending on your carrier’s terms. Always inspect your car thoroughly upon delivery and document everything.
Also, check the red flags of that company to reduce the risk of being scammed.
Emergency Protocols:
Miami and Florida may impose emergency transportation regulations during natural disasters like hurricanes. During natural disasters like hurricanes, vehicle transport can be halted or rerouted in emergencies.
If you want to know more about beyond car shipping rules, you’re not alone! We’ve put together a complete Useful Information section packed with practical tips, helpful resources, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about auto transport.
Summary
If you are shipping your vehicle to or from Miami, you should double-check that your vehicle’s registration is current, and that all documentation (title, proof of insurance, and identification) is accessible in case it’s needed during transit or upon arrival.
Always work with a licensed, insured, and experienced carrier who understands the nuances of Florida’s vehicle transport laws.
John Furbush
Author & Owner of 2 J's Auto Transport
2J's Auto Transport Car Shipping Service
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