Choosing the best time of year to ship a car can save you hundreds of dollars and reduce the chances of frustrating delays. Whether you’re relocating, buying a vehicle out of state, or heading south for the winter, understanding seasonal trends gives you a serious advantage.
Why Timing Matters When Shipping a Car
Auto transport prices and service quality vary significantly throughout the year. Fuel prices, demand, carrier availability, and weather conditions all play a role in your shipping experience.
Carrier Supply and Demand
During high-demand seasons, carriers get booked quickly, driving up prices. In slower months, they may offer discounts just to fill their loads.
Route and Regional Conditions
Some regions become risky or difficult to access during extreme seasons. For example, winter storms in the Northeast can delay pickups and deliveries.
The Best Time of Year to Ship a Car by Season
Each season offers pros and cons depending on your budget and flexibility. Let’s break it down.
Winter (January – February)
Shipping in winter is ideal for those looking for the lowest price. Demand is lower after the holidays, and carriers offer more competitive rates.
Pros of Winter Shipping
Cheaper transport rates
Easier to book last-minute
Less competition from other shippers
Cons of Winter Shipping
Delays due to snow and ice
Harder to access rural or mountain areas
Risk of weather-related damage unless using enclosed shipping
Spring (March – May)
Spring is often the best time of year to ship a car for those who want good weather and reasonable prices.
Why Spring Is a Smart Choice
Safer road conditions
Balanced carrier availability
Great for cross-country moves
Key Considerations
Prices begin to climb in late spring
College student moves may increase demand
Summer (June – August)
Summer is the busiest season in the car shipping industry and usually the most expensive.
Pros of Summer Shipping
Most carriers are active
Ideal for fast delivery
Perfect for relocations
Cons of Summer Shipping
High rates due to demand
Limited availability on short notice
Heat can affect car fluids and battery life
Fall (September – November)
Fall is often the most underrated but potentially best time of year to ship a car due to stable prices and ideal driving conditions.
Reasons to Choose Fall
Fewer people shipping vehicles
Avoids extreme weather
Great timing for snowbirds heading south
When to Book in Fall
September and October offer the best balance
Avoid the Thanksgiving rush
Cheapest Time of Year to Ship a Car
What the Data Says
According to industry statistics, January and February are the cheapest months. Prices drop after the holidays, and most people delay moves until spring.
What to Watch Out For
Monitor forecasts for storms
Choose flexible pickup windows
Verify insurance coverage for winter risks
Times You Should Avoid Shipping
Major Holidays
Avoid Christmas to New Year’s, Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, and Thanksgiving week.
Peak Summer
From late June through mid-August, prices and delays peak. Unless you must move during this time, it’s best to wait for the fall.
Tips to Save Money on Auto Transport
Be Flexible With Dates
A 3–5 day pickup window makes your shipment easier to schedule and more affordable.
Compare Open vs Enclosed Carriers
Open Transport
Most common
Cheaper
Suitable for standard vehicles
Enclosed Transport
More expensive
Protects against weather and debris
Ideal for classic, luxury, or high-value vehicles
Book in Advance
Booking 2–4 weeks ahead guarantees better pricing and availability. It also gives you time to research reputable companies using FMCSA’s database.
Regional Factors That Influence Car Shipping
Northeast & Midwest
Avoid January–March due to snow
Best months: April to October
South & Southwest
Avoid mid-summer due to extreme heat
Best months: March to May, October to December
West Coast
Year-round shipping is possible
Still avoid holidays and peak summer
Use Tools and Experts to Pick the Best Time
Many platforms help you estimate pricing and ideal timeframes. For example, Montway Auto Transport publishes rate trends based on historical data. You can also rely on trusted services like John 3:16 Transport for honest pricing and help choosing the best schedule.
Final Thoughts: When Is the Best Time to Ship?
There is no single answer, but the best time of year to ship a car for affordability and smooth delivery is January and February for the lowest cost, April to May and September to October for a balance of cost and timing, and it’s wise to avoid June–August and holiday weeks. Smart planning, flexibility, and working with a reputable company make all the difference.
