Skip to main content
photo of Nightime Downtown Jacksonville FL skyline ship a car

The Ideal Time To Ship A Car To Jacksonville, FL

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Transport Quote Calculator, Auto Transport Tips, Best Seasons To Ship A Car Advice, Car Shipping Advice, Car Shipping Quotes Calculator, Car Shipping Service, Seasonal Fluctuations, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

The Ideal Time To Ship A Car To Jacksonville, FL

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

photo of Nightime Downtown Jacksonville FL skyline ship a car

The Ideal Time To Ship A Car To Jacksonville, FL

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Related Topic Resources

Seasonality greatly affects Jacksonville car shipping quotes, overall cost, and level of service. When is the ideal time to ship a car to Jacksonville, FL? Depending on the season, your approach to shipping your vehicle to Jacksonville should change.

We include in this blog tried and true tips and strategies that will help you have a successful experience. We know when best to ship a car to Jacksonville, FL in all four seasons.

OUR METHODOLOGY:

Direct Express Auto Transport has over twenty years of experience shipping cars to Jacksonville, Florida. We track daily the number of single-vehicle Sedans, SUVs, Pickup Trucks, and Vans system-wide that are available to ship on a popular auto transport load board. 

We omit in our study multiple vehicle orders, those that are anywhere from 2 to 10 vehicles on the car transport trailer because we are better able to assess market volume changes. The numbers tell a story and we share the past year in this blog. 

Key Takeaways: 

  • Car shipping to Jacksonville is affected by the seasons.
  • The highest vehicle shipping cost to Jacksonville is around the Christmas and New Year holidays during the snowbird Winter season.
  • The cheapest auto transport quotes to Jacksonville happen just four months later in the Spring season.
  • The late Summer season collides with college student auto shipping, and for a while, costs rise.
  • The Autumn season is an ideal time to ship your car to Jacksonville.

In This Blog Article:

Ship A Car To Jacksonville, FL In The Winter Season

Shipping a car to Jacksonville in the winter season is extremely difficult. Specifically, over the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays. 

When we talk about seasonality in the vehicle transport industry, late December and early January are the big reasons. No other time is as hectic and stressful as that period. 

Here is what typically happens to the sheer number of vehicles shipping to Florida on any given day in the Winter Season from December to February. It is often called Snowbird season as well.

Do Not Book A Vehicle Shipment To Jacksonville Too Soon

The auto shipping industry is not first come, first served. Once Christmas arrives, the vehicle shipping cost rises incrementally almost daily for four weeks. If a customer booked too early, he will likely have too low a price when the time comes to ship his car. He will have to wait.

The carriers are not concerned with when any particular order was booked. They are only concerned with maximizing their profit, as anyone would be. The carriers quite naturally choose to haul the highest-paying vehicles available. For them, it is a feeding frenzy.

The car shipping carriers have a dilemma to contend with once in Jacksonville. There is very little freight leaving Jacksonville. Because there are so many competing car transport carriers swarming to Jacksonville, and elsewhere in Florida, in late December and all of January, chances are high that a carrier returns home with a half-empty trailer. That means he must make money on the trip to Jacksonville. He doesn’t have the luxury of transporting cheap orders. 

Book Your Car Shipment Order To Jacksonville About One Week Prior

A good rule of thumb is to book your vehicle shipment to Jacksonville about 7 days before availability. The overwhelming majority of auto transport carriers will not commit to picking up a car shipment more than three days in advance of the vehicle availability. 

So why book much earlier than that? It is almost always best to have current vehicle transport market pricing. If it’s high, then there’s no way around it, you will likely pay more. Because otherwise your car won’t ship and others will.

The Best Time To Ship A Car To Jacksonville, FL In The Winter

If at all possible, you should avoid the last two weeks of December and the first two weeks of January. It is hectic for everybody. Just look at the chart and see how the number of vehicles available to ship skyrockets fourfold around the holidays. It is more than the car transportation system can handle. 

During the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays, the vehicle transport carriers and brokers, and most of all – the customers, are stressed.

