Timing is an important factor to consider when shipping a car to another state. Certain times of the year are more favorable for auto transport due to lower demand, better weather conditions, and more affordable rates.

This article will help you understand the best time of year to moving car to another state, the pros and cons of different seasons, and how to plan your shipment for the best results.

1. Shipping During Off-Peak Seasons

One of the best ways to save money on car shipping is to schedule your shipment during the off-peak seasons.

The off-peak seasons for auto transport are typically in the fall and winter, when demand is lower, and transport companies are more likely to offer competitive rates.

If you have flexibility with your schedule, choosing to ship your car during these months can lead to significant savings.

Advantages of Off-Peak Shipping

• Lower Prices: Since fewer people are shipping their cars during the fall and winter, transport companies often offer lower rates to attract business.
• More Availability: With less demand, there are more available transport trucks, making it easier to book a shipment on short notice.
• Faster Delivery Times: With fewer cars to transport, deliveries may be faster during off-peak seasons.

2. Shipping During Peak Seasons

The peak seasons for car shipping are in the summer and during the holiday season (November to January). These times of year are when many people are moving, relocating, or selling vehicles, leading to higher demand for auto transport services.

While peak seasons are convenient for many customers, they come with higher prices and potentially longer wait times for pickups and deliveries.

Disadvantages of Peak Season Shipping

• Higher Costs: Increased demand for auto transport services during the summer and holidays drives up prices.
• Longer Wait Times: With more cars being shipped, it may take longer for transport companies to schedule your pickup and delivery.
• Limited Availability: Transport companies tend to book up quickly during peak seasons, making it more difficult to find available carriers, especially if you’re booking last minute.

3. How Weather Affects Car Shipping

Another important factor to consider when choosing the best time of year to ship a car is the weather. Weather conditions can impact the safety and timing of auto transport, especially during winter months when snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can cause delays.

Winter Shipping Considerations

While shipping in the winter offers lower prices, there are some challenges to be aware of:

• Snow and Ice: Winter weather can create hazardous driving conditions, leading to delays or longer delivery times for auto transport trucks.
• Road Closures: In regions that experience heavy snowfall, road closures or detours may affect the transport route, causing further delays.

Summer Shipping Considerations

While summer offers more predictable weather, it is also the peak season for car shipping. This can lead to higher prices and limited availability.

If you're shipping a car during the summer, be sure to book early to secure a spot and avoid last-minute price hikes.

4. The Best Months to Ship a Car

For most customers, the best months to ship a car are in the fall (September to November) and early spring (March to May). These months offer a balance of mild weather and lower demand, making it easier to find affordable rates and faster shipping times.

Advantages of Fall Shipping

• Mild Weather: Fall offers ideal weather conditions for shipping, with fewer risks of snow or extreme heat affecting the transport process.
• Lower Prices: With the summer peak season ending, transport companies often lower their rates in the fall to attract more customers.

5. Booking in Advance

Regardless of when you plan to ship your car, booking your shipment in advance is always a good idea. By scheduling your shipment early, you can lock in a lower rate and ensure your car is shipped on time, even during busy seasons.

Most auto transport companies allow you to book a shipment several weeks or even months in advance. If you know your moving date or transport needs ahead of time, take advantage of early booking discounts and secure your spot on the transport trailer.

Conclusion

The best time of year to ship a car to another state depends on your priorities. If you’re looking to save money, shipping during the off-peak seasons in fall or winter is your best bet.

However, if timing and convenience are more important, you may prefer to ship during the summer or holidays, even if it costs a bit more.

By understanding the pros and cons of each season, you can plan your shipment accordingly and ensure a smooth and cost-effective car transport experience.