Timing plays a crucial role when shipping a car across the United States. Depending on the season, you could face higher prices, longer delivery times, or limited carrier availability. Knowing the best time of year to ship a car can save you money and stress.
In this guide, we’ll break down car shipping by season, highlighting the best and worst times to transport your vehicle.
🌸 Spring Car Shipping (March to May)
Spring marks the start of the busy car shipping season. As the weather improves, more people move, buy cars, and travel, increasing demand for transport services.
Pros:
✅ Favorable weather conditions reduce delays.
✅ More carriers available after the winter slowdown.
✅ Ideal time for shipping before summer price hikes.
Cons:
❌ Increased demand means slightly higher prices.
❌ Peak season starts in late spring, raising rates.
💰 Average Cost: $900 to $1,400 for cross-country open transport.
🕰️ Delivery Time: 7 to 10 days, depending on distance.
💡 Tip: Book early to avoid spring price surges.
☀️ Summer Car Shipping (June to August)
Summer is the busiest season for car shipping, with families moving during school breaks, dealerships transporting inventory, and travelers relocating for seasonal work.
Pros:
✅ More carriers available for faster pickup.
✅ Ideal for long-distance moves, college relocations, and military transfers.
Cons:
❌ Higher demand leads to 10% to 30% higher prices.
❌ Delays can occur due to increased shipping volume.
❌ Heat may affect battery life and tire pressure.
💰 Average Cost: $1,100 to $1,800 for cross-country open transport.
🕰️ Delivery Time: 7 to 14 days, depending on route.
💡 Tip: Ship early June or late August to avoid peak summer rates.
🍂 Fall Car Shipping (September to November)
Fall is one of the best times to ship a car. The summer rush ends, and demand drops, leading to lower prices and faster shipping times.
Pros:
✅ 10% to 20% cheaper than summer.
✅ Favorable weather conditions for safe transport.
✅ Faster pickup and delivery due to lower demand.
Cons:
❌ Early fall still sees some demand from returning snowbirds.
❌ Hurricane season (August to November) can cause delays in the Southeast.
💰 Average Cost: $800 to $1,300 for cross-country open transport.
🕰️ Delivery Time: 5 to 10 days, depending on route.
💡 Tip: Ship in September or October for the best rates and quickest service.
❄️ Winter Car Shipping (December to February)
Winter is the cheapest time to ship a car, but it comes with weather-related risks.
Pros:
✅ Lowest prices due to reduced demand.
✅ Faster delivery on routes with mild weather.
✅ Easier to find available carriers.
Cons:
❌ Snow and ice can cause delays and route changes.
❌ Fewer carriers operate in northern states.
❌ Holiday season (late December) increases prices.
💰 Average Cost: $700 to $1,200 for cross-country open transport.
🕰️ Delivery Time: 7 to 14 days, depending on weather conditions.
💡 Tip: Avoid shipping around the Christmas and New Year holidays.
🕰️ Cost Comparison by Season
| Season | Average Cost (Cross-Country Open Transport) | Delivery Time (Days) | Demand Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | $900 to $1,400 | 7 to 10 | Moderate |
| Summer | $1,100 to $1,800 | 7 to 14 | High |
| Fall | $800 to $1,300 | 5 to 10 | Low to Moderate |
| Winter | $700 to $1,200 | 7 to 14 | Low |
💡 Tip: Book at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance, regardless of the season.
🚚 Best Time of Year Based on Your Needs
1. If You Want the Lowest Price:
✅ Winter (January to February): Fewer shipments lead to cheaper rates.
2. If You Want Faster Delivery:
✅ Fall (September to October): Lower demand means quicker pickups and deliveries.
3. If You Prefer Ideal Weather Conditions:
✅ Spring (March to May): Mild weather reduces delays.
4. If You’re Moving with Family:
✅ Summer (June to August): Easier for relocations but expect higher prices.
💡 Tip: If you’re flexible, early fall offers the best balance of cost, speed, and weather.
📦 How to Save Money When Shipping Your Car
- Book Early: Secure your spot 2 to 4 weeks in advance.
- Choose Open Transport: Cheaper than enclosed shipping.
- Be Flexible with Dates: Carriers charge less for flexible pickup windows.
- Avoid Holidays: Shipping around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year increases prices.
- Compare Quotes: Get at least 3 to 5 quotes from reputable companies.
💡 Tip: Some companies, like Sherpa Auto Transport and AmeriFreight, offer price-lock guarantees.
🌟 Conclusion: When Is the Best Time to Ship a Car?
The best time to ship a car depends on your priorities:
- For the lowest cost: Ship in winter (January to February).
- For faster delivery: Choose fall (September to October).
- For best weather: Ship in spring (March to May).
- For family moves: Summer works but expect higher prices.
By understanding seasonal trends and booking early, you can secure affordable rates and enjoy stress-free car shipping.
Lear more: https://infofatos.com/best-time-of-year-to-ship-a-car/