Winter Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Winter Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of December 3288 1.3:1 Thanksgiving causes a mini-backlog
2nd Week of December 2056 1.6:1 Early December mirrors November volume
3rd Week of December 3306 1.5:1 The snowbird rush to FL begins in earnest
4th Week of December 4085 1.8:1 Carriers want to be home for Xmas too
1st Week of January 6785 2.1:1 And New Year’s … busiest week of the year
2nd Week of January 5400 2.2:1 Highest priced orders ship first
3rd Week of January 3770 1.6:1 2nd highest priced orders ship next
4th Week of January 3417 1.6:1 Eventually all the snowbirds ship a vehicle
1st Week of February 2153 1.3:1 It took a month for a return to normalcy
2nd Week of February 2311 1:1 February is so calm compared to January
3rd Week of February 1711 1:1 Crickets … nothing but crickets
4th Week of February 1627 1:1.3 Late February is a very good time to ship
End of February / Begin March 1791 1:1.5 An ideal time to ship a car to Florida

Ship A Car To Jacksonville, FL In The Spring Season

When the Jacksonville snowbirds return home in the Spring season, starting in late April, throughout all of May, and into early June, the above scenario works in reverse. 

The Spring Season is a fantastic time to ship a car to Jacksonville, Florida. There are far more vehicles leaving Jacksonville than are arriving. The tilted ratio effect of that pushes car shipping quotes down, while at the same time speeding up the timeframes for delivery. It is the best possible scenario imaginable if you are shipping a car to Jacksonville, FL.

Why May Is The Cheapest Time Of Year To Ship A Car To Jacksonville

And then there is May, which is ridiculously advantageous for shipping a vehicle to Florida. The cheapest Vehicle Transport pricing of the year to Jacksonville occurs in May. Why is that, you ask? In May, there are tens of thousands of snowbirds (retirees, college students, and many others) who hibernated in Jacksonville for the winter and are returning home to the north. With so many leaving Jacksonville, and so few coming, the reverse route to Jacksonville becomes incredibly cheap. Enjoy it while you can. 

In May, auto shipping quotes from Jacksonville usually skyrocket as demand for car transport carrier space is very high. Available carrier space is in short supply. The inverse is true. There is an overabundance of auto transport carrier space available to Jacksonville, which drives down the price. Therefore, May is the cheapest time of year to ship a car to Jacksonville.

Spring Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Spring Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of March 3593 1:1.3 March is generally calm
2nd Week of March 3708 1:1.4 Normal low activity in March to FL
3rd Week of March 3102 1:1.6 A great time to ship to Florida
4th Week of March 2226 1:2 Snowbirds leaving
1st Week of April 2716 1:2 Snowbirds leaving Florida
2nd Week of April 2228 1:2.5 The best time to ship a car to Florida
3rd Week of April 1950 1:3 Cheap car shipping period to Florida
4th Week of April 2659 1:2.7 Snowbirds leaving is great for the reverse
1st Week of May 3230 1:2.9 May is ideal for shipping to FL
2nd Week of May 2181 1:4.3 Vehicles ship to Florida quickly because …
3rd Week of May 2262 1:3.7 There are fourfold cars leaving Florida
4th Week of May 1886 1:3.4 May is cheapest month to ship to Florida
End of May / Begin June 3166 1:2.1 Memorial Day

Should You Ship A Car To Jacksonville, FL In The Summer Season?

Auto transport to Jacksonville, FL in the Summer Season is busier than the Spring or Autumn seasons, but not nearly as hectic as the Winter season. Vehicle Transport quotes are fairly stable throughout the summer but rise significantly in August. 

The snowbirds have finally returned home by the end of May, with a few stragglers in early June. 

Like the rest of the country in the Summer Season, auto shipping traffic tends to be families and individuals relocating from and to other states. There are more vehicle shipments than in the slower months of February, March, and April. And considerably more than September, October, and November. 

Avoid Shipping A Car To Jacksonville, FL Around The 4th of July

Car transport carrier drivers enjoy being home as much as you do for the 4th of July festivities. The hometown parade. The barbecue with family and friends. A mid-summer rest with the people you love. 

That means fewer vehicles are getting shipped right in the middle of the busy Summer Season. Orders get backlogged. When the carriers get back to work in early July, they transport to Jacksonville the highest-paying freight first with no regard to how long a customer has been waiting. For about two weeks thereafter, many customers find it both more expensive and frustrating.

