Snowbird Car Shipping: Everything You Need to Know

Snowbird Season: Why It Matters and When It Happens 

Each year, an estimated 1 to 1.5 million people move south for the winter (i.e., are “snowbirds”) - many to states like Florida. While people are escaping harsh cold or sunny weather, the high demand affects pricing and carrier availability. The routes get super busier - and prices surge quickly. 

The peak snowbird seasons include: 

• Peak Southbound season: October - January 
• Peak northbound return season: March - May

Why Snowbirds Ship Their Cars Instead of Driving 

Apart from the fact that driving interstate is one hell of a task, here are other reasons snowbirds ship their cars. 

• Convenience for seniors - honestly, it's unhealthy for seniors to experience long, tiring road trips. 
• Safety benefits - it helps you avoid potential risks and highway fatigue.  
• Snowbirds prefer shipping to driving because it's a way of preserving their vehicles from wear and tear. 
• The option of door-to-door delivery: this makes the whole process easy and smooth.

How Much Does Snowbird Car Shipping Cost?

You need to understand that the cost of snowbird shipping varies. Depending on vehicle type, shipping distance, and the carrier option you choose. 

General price ranges: 

Average shipping price: 

• $400 - $600 for short distances (under 500 miles).
• $1,100 - $1,600+ for long distances (2,000+ miles)
• Southbound winter routes: $1,000 - $1,600
• Northbound spring return routes: $800 - $1,200

How to Get the Best Rate During Snowbird Season 

• Book early. Of course, you've heard this before, but it's as fundamental as could be imagined. Ideally, you can book 2 - 4 weeks before the rush. Because the price surges from October to January. 
• Be flexible with pick-up location and schedule. Rushing things will cause the carrier to assume it's very urgent, resulting in higher costs. 
• Choose open transport unless the vehicle is luxury or exotic. 
• Open carriers are cheaper options.

Common Snowbird Routes (and What to Expect) 

• New York to Florida 

New York to Florida is the busiest snowbird route in the U.S. 

Higher demand from October to January, along with faster pickup because drivers run the routes daily, results in a higher price during the peak period. 

Transit time: 3 - 5 days depending on where you're headed in NY and FL New 

• Jersey to Florida

Similar to New York to Florida, but less congested. 

What to expect: 

Moderate price surge during peak. 

Transit time: 3 - 6 

• Michigan to Florida. 

This one is a very tiring move with higher demand from retirees and students. 

Price increases from early September to November. 

Fewer carriers compared to East Coast routes. It's better to book early. 

Transit time: 3 - 7 days. 

• Illinois to Texas. 

Shipping from Illinois to Texas as a snowbird? 

Here's what to expect: 

Moderate demand, not as severe as Florida, and higher availability of carriers year-round. 

Transit time: 2 - 4 days 

• Pennsylvania to Arizona 

Long-distance route 

What to expect: 

• Higher price due to distance 
• More demands between October and January 
• Transit time: 5 - 8 days

6 Simple Steps to Prepare Your Car Before the Carrier Arrives:

1. Wash the car. 
2. Takes photos to document its condition in case of claims
3. Remove valuable items 
4. Check for leaks, as some areas might have fluid leaks.  
5. Keep the fuel tank at 1/4.
6. Fold side mirrors.

How to Spot and Avoid Snowbird Season Scams: 

• The auto company offers very low quotes. 
• Uninsured carriers. 
• Brokers with no MC number. 
• Fake websites. 
• Hidden fees or extra charges. 

Note: Always verify USDOT/MC number and insurance details. 

In Conclusion 

Snowbird Car Shipping becomes easier when you book early, use the right auto company, and understand the factors influencing Snowbird shipping prices.  

P.S.  At Revoway, we offer snowbird shipping services. With us, you will enjoy the best rate and overall snowbird shipping experience.