Shipping a car can be a stressful process, and during peak seasons, it becomes even more challenging. Whether you’re relocating for a job, heading south for the winter, or buying or selling a car, the increased demand for auto transport services during summer months and holidays can lead to higher prices and limited carrier availability. Nevertheless, with the right approach and preparation, you can ensure a smooth car shipping experience.
At Ship A Car, Inc., we understand the unique challenges of shipping vehicles during busy times. This guide will walk you through the best strategies for booking your car shipment in peak seasons, avoiding unnecessary delays, and securing the best pricing and service possible. Continue reading for the best tips & tricks on how to ship a car during peak seasons.
Certain times of the year are significantly busier for car shipping than others. The most common peak seasons include:
- Summer (May – August): College students moving, military relocations, and families taking advantage of school breaks make this a high-demand period for auto transport.
- Winter (Snowbird Season – October – April): Retirees, commonly known as “snowbirds,” relocate from colder northern states to warmer states like Florida, Arizona, and Texas, leading to increased demand for car shipping. Click here to learn more about seasonal car shipping.
- End of the Year Holidays (November – January): Many people move home for the holidays or purchase vehicles as gifts, increasing demand for transport services.
- Tax Season (February – April): People with tax refunds often buy new or used cars, leading to a spike in vehicle shipping requests.
During these peak seasons, higher-than-normal demand means fewer available carriers, higher costs, and potential scheduling delays. Knowing how to navigate these busy times can save you both time and money.
Book in Advance – One of the most effective ways to avoid complications during peak shipping seasons is booking early. Carriers fill up quickly during busy times, and last-minute bookings often come with higher prices and fewer transport options. Ideally, schedule your auto transport at least two to four weeks in advance to secure your preferred dates and rates.
Be Flexible with Pickup and Delivery Dates – If possible, maintain some flexibility with your pickup and delivery dates. While many customers prefer exact date guarantees, flexibility can help carriers fit your vehicle into their schedule more easily. You may be able to secure a lower price and avoid delays if you provide a window of availability instead of demanding a single pickup date.
Understand Pricing Variations – During peak seasons, higher demand leads to increased costs. Auto transport companies adjust their rates based on factors like fuel prices, driver availability, and seasonal demand. While it might be tempting to go with the lowest possible quote, remember that significantly low prices often indicate unreliable service or long delays. Working with a reputable company like Ship A Car, Inc. ensures that you receive fair, transparent pricing without hidden fees.
Choose the Right Type of Transport – There are two main types of vehicle transport:
- Open Carrier Transport – More affordable and widely available, but your car is exposed to the elements.
- Enclosed Carrier Transport – Provides additional protection, ideal for luxury or classic cars, but is more expensive and has limited availability during peak seasons.
Understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make an informed decision based on your vehicle’s value and protection needs.
Inspect and Document Your Vehicle’s Condition – Before handing your car over for transport, do a thorough inspection:
- Take clear photos of your car from all angles, noting any pre-existing dents or scratches.
- Check for fluid leaks, tire pressure, and battery charge.
- Remove all personal belongings from the car, as most carriers won’t allow items inside the vehicle during transport.
Having documentation will help protect you in the unlikely event of damage during transit.
Consider Alternative Pickup and Drop-Off Locations – If you’re located in a rural or remote area, it may take longer for a carrier to find a truck that services your location. Consider using a major city as your pickup or drop-off point to speed up the process. More trucks operate on high-traffic routes, making transport more efficient and potentially more cost-effective.
Work with a Trusted Auto Transport Company – Not all auto transport companies are created equal, especially during peak seasons. Some brokers promise low prices but fail to secure a carrier on time, leaving customers stranded with delayed shipments. Ship A Car, Inc. has an extensive network of trusted carriers and decades of experience, ensuring your car gets shipped safely and on time, even during the busiest seasons.
Shipping a car during peak seasons can be overwhelming, but with Ship A Car, Inc., you don’t have to worry about delays, inflated costs, or unreliable service. We specialize in securing reliable auto transport, offering competitive pricing, and ensuring smooth, hassle-free vehicle shipping nationwide.
Whether you need to transport a sedan, SUV, truck, motorcycle, or specialty vehicle, our expert team will guide you every step of the way, providing updates and ensuring your car arrives safely at its destination.
At Ship A Car, Inc., we pride ourselves on being the most trustworthy and reliable car shipping company in the USA. No matter the season, we ensure that your vehicle is transported safely, securely, and on time. Whether it’s the height of summer, the holiday rush, or snowbird migration season, you can count on us to deliver top-tier service.
Don’t wait until the last minute to book your auto transport! Call Ship A Car, Inc. today at (866) 821-4555 to get a customized quote and secure your vehicle shipment. You can also use our instant auto transport calculator to find the best price for your needs. Book your stress-free car shipping experience with Ship A Car, Inc. now!
Q: How far in advance should I book my car shipment during peak seasons?
A: It’s best to book at least two to four weeks in advance to secure your preferred transport dates and avoid last-minute price hikes.
Q: Will my car shipment be delayed during peak seasons?
A: While delays are possible due to increased demand, Ship A Car, Inc. works diligently to minimize disruptions and find the best carrier for your needs.
Q: Does peak season car shipping cost more?
A: Yes, rates tend to be higher due to increased demand, but Ship A Car, Inc. ensures transparent pricing without hidden fees.
Q: Can I ship a luxury or classic car during peak seasons?
A: Absolutely, SAC can ship all types of luxury vehicles! We recommend enclosed transport for maximum protection, especially during high-demand periods when open carriers may be overbooked.
Q: How do I get a quote for my car shipment?
A: You can call (866) 821-4555 to speak with an expert or use our auto transport calculator on our website for an instant quote.