The thing to do, and here is your tip, is to avoid vehicle shipping to Jacksonville the last week of June and the first two weeks of July. That is not a good time to ship a car.

College Students Create A Spike In Car Shipping Every August

There is a very discernible automobile shipping spike every year in the late Summer Season. Florida has many popular universities and colleges that attract students from all over America. For many, it is an ideal place to go to college. 

Those Florida colleges on the semester system create a mid-August boost in auto transport to Jacksonville that lasts until the end of the month. Of the nearly 800,000 Florida college students, roughly 17% are from out-of-state, which means tens of thousands suddenly require vehicle shipping services. 

Summer Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Summer Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of June 3228 1:1.9 Snowbird season FROM FL continues
2nd Week of June 2973 1:1.6 Early June is ideal car shipping TO FL
3rd Week of June 2483 1:1.5 It is cheap auto transport to Florida
4th Week of June 2834 1:1.2 A transition starts to happen in Florida
1st Week of July 2440 1:1.3 The 4th of July creates a mini backlog
2nd Week of July 3328 1:1.1 A week of parity shipping TO and FRO
3rd Week of July 2331 1.3:1 Suddenly it is more costly car shipping to FL
4th Week of July 2075 1.2:1 But only slightly more expensive TO Florida
1st Week of August 3287 1.4:1 August is not a good month shipping TO FL
2nd Week of August 3419 2.1:1 College kids shipping cars to Florida
3rd Week of August 3062 2.1:1 Families relocating to Florida before school
4th Week of August 2901 2.1:1 A horrible time to ship a car to Florida
End of August / Begin September 2610 2:1 Because more than twice the vehicles are shipping TO Florida than FROM Florida

Car Shipping Timeframes To Jacksonville, FL In The Autumn Season

Vehicle shipping to Jacksonville in the Autumn Season is easy. It is considered a slow time of year in the car shipping industry. Automobile shipping costs remain stable and affordable throughout most of the Fall or Autumn Season. 

Hurricanes and Thanksgiving Create Automobile Shipping Backlogs

The only blips on the screen when it comes to vehicle shipping to Jacksonville in the Autumn Season are hurricanes and Thanksgiving. And both are momentary. 

National weather forecasters can see hurricanes forming in the Caribbean or Gulf of Mexico days in advance. Car transport carriers know how long they have to get out of Florida, and they avoid entirely any route there. They wait it out, which usually takes but a few days, a week at most. 

September and October are the two most susceptible months for hurricanes, but of course, there are exceptions. Hurricanes create a backlog of vehicle shipments to Jacksonville that are usually overcome within a week after the event. 

At the end of November comes Thanksgiving. Like everybody else, Vehicle Transport carriers like to be home for Turkey Day too. Because Thanksgiving is always the fourth Thursday in November, drivers are usually home by the Wednesday before and don’t return to the road until the Monday after Thanksgiving. Essentially a five-day break for many. It takes about a week for the vehicle shipping freight system to recover and return to stable. 

Autumn Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Autumn Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of September 2302 1.9:1 Extremely high ratio of 2-1 car shipping to FL
2nd Week of September 2295 1.6:1 Shipping to FL is very high cost early Sept
3rd Week of September 3601 1.4:1 Higher than normal throughout September
4th Week of September 4005 1.4:1 The high ratio to FL continues
1st Week of October 2139 1.8:1 Pricing remains high due to the imbalance
2nd Week of October 3254 1.5:1 Car shipping cost to FL is still very high
3rd Week of October 2700 2.7:1 Ratios are way out of whack to Florida
4th Week of October 2568 2.9:1 Car shipping costs to Florida skyrocket
1st Week of November 2622 2.5:1 Pricing remains high due to the imbalance
2nd Week of November 2008 2.1:1 Early November is a bad time to ship to FL
3rd Week of November 1518 1.4:1 mid-November starts to calm down
4th Week of November 2243 1.3:1 Vehicle shipping interrupted by Turkey Day
End of November / Begin December 2422 1.7:1 Thanksgiving causes car shipment backlogs to Florida for a week or more

Bottom Line: The Ideal Time To Ship A Car To Jacksonville, FL

When is the ideal time to ship a car to Jacksonville, FL? Probably the Spring, Summer, and Autumn Seasons. Car shipping quotes tend to be lower and service faster. The Winter Season is far more costly.

