Are you planning to ship your car but are not sure when to do it? The best time to ship your vehicle largely depends on the reason for shipping. Whether you’re relocating for a job, moving as a snowbird, or part of a military transfer, each situation comes with a specific timeframe. However, it’s important to mention that shipping during certain seasons or times of the year can be more expensive.
Keep reading this guide by BAH Logistics to discover the best time to ship your car without breaking the bank.
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How Seasonality Affects Car Shipping Prices
Understanding how seasons affect shipping helps you plan better for a smooth vehicle transport experience. Demand for vehicle shipping tends to rise and fall during certain seasons and holidays. Here are the key factors that affect the car shipping process and auto transport prices:
- Peak vs. off-peak seasons. In the United States, peak seasons occur in spring and summer when car sales increase, leading to higher demand for transportation services. Off-peak seasons, fall and winter, experience lower demand for car shipping. These months come with weather challenges, including snow and ice, which can delay shipments. The holiday season, especially around Christmas and New Year’s, also creates a rush, impacting shipping schedules and prices.
- Supply and demand. In spring and summer, demand for car shipping rises as people relocate, purchase vehicles, or move for the summer. This period also sees an increase in snowbirds migrating from warmer southern regions back to the northern areas. During this peak season, there may be fewer carriers available, leading to potential delays and higher costs. Starting in September, demand typically decreases, resulting in lower prices and faster service.
- Weather conditions. Weather conditions play a significant role in car shipping prices. In winter, severe weather can complicate shipping, leading to higher costs and potential delays. Shipping vehicles at the beginning of fall is similar to spring, as moderate weather conditions contribute to safer driving. Spring and summer are the ideal seasons for car shipping. Mild and consistent weather creates safe driving conditions and more transport options.
Cheapest Times of the Year to Ship a Car
Seasonal fluctuations can help you determine the best times of the year to ship your car and save money. Let’s take a closer look at the times when shipping a car is most affordable.
Winter (Except Holidays)
During the winter season, car shipping costs are generally lower due to reduced demand. This is typically a slower period for car shipping companies, making it an ideal time for budget-conscious customers to ship their vehicles. However, holiday periods like Christmas and New Year’s tend to drive up prices due to increased demand. During the winter months, states like Florida, Arizona, and other popular warm-weather destinations see higher demand as snowbirds migrate south. Outside of the holiday rush, this period remains more affordable for those shipping vehicles to or from these regions. Additionally, the post-holiday lull means carriers are actively seeking more shipments, which further lowers costs.
Most Expensive Times to Ship a Car
Certain times of the year see increased demand for car shipping, which can drive up rates. Below are different periods when car shipping costs are typically higher.
Spring (March – May)
Spring marks the end of snowbird season and coincides with the start of the moving season. The weather is generally mild across much of the U.S., reducing the risk of delays due to weather conditions. During this time, as snowbirds begin heading back to the northern states, demand for car shipping increases in states like New York, New Jersey, Michigan, Illinois, and other northern regions. May marks the beginning of the peak moving season. During these months, prices tend to be higher, and car shipping companies experience high demand.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is marked by bustling activity, and several factors contribute to making it a peak shipping season. With the academic year concluding, many families and students relocate, and companies often move employees. Additionally, the summer months coincide with the vacation period, meaning there may be fewer transport carriers available. This limited availability can further push up prices and potentially lead to delays.
Pro Tips for Saving Money on Car Shipping
With careful planning and a few strategic decisions, you can save money and avoid costly seasonal price hikes. Here are some essential tips to help you save on car shipping:
- Book in advance. Even if you’re shipping your car during a busy season, booking your shipment several months in advance can lead to significant savings. Last-minute bookings are often more expensive, so securing your shipment early guarantees a better price.
- Be flexible with pickup and delivery dates. Many car shipping companies offer flexible pickup and delivery dates. By being open to different scheduling options, you can choose a more affordable time frame that fits your needs. Flexibility can lead to lower costs as shipping companies have more room to optimize their routes.
- Choose open transport over enclosed. There are different types of car carriers, and open transport is usually the more cost-effective option. While enclosed carriers provide added protection for your vehicle, open transport is the most common method and tends to come at a lower cost.
- Compare quotes from multiple companies. Request quotes from several car shipping companies to compare prices and services. However, be cautious when a quote seems too good to be true, as it could be a scam. Take the time to research the company, check reviews, and make sure they are reputable.
Sum Up
By understanding seasonal shipping fluctuations, you can make an informed decision about when to ship your car. This guide has provided a detailed breakdown of what to expect each season in terms of demand and pricing. With careful planning and the tips provided by BAH Logistics, you can save money while shipping your vehicle at the right time.
