Snowbirds vs. Sunbirds vs. Zoombirds: A Seasonal Migration Guide
Posted on 9/17/2026
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Snowbirds are a well-known group of seasonal travelers, but they aren't the only ones moving throughout the year. Recently, groups known as "sunbirds" and "zoombirds" have gained popularity among seasonal travelers. While their reasons for moving look different on the surface, all three share one thing in common—they need a reliable way to move their vehicles between homes.
Here's a closer look at who these travelers are, where they're headed, and how they manage their moves.
Who are snowbirds, sunbirds, and zoombirds?
The snowbird
The snowbird is the original seasonal traveler. Typically retirees or older adults, snowbirds follow the warm weather south when temperatures drop, returning home when spring arrives. Their moves are predictable, their routes are well-worn, and their timing is consistent: south in the fall, north in the spring.
Common snowbird origins:
Common snowbird destinations:
The sunbird
The sunbird is the snowbird's lesser-known counterpart, and a more recent phenomenon. As summers grow hotter across the South and Southwest, more residents are heading north to escape rising temperatures, seeking cooler climates for the summer months before returning home in early fall. Where snowbirds follow the heat, sunbirds are escaping from it.
Common sunbird origins:
Common sunbird destinations:
The zoombird
The zoombird is the newest member of the seasonal migration club. They are a product of the remote work revolution. Free from a fixed work location, zoombirds move based on a combination of weather, culture, cost of living, and lifestyle. Some follow the seasons like snowbirds and sunbirds. Others simply go wherever makes the most sense for their life at any given time.
Zoombirds moving from major metro hubs:
- Origins: California, Illinois, New York, Washington
- Top Destinations: Texas, Tennessee, Colorado, Florida
Zoombirds escaping high-cost cities:
- Origins: California, Illinois, New York, Washington
- Destinations: Florida, North Carolina, Montana, Arizona
How Montway fits into your schedule
At first glance, these three lifestyles couldn't look more different. One is trading snow boots for sandals. Another is fleeing the heat for the mountains. The third is just looking for the best combination of Wi-Fi and weather. But all three share the same need: a reliable, hassle-free way to get their vehicle to wherever they're headed next.
Regardless of which type of seasonal traveler you are, every Montway shipment includes:
- Transparent costs with our TruePrice Guarantee™ —no bait-and-switch tactics, no surprise fees.
- Enclosed shipping for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles that need extra protection.
- Responsive, end-to-end customer support from booking through delivery.
- Real-time shipment tracking so you always know the status of your vehicle.
Montway for snowbirds
Snowbirds make the same trip twice a year, every year. The last thing you want is to spend days behind the wheel when you could be on a flight to your next destination. Montway's dedicated snowbird car shipping service handles the drive so you don't have to.
- Dedicated snowbird car shipping helps you avoid days on the road
- Door-to-door transport picks up your vehicle from your home and delivers it to your seasonal address.
- Returning customers receive a discount on their seasonal shipments.
Montway for sunbirds
Sunbirds often move during the same busy stretch of summer when families, students, and military families are also on the move. Open transport is the best option for most sunbirds—it's the most widely available transport method, with the largest carrier network and the most flexible scheduling.
- Open transport maximizes carrier availability during peak moving season
- If an unexpected heatwave has you moving sooner than planned, Montway's expedited car shipping service offers guaranteed pickup within 24–48 hours of booking
Montway for zoombirds
Zoombirds move on their own terms, making flexibility a must-have for these spontaneous travelers. Montway's booking process is built around that flexibility.
- No payment is required until your shipment is scheduled for pickup so you can plan ahead without committing early.
- Ship up to 100 lbs of personal belongings in your trunk or cargo area, which means one less thing to pack separately.
Seasonal moves made easy
Seasonal relocation is about upgrading your quality of life. Whether that means warmer winters, cooler summers, or just a change of scenery that suits the way you work and live. The last thing you want is to kick off that fresh start with a multi-day drive. By letting Montway handle your transport, you can hop on a flight, focus on work, or simply arrive rested and ready to enjoy wherever you're headed next.
Get a free instant quote or call 888-666-8929 to speak with a shipping advisor.
Seasonal transport FAQs
When should I book seasonal transport?
Book at least two to three weeks before your first available pickup date. The earlier you book, the more flexibility you'll have on timing—you might be able to secure a lower rate, too. Snowbirds in particular should aim to book as far in advance as possible, since fall and spring are peak seasons for south and north-bound shipments.
Do I have to be present while my car is being picked up, or do I need to stay home all day?
You don't need to be there personally, but someone you trust who is 18 or older should be present at both pickup and delivery. They'll need to inspect the vehicle and sign the Bill of Lading, which documents the condition of your car at the time of pickup and delivery.
What if I’m shipping to a gated community or a neighborhood with tight streets?
If a truck can't safely access your street or community, the driver will coordinate a convenient nearby alternative (a nearby parking lot, a main road, or another mutually agreed-upon location). Montway's team will communicate any logistics ahead of time so there are no surprises on pickup or delivery day.
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