As far as car shipping to Jacksonville goes, some seasons are much easier than others. The Winter season is by far the toughest, especially around the auto transport snowbird migration to Jacksonville in late December and January, as shipping costs soar. 

The Spring season is a good time to ship a car to Jacksonville, especially in May when snowbird backhaul prices plummet to Jacksonville. The Summer season is relatively fine. The Autumn season is ideal weather, and car transport quotes tend to be lower than average. 

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator To Jacksonville, Florida

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping quote estimates to Jacksonville, FL.

The Standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote. Use the Standard rate if you can be patient. 

The Expedited rate, or tier as we call them, is the most recommended and best auto transport quote. We have countless satisfied Expedited rate customers because the vehicle shipping process tends to go quicker. 

The Rush rate is our highest level of car transport quotes and service, and many customers are glad they went with that method too. If in a hurry, go Rush rate.

Direct Express Auto Transport Changed The Car Shipping Industry

Direct Express Auto Transport started doing business in 2004. We came into the car shipping industry with a novel idea. Before us, no company had an instant quote calculator on their website. It simply did not exist. 

Further, no car shipping company would even provide an auto shipping quote without first knowing the caller’s personal information, such as name, telephone number, email, and physical address. We were astounded by that. So we threw a monkey wrench of sorts into the industry. 

Direct Express Auto Transport installed on our website the car shipping industry’s first instant quote calculator. We did not ask then and do not ask now, for any personal information before giving a quote. 

Top Banner Photo By Rnl2294 – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=134272962

Car Transport Cost: FAQ

  • Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

    About 97% of all vehicle shipments are shipped on an Open Trailer. It’s proven to be a very safe method with statistically very few problems. You may notice new cars being delivered to dealerships in an open trailer, and that’s because it’s safe. If you have a collector car or really expensive automobile, say around $75,000 or more, then we recommend shipping it in an Enclosed Trailer. Expect to pay about 33-50% more for an Enclosed transport. Our auto shipping costs calculator automatically adds the extra enclosed car transport estimate to your quote, so you can experiment with the quotes if you like.

  • How Long Will It Take To Pick Up My Vehicle?

    Over 90% of our orders ship inside of one week. That could be anywhere from 1 to 7 days. Most of the U.S. population lives in a major metropolitan area and is shipping to another well populated area, and that makes a big difference. Cars usually ship in a very regular manner, almost half within just a few days.

    If either your origination or destination locations are away from population centers, in other words, in a remote area, then you might consider meeting a driver in a nearby big city or town to increase your chances of shipping timely. Or adding money to the carrier fee may entice a carrier. Remember, anyone you choose can serve as your point of contact, which takes the stress out of shipping your vehicle.

  • How Do I Prepare My Vehicle For Shipment?

    Clean out your vehicle of all loose items as much as possible. Leave nothing of value in the vehicle. It’s very rare that any items are stolen during transport, but we recommend extra caution to prevent loss.

    Keep extra items as previously discussed to a minimum and place in the trunk or out of sight. Have only about a quarter tank of gasoline. Give the auto transport carrier a set of keys and advise them of any special instructions for your vehicle, like difficulty starting, steering, braking, etc.

    Driver Consideration: Being a truck driver can be a thankless job. They work long hours and are away from their families for weeks at a time. Please be friendly and considerate to our drivers, and they will treat you in the same manner.

  • How Are Car Shipping Quotes Calculated?

    The first factor used to calculate car shipping cost is the transport distance. Next are the length, height and weight of the vehicle, followed by running condition and type of trailer (Open or Enclosed). Finally, seasonal fluctuations may impact the overall cost.

