Author(s)
Why spend the winter somewhere cold and snowy when there’s plenty of warm weather to enjoy across the Southern United States? That’s the mindset of seasonal residents, often called “snowbirds,” and it makes perfect sense. Who wouldn’t want to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors year-round?
Most seasonal movers fly south before the cold sets in and head back north as the snow thaws. That means they’re mostly traveling in the fall and spring. Just like the weather during these seasons, the auto transport landscape goes through some big changes that can impact a snowbird’s car shipping plans.
This guide outlines the biggest differences between fall car shipping and spring car shipping. Read on to learn how auto transport is affected by seasonality, how to prepare for shipping according to the season, and other helpful tips.
Auto transport during snowbird season
Snowbird season refers to the months when a seasonal traveler is away from their primary residence, enjoying the climate of a warmer state. While the snowbird lifestyle offers a much-needed respite from harsh winters, moving between residences can be complicated and time consuming—especially when it comes to transportation.
For those planning to stay at their winter getaway for months at a time, they’ll likely need some form of transportation. Renting a car or relying on rideshare services is inconvenient and costly, and reliable public transportation isn’t available everywhere. A personal vehicle is most people’s preference, but it comes with the challenge of getting the car to and from its destination.
Driving south in the fall and back north in the spring is possible but not ideal. For example, one of the most popular snowbird routes is from New York to Florida—a distance of about 1,300 miles. This type of long road trip involves time, fuel, mileage, and possible vehicle repairs. To avoid these speed bumps, many snowbirds and seasonal residents opt for professional auto transport.
Shipping a car to your destination is surprisingly easy and can be more convenient, safer, and less costly than driving it. Best of all, professional auto transport supports the snowbird lifestyle of leisurely adventure—no wonder so many seasonal residents rely on car transport year after year!
Seasonal differences in auto transport
Knowing how the season will impact the transport process is important for budgeting and planning a smooth car shipment. When it comes to auto transport, the factors that are most affected by season are shipping costs, transit times, and the steps involved in preparation.
Fall auto transport
Most snowbirds prepare for their migrations in the fall so they’re settled before the winter months. Fall marks the end of the busy moving season and is a slower time in the auto transport industry than spring and summer. However, fall and winter may come with harsh weather conditions that require extra attention.
Cost: Car shipping prices change based on the weather, trucker availability, fuel prices, and other factors directly tied to the season. For those reasons, shipping a vehicle in the fall can often be more affordable than in the spring because there is less demand for movers.
Transit times: It’s not uncommon for truck drivers to encounter delays from unexpected weather conditions or have to move more slowly on their route for the safety of their truck and the other vehicles on the road. While transit times can be affected by cold weather and snow in the winter, it’s often easier to find an auto transporter that can work with your timeline during low-demand months.
Preparation: Preparing a vehicle for shipping is relatively easy, but there are some extra precautions worth taking during the fall and winter months. Depending on the value of the vehicle being shipped, it may be worth shipping via enclosed transport to protect it from snow, sleet, hail, road salt, and other harsh outdoor elements.
- Inspection: Clear your vehicle of any snow or ice and document any pre-existing damage.
- Fluid and battery check: Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready by topping off any fluids, like antifreeze. If you’re shipping an EV, make sure your battery is charged between 45 and 65%.
- Tires: Cold weather can lead to flat tires. Check and adjust tire pressure as needed.
Spring auto transport
As temperatures rise and the days get longer, snowbirds and seasonal travelers make their way back north. Spring is the end of the snowbird season, and it also coincides with the start of the moving season. While travel conditions are easier, demand for moving services is higher.
Cost: Car shipping costs in the spring and summer can be more expensive because of higher demand. Most Americans move during these months, and there is significant overlap with snowbirds returning north from their winter homes. May is National Moving Month and marks the start of the moving season—the months when prices are highest and movers are the hardest to book.
Transit times: Things move more smoothly in the auto transport industry in the warmer months. That’s because carriers have less harsh, unpredictable weather conditions in most locations, so there are fewer delays. Plus, since there’s more demand for shipping and loads are picked up faster, you may even get your car more quickly. However, hurricanes and storms can still impact transit times in the spring.
See our guide to estimated average transit times for more information.
Preparation: Spring car shipping doesn’t require much outside of the standard preparation process. The most important thing is to plan to secure pickup and drop-off dates as demand for movers increases. May through September is the busiest time of year for moving, so truckers are in high demand and working on tight schedules.
Prepare your car for shipping checklist. This helpful checklist highlights the eight essential steps to prepare your car for shipping.
More tips for seasonal auto transport
Ship Your Car to Another State: Everything You Need to Know
Whether you’re shipping down south for the winter or back north to your primary residence, this comprehensive guide includes everything you need to know about shipping your car to another state. Discover which method of car shipping is best for you, find answers to frequently asked questions, and much more.
7 Tips on How to Ship Your Car to Another State
Review these helpful tips before you book your shipment and send your car on its journey. You’ll learn how to identify a quality auto transport company, what paperwork you’ll need to prepare, and other helpful insights from industry experts.
Snowbird Auto Transport Services
Discover how Montway caters to snowbirds with nationwide auto transport services. Take advantage of premium shipping services and discounts designed to save you time and money. Whether you’re flying south for the winter or returning to your summer residence, Montway is one of the top-rated car shipping companies for seasonal movers.
Top-rated seasonal car shipping
With nearly 20 years of experience and over 1 million satisfied customers, Montway Auto Transport has earned its reputation as a leader in the auto transport industry. When you’re ready to get started, click for a free instant quote. Montway’s dedicated customer service representatives are available at 888-666-8929 or via LiveChat.
