Table of contents
Quick answer
The best time to ship a car is usually late fall through winter, especially January and February, outside snowbird routes. Summer and major holidays are the most expensive. Book one to two weeks ahead, or two to three weeks in peak season.
Demand by month
| Months | Demand | What's happening |
|---|---|---|
| January–February | Lower | Fewer moves; best prices outside routes into warm states |
| March–May | Rising | Snowbirds head north; spring moves begin |
| June–August | Highest | Peak household moving season |
| September | Moderate | College move-ins wind down |
| October–December | Mixed | Snowbirds head south; holiday weeks get busy |
January–February
- Demand
- Lower
- What's happening
- Fewer moves; best prices outside routes into warm states
March–May
- Demand
- Rising
- What's happening
- Snowbirds head north; spring moves begin
June–August
- Demand
- Highest
- What's happening
- Peak household moving season
September
- Demand
- Moderate
- What's happening
- College move-ins wind down
October–December
- Demand
- Mixed
- What's happening
- Snowbirds head south; holiday weeks get busy
Times to avoid if you can
- Late May through August on major moving routes
- The week before major holidays
- Southbound to Florida, Arizona or Texas from October to December
- Northbound from warm states from March to May
- Month-end, when many leases and moves start
How far ahead to book
| Situation | Book ahead |
|---|---|
| Standard open transport, off-season | About 1 week |
| Summer or snowbird season | 2–3 weeks |
| Enclosed transport | 2–3 weeks |
| Firm deadline | As early as possible, or expedited |
Standard open transport, off-season
- Book ahead
- About 1 week
Summer or snowbird season
- Book ahead
- 2–3 weeks
Enclosed transport
- Book ahead
- 2–3 weeks
Firm deadline
- Book ahead
- As early as possible, or expedited
Weather and seasonal disruptions
Winter storms can close mountain passes and slow northern routes from December through March. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30 and can delay pickups and deliveries along the Gulf and East Coasts.
Frequently asked questions
What day of the week is cheapest to ship a car?
Midweek pickups are often cheaper than weekends, but a flexible multi-day window matters more than the exact day.
When should snowbirds ship their cars?
Book early for October to December trips south and March to May trips north, or ship just before the rush.
Snowbird car shippingWhen should I ship a car to college?
Aim for a week or two before move-in, and avoid the busiest move-in weekend.
College car shipping
About this article
Written and reviewed by the Haulwide editorial team. Editorial policy
