Every fall, a massive migration of Americans packs up their summer properties and heads south for the winter. This migration usually takes place from northern states like Maine, Michigan, New York, and Wisconsin, sending people to warmer climates. They flock to Florida for beach time and sun, or Arizona for mild winters. Annual snowbird migration is a well-documented phenomenon for southern states and essential to their economies.
The problem is time and distance. Should a snowbird drive thousands of miles each way, rent a vehicle for half the year, or fly ahead of time and ship a personal vehicle to make things easier?
Here is a quick overview of what to expect when using open or enclosed car shipping for your next snowbird season transition.
Why Snowbirds Ship Their Cars Instead of Driving
Driving south for the winter requires a lot of details. Sometimes, the trip is fun, and you get the chance to do a little antiquing, see some sites, enjoy food, and just take in the scenery on the road. Other times, you have strict schedules and want to avoid variable expenses like fuel, hotels, food, tolls, parking arrangements, and more.
Then there’s the winter weather. Many snowbirds move earlier in the season to avoid road closures or heavy traffic slowed by a snowstorm. That’s why AAA always recommends checking the weather along the entire travel route and delaying any longer trips whenever there are severe weather warnings.
Shipping your car avoids all those unknowns. The car is safely loaded onto a trailer, relocated to your winter residence, and ready to drive for whatever errands or trips you want to take.
Repeat Routes Each Season and the Timing Stress Returns
Snowbird auto transport needs specific timing. You may want to spend November through March in Sarasota, FL, but if you have a lease beginning November 1, a flight booked October 31, and a car arriving shortly after you arrive, you’ll need to coordinate the timing.
You shouldn’t treat auto transport like an airline itinerary. Delivering a car to the best snowbird destinations needs a little flexibility for pickup and delivery. Complications are always possible, including heavy traffic, weather issues, mechanical problems, other client pickups, and road restrictions.
A professional auto shipping company will have ways to work around these issues and communicate what to expect. It’s also a good idea to be flexible, as that can get you a better price and more carrier options.
How Scheduling Pickup and Delivery Works Around Snowbird Windows
If you’re a snowbird and want to ship your car, start planning about 3-4 weeks before your estimated pickup date. In general, you can expect a timeline like:
• Several Weeks Ahead: Get a few car shipping quotes based on your exact vehicle make, model, size, delivery date, and pickup/delivery dates.
• Before Pickup: Confirm who (you, partner, family, etc.) will release the vehicle before the carrier arrives.
• Pickup Day: Do a complete inspection of the vehicle against the Bill of Lading, and make sure it is in good condition.
• While Traveling: Keep your phone available to get real-time updates.
• Before Delivery: Work with the carrier to ensure you have a safe, easily accessible drop-off location for them to deliver the car.
• At Delivery: Inspect the vehicle against the Bill of Lading one more time to check for damage.
Once springtime hits, you should start planning your return trip back north. Again, the earlier and more flexible you are with these parameters, the better your price outcomes.
Which Snowbird Routes Are Most Common?
The best snowbird destinations really depend on what type of winter season you want. Florida and Arizona are likely at the top of your list, but many snowbirds also head to Louisiana, New Mexico, SoCal, and South Carolina. Other popular routes include:
The popularity of these travel routes works to your advantage. Carriers want to keep their trucks full of cars. They know when Bostonian snowbirds head out because it means more efficient trips that maximize profits. Just be sure the multi-car carrier can access your gated community, narrow streets, or condo parking.
How Much Does Snowbird Auto Transport Cost?
There is no singular snowbird auto transport price. The final price depends more on mileage, vehicle size/weight, open/enclosed transport, vehicle operability, locations, fuel costs, carrier availability, and seasonal demand. The most popular times are October to November for heading south and April to May for heading north.
Booking early can help you save a bit on the final price. You should also ask about any discounts or promotions for first responders, healthcare workers, teachers, military members, booking multiple cars at the same time, and so on.
How Should You Prepare Your Car Before Pickup?
As a general rule, carriers will not ship your car to any snowbird destination if there are personal items inside. Some may allow up to 100 pounds, but you shouldn’t count on it. You’ll need to prepare your car accordingly by:
• Checking for leaks and confirming the battery, tires, and AC are working as intended.
• Remove any personal belongings or external accessories that extend beyond the car.
• Leave about a ¼ of fuel in the tank (20-30% charge in an EV).
• Disable any toll transponders and, if available, put the car into towing mode.
• Confirm with the carrier whether the vehicle is inoperable.
• Give the car a good wash inside and out.
• Take plenty of photos/videos of the car’s condition.
• Make sure you have copies of your registration, insurance, and the Bill of Lading.
Be very clear with the carrier so they arrive with the proper equipment to safely load, transport, and deliver your vehicle.
What Happens When Your Snowbird Car Arrives?
When the car is delivered, you’re basically following the reverse of pickup procedures. Immediately review the Bill of Lading to confirm the car is in the same condition it was in before delivery. If you notice any scratches or issues, report them to the broker as quickly as possible.
Keep all your documentation during transportation. Whatever auto shipping company you pick, make sure they have federal licensing and certifications, communicate well, and have enough experience with your specific vehicle that they won’t be confused during pickup.
What to expect during car shipping is mostly about getting all your ducks in a row. Work with the shipping company and ask questions. If you feel unheard, you may want to try a different provider.
Turn Snowbird Car Shipping into an Annual Routine
The best part of snowbird auto transport is that you always get better at it over time. Once you’ve had that first season with a professional, qualified company, you’ll know what to expect the next time you use the service.
The shipper will appreciate your return business and often work it into their calendar before you call just so there is availability. For you, try to leave a decent buffer of 1-3 days before and after your flight. It’s a good “just in case” way to secure annual travel and car shipping.
Make Migration Easier, Not More Complicated
Being a snowbird is supposed to help you enjoy life without the harshness of freezing winters or overly hot summers. Many people trade the snow shovel for beaches, hiking, golf, and afternoons by the pool bar.
Snowbird auto transport is a good option to ensure you get the pickup and drop-off you want. It saves you time, hassle, and unpredictable expenses so you can focus on setting up your BBQ in your summer home. All you do is lock up the northern home, board your flight, and settle into your winter home.
