Snowbird Season Savings: Going towards the cold during the winter saves you money - Cheapest Ways

When it comes to shipping your car, timing can make all the difference in the cost. One of the best times to transport a vehicle at the lowest possible price (believe it or not) is during the Snowbird Season.

With fewer people moving north as many escape the cold by heading south, the northbound routes leave carriers empty causing a low demand. By timing your transport to head the opposite direction of the snowbird migration, you can save significantly on your vehicle shipment.

Save Money During Snowbird Season

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Snowbirds are individuals who migrate seasonally between colder northern states and warmer southern destinations, with peak movement happening in the winter months. Many people from places like the Northeast and Midwest head to Florida, Arizona, and other warmer states, resulting in an influx of cars being transported south. This high demand causes shipping prices to rise during the snowbird season. [1][2]

Snowbird Rush vs. Opposite Direction

The snowbird season typically lasts from October through April, with peak periods occurring in December and January. During this time, auto transport companies experience their busiest schedules, leading to higher prices.

On the other hand, going Against Snowbird Season refers to shipping northward during the winter months when fewer vehicles are heading in that direction. This is the best time to ship a car at a lower cost due to reduced demand.

Going Opposite of Snowbird Migration Saves You Money

Transporting a vehicle in the opposite direction of the snowbird flow, such as from Florida to New York in January, can be especially cost-effective. During Snowbird Season, fewer cars are heading north, meaning transport companies are eager to fill their haulers on the return trip and often offer discounted rates.
For example, let’s look at typical pricing:

• Snowbird Season:
  New York to Florida in January: $800 to $1,200 (high demand).
  
• Opposite Snowbird Direction:
  Florida to New York in January: $500 to $700 (low demand, cheaper rates).
  

Since carriers need to fill space on return trips, they often lower their prices for cars heading in the less popular direction.

Pricing Example: North to South vs. South to North

Let’s say you need to ship your car from Chicago to Miami. 

• During peak Snowbird Season (January), open transport may cost $900 to $1,200.
• For the reverse route (Miami to Chicago in January), prices could drop to $600 to $800 depending on carrier availability and route demand.

Similarly, transport from Florida to the Midwest in December could cost $1,000, while going opposite Snowbird Season could lower the price to $600 to $800.

Why Snowbird Season is the Best Time for Savings

Several factors contribute to cheaper rates during the Reverse Snowbird Season:

1. Lower Demand:
   Fewer customers are shipping northbound, so transport companies offer better pricing to fill space.
2. Carrier Availability:
   During this time, carriers have more flexibility and are more likely to offer lower rates.
3. Less Competition:
   Without the snowbird rush, there’s less competition for limited carrier space, keeping prices lower.

Other Tips for Saving on Auto Transport

• Book Early:
  Even during Snowbird Season, booking in advance helps lock in the best rates.
  
• Be Flexible:
  If you can adjust pickup and delivery dates, you may save even more.
  
• Consider Open Transport:
  Open transport is the cheapest option and works perfectly for most cars unless you need enclosed transport for a high-end or classic vehicle.
  

Shipping your car northbound during the Snowbird Season is one of the cheapest ways to transport a vehicle. By planning ahead and taking advantage of lower demand, you can secure a more affordable rate. Whether you’re heading north or south, timing your transport around Snowbird Season can save you hundreds of dollars, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Related Links

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• Why rates increase during snowbird season
  
• Defining the Snowbird during Winter
  
• Winter Season: When cold arrives, snowbirds fly
  

   

References

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1. Reddit: Auto transport cost fluctuates depending on seasonal change
2. Sakaem Logistics: Winter vs Summer Car Shipping