  • Non-Running Vehicles Cost More

    Maneuvering non-operational vehicles on and off a car transport trailer is a big challenge. Car shipping companies much prefer operational (running) vehicles because it gives them an easier option to reposition their entire load. Non-running vehicles take considerably more time to get on and off the trailer. So the car shipping quote must reflect the higher cost. Many auto transporters don’t have a winch and cannot accommodate non-running vehicles. That is one reason it takes longer on average to ship non-operational vehicles. Fewer do it. If at all possible, fixing your vehicle before trying to ship it will save on the non-running car transport cost, and make the process go faster.

  • How Long Does It Take To Deliver My Vehicle?

    Delivering is final step in the process, and also the simplest part. Once your vehicle has been assigned and picked up, not too much can go wrong. Once the vehicle is picked up, you can estimate that it will take roughly 1 day of transit time for every 500 miles distance. Delivery Time Estimate Guide 100-500 miles takes 1 or 2 days 500-1000 miles takes 2 or 3 days 1000-1500 miles takes 3 or 4 days 1500-2000 miles takes 4 or 5 days 2000-2500 miles takes 5 or 6 days 2500-3000 miles takes 6 or 7 days Depending on the distance, weather conditions and population centers it could be a few days or weeks until a vehicle reaches its destination. The carriers usually estimate about 10 days on coast to coast trips, but they frequently arrive earlier.

  • Can I Put Stuff In My Car When I Ship It?

    Yes and no. The strict interpretation is no, you can’t ship items inside your vehicle. The reality is that almost all carriers look the other way on items that weigh less than 100 pounds, roughly the equivalent of 2 suitcases. We recommend placing any additional items in the trunk and out of sight. The U.S. Transportation Law states that a carrier can be fined $10,000 for hauling household items in the vehicle, but it’s rarely enforced. However, the drivers do estimate the weight of each vehicle that they carry and don’t want problems at weight scales. So they must keep the personal items to a minimum. Some drivers will accept a tip ($50-$250) for hauling extra stuff, but some won’t. Rule of thumb, don’t take advantage.

Related Articles

  • Open vs Enclosed Car Transport Service

    Read more

Continue reading

photo of Downtown_Austin,_Texas_ ship a vehicle

When To Ship A Vehicle To Austin, TX

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Transport Logistics, Auto Transport Quote Calculator, Auto Transport Tips, Best Seasons To Ship A Car Advice, Car Shipping Advice, Car Shipping Service, Seasonal Fluctuations, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

When To Ship A Vehicle To Austin, TX

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

photo of Downtown_Austin,_Texas_ ship a vehicle

When To Ship A Vehicle To Austin, TX

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Related Topic Resources

The change in seasons affects Austin car shipping quotes, carrier fees, and timeframes. When is it most ideal to ship a vehicle to Austin? Depending on the season, your approach to transporting a car to Austin should also change.

We include in this blog, great advice on what you should do to have a successful experience. We have learned the ideal time to ship a car to Austin, Texas in all the seasons and share our wisdom with you here in this article.

OUR RESEARCH METHODOLOGY:

Direct Express Auto Transport has over 20 years of expert experience in car shipping to Austin, Texas. For many years, we have logged the number of single-vehicle Sedans, SUVs, Pickup Trucks, and Vans system-wide (not just our orders) that are available to ship on the most widely used auto transport load board. 

To make it more informative in our study, we do not include multiple vehicle orders, which are anywhere from 2 to 10 vehicles on a vehicle transport trailer, because we are better able to assess market volume changes. Direct Express Auto Transport has been doing this kind of market analysis for the better part of twenty years. Our saved data is exhaustive and reveals a story of what to expect when you ship a vehicle to Austin, TX.

Key Takeaways: 

  • Car shipping to Austin is affected by the seasons.
  • The highest vehicle shipping cost to Austin is around the Christmas and New Year holidays during the Winter season.
  • The cheapest auto transport quotes to Austin are in the Autumn season, particularly in November and early December.
  • The car shipping cost to Austin is elevated, higher than most routes, for the Winter, Spring, and Summer seasons.
  • Year-round, vehicle shipping to Austin normally costs more than the reverse.

In This Blog Article:

Ship A Vehicle To Austin, TX In The Spring Season

In the Spring Season, the volume of orders to Austin is higher than normal. The Spring Season in Texas is nothing like the Spring Season in Florida. The ratios stay elevated car shipping to Austin, TX throughout the Spring. It is close to 2 to 1 the entire season.

