As spring approaches, thousands of snowbirds begin planning their return trips north. While booking flights and closing up seasonal homes may be top of mind, securing reliable vehicle transport is just as important.
April and May are two of the busiest months for auto transport, with demand surging as snowbirds all head home at the same time. If you wait too long to book, you may face delays, limited availability, and higher rates. Whether you’re shipping your car back for the first time or have been doing it for years, planning ahead can make all the difference.
Snowbird travel creates peak demand in both fall and spring. When winter arrives, retirees, seasonal workers, and second-homeowners head south to states like Florida, Arizona, and Texas. As temperatures rise, they all prepare to return north at the same time, putting pressure on transport carriers.
For those who wait until the last minute, this means:
To avoid these challenges, securing your transport several weeks in advance is the best approach.
To ensure a smooth transport experience, follow these key steps:
Spring auto transport demand spikes in April and May, which means availability becomes more limited as the months progress. Reserving your transport early ensures you secure a spot before carriers fill up.
Most vehicles are shipped on open trailers, which are widely available and more affordable. However, for high-value, classic, or luxury cars, enclosed transport provides added protection from road debris and weather conditions.
Not all transport companies are equipped to handle high-volume seasonal shipping. Look for a provider with experience handling snowbird routes, transparent pricing, and a reputation for timely deliveries.
Be cautious of brokers offering unrealistically low rates. Some companies advertise cheap prices upfront but may increase costs later or struggle to secure a reliable carrier. Always verify the company’s reputation, check reviews, and ensure they provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
Before your scheduled pickup, make sure your vehicle is ready:
Taking these steps ensures a smooth handoff and minimizes any potential delays.
Beyond planning ahead, a few factors may impact vehicle transport this season:
Book Your Return Trip Now?
Snowbird season brings some of the highest vehicle transport demand of the year, and waiting too long to schedule your shipment could lead to costly delays. Booking early ensures you get a spot with a trusted carrier, allowing you to focus on your return home without the stress of last-minute logistics.
If you’re ready to secure your vehicle transport, request a quote today and get your spot reserved before peak season fills up.