Why are car shipping prices higher in summer?

Most household moves happen between late spring and August, when school is out, so demand for the same trucks peaks.

What is snowbird season?

Retirees who winter in warm states ship cars south from about October to December and north again from about March to May. Prices rise in the busy direction during those months.

When is the cheapest time to ship a car?

January and February are typically the cheapest months nationally, apart from routes into snowbird states.

Does weather affect car shipping?

Yes. Snow and ice can close mountain passes and slow northern routes in winter, and hurricane season (June through November) can delay Gulf and Atlantic coast shipments.

How far ahead should I book in peak season?

Two to three weeks ahead is a good rule for summer and snowbird months, and more for enclosed transport.

Car Shipping Seasonality

See which months are cheapest and busiest to ship a car, and plan around summer moves, snowbird season, college terms and winter weather.

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Frequently asked questions

All FAQs

Why are car shipping prices higher in summer?
Most household moves happen between late spring and August, when school is out, so demand for the same trucks peaks.
What is snowbird season?
Retirees who winter in warm states ship cars south from about October to December and north again from about March to May. Prices rise in the busy direction during those months.
Snowbird car shipping
When is the cheapest time to ship a car?
January and February are typically the cheapest months nationally, apart from routes into snowbird states.

Does weather affect car shipping?
Yes. Snow and ice can close mountain passes and slow northern routes in winter, and hurricane season (June through November) can delay Gulf and Atlantic coast shipments.
How far ahead should I book in peak season?
Two to three weeks ahead is a good rule for summer and snowbird months, and more for enclosed transport.
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Check again a few weeks before pickup, when carriers plan their loads.

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