For retirees and seasonal travelers, the annual migration between warm winter destinations and cooler summer climates is a well-established lifestyle. These “snowbirds,” as they’re often called, typically split their year between homes in different states—commonly heading to Florida, Arizona, Texas, or Southern California for the winter, and returning north in the spring. But when it comes to their vehicles, many ask: should I drive or ship?
Car shipping for snowbirds has become a popular solution, offering convenience, comfort, and peace of mind during the transition between seasonal homes.
Driving long distances twice a year might sound manageable at first, but over time it becomes exhausting—especially for older travelers. Long road trips mean hotel stays, navigating traffic, fueling up multiple times, and the physical toll of hours behind the wheel. Weather can also be unpredictable in late fall or early spring, making the journey even more stressful.
Shipping your car using enclosed or open car transport, solves all of this. Instead of adding thousands of miles to your vehicle and wearing yourself out with the drive, you can simply schedule pickup at your current home and have the car delivered directly to your destination. Most snowbirds opt for door-to-door service, which is the most seamless and efficient option—especially for those who don’t want to deal with drop-off terminals or extra travel coordination.
Planning ahead is key. The snowbird seasons—October to December for the southbound move, and March to May for the return north—are among the busiest times of year in the auto transport industry. Demand spikes, and prices tend to rise, especially on popular routes like New York to Florida or Michigan to Arizona. Booking at least 2–4 weeks in advance ensures better availability, more accurate pickup windows, and a better rate.
When choosing a carrier, consider whether open or enclosed transport best suits your vehicle. Most snowbirds use open transport since it’s more affordable and perfectly safe for daily drivers. If you own a luxury, vintage, or collector vehicle, enclosed transport offers added protection but comes at a higher price.
The shipping process is simple. Once you book your service and confirm the details, you’ll prepare your car for transport by cleaning it, removing personal items, and documenting its condition. On pickup day, the driver will perform an inspection, load the vehicle, and provide updates along the route. When your car arrives at your seasonal home, all that’s left is a final inspection and a signature.
For many snowbirds, shipping a vehicle has become part of the routine. It frees you to travel by plane, coordinate your arrival on your own terms, or even delay your departure if needed—without worrying about how your car will get there.
One common question is whether you can ship the same car back and forth every season. The answer is yes. In fact, many people schedule round-trip shipments in advance, even locking in a return date when they book the outbound trip. Doing so often provides better pricing and ensures a spot during the busy spring return season.
When budgeting, consider that seasonal shipping often ranges from $800 to $1,200 each way, depending on distance, vehicle size, and timing. While that’s an investment, it can be far more cost-effective than the expenses associated with a long drive—not to mention the value of your time, energy, and comfort.
Ultimately, car shipping for snowbirds is all about making life easier and safer. It allows you to enjoy your seasonal move without the burden of a grueling road trip. For anyone looking to simplify their annual migration and preserve the condition of their vehicle, transport services offer a smart, dependable solution. And don’t forget to take care of the windscreens. If your car is to be scrapped, look for a company for buying scrap cars.