The Toughest Time Of Year To Ship A Car To Austin

Other than the New Year’s holiday, the most prolonged and toughest time of year for auto transport pricing to Austin, Texas occurs in the Spring and Summer Seasons. 

With so many vehicles shipping to Austin, and so few leaving, the reverse route from Austin, TX becomes incredibly cheap. Enjoy it while you can. 

Do Not Book A Car Shipment To Austin Too Early

In the auto transport industry, as far as the carriers are concerned, it does not matter to them when an order is booked. In other words, it is not first come … first served. So nobody has reserved a spot, a space, on a transport trailer simply by booking their order weeks or even months in advance. 

What matters to vehicle transport carriers are their profits. To that end, they choose orders, which they call loads, that are the highest paying, or logistically make the most sense with an eye always on the bottom line. The carriers seek to maximize their profit, like everybody else.

Do not book an automobile shipment to Austin, TX too early. You might be priced too low, in which case, your car will likely be rejected by the carriers and won’t ship. Or if it does ship, it will be the last to do so, and probably far later than you had hoped. 

Conversely, booking too early might also mean you unwittingly committed to a higher-than-necessary price to ship your car in a timely fashion. The high price might have been the market rate at the time of booking, but in the interim, auto shipping rates may have come down and you won’t enjoy the savings. 

It is always best to have the current market pricing, which guards against both too low and too high a transport price. 

Book Your Car Shipment To Austin About One Week Before Availability

Direct Express Auto Transport has been in the car shipping industry for a long time. Over twenty years. We say a good rule of thumb is to book your car shipment to Austin, TX about 7 days before availability. 

Most auto transport carriers will not commit to a vehicle shipment more than three days in advance of availability. What has anyone gained, therefore, from booking weeks in advance? The answer is nothing, of course. 

So why book much earlier than one week before availability?

Spring Season Auto Transport To Texas Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To TX Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From TX Comments About Spring Season Car Shipping To Texas
1st Week of March 3289 1.6:1 The ratio is nearly 2-1 cars shipping to TX
2nd Week of March 3730 1.6:1 It stays that way for several weeks
3rd Week of March 3339 1.6:1 College Spring Break in Texas
4th Week of March 4212 1.9:1 Spring Break to Texas creates demand
1st Week of April 4462 1.8:1 More Spring Break shipments
2nd Week of April 4117 1.9:1 The 2-1 ratio to TX elevates quote prices
3rd Week of April 3914 1.8:1 It is more expensive car shipping to TX …
4th Week of April 4213 1.7:1 Than shipping from Texas in the Spring
1st Week of May 4027 1.9:1 Car shipping is nearly twice as costly to TX
2nd Week of May 4193 1.5:1 There is not much let up in May
3rd Week of May 4513 1.3:1 There is also a spike in cars leaving TX
4th Week of May 4086 1.4:1 But there are still more coming than leaving
End of May / Begin June 4254 1.4:1 Memorial Day creates more backlog

Auto Transport To Austin, TX In The Summer Season

Auto transport prices to Austin in the Summer Season are just as busy as in the Spring. The auto-shipping ratio of vehicles available to ship to Austin, TX is still much higher. Which keeps vehicle shipping costs higher. 

The month of August becomes extremely busy shipping to Austin, as both the timeframe and cost rise significantly. If at all possible, avoid auto transport to Austin, TX in August. 

Conversely, you will win in August shipping from Austin.

Avoid Shipping A Vehicle To Austin, TX Around The 4th of July

Car transport carrier drivers enjoy being home as much as you do for the 4th of July festivities. The hometown parade. The barbecue with family and friends. A mid-summer rest with the people you love. 

That means fewer vehicles are getting shipped right in the middle of the busy Summer Season. Orders get backlogged. When the carriers get back to work in early July, they transport to Austin, TX the highest-paying freight first with no regard to how long a customer has been waiting. For about two weeks thereafter, many customers find it both more expensive and frustrating.

The thing to do, and here is your tip, is to avoid vehicle shipping to Austin the last week of June and the first two weeks of July. That is not a good time to ship a car.

College Students Create A Spike In Car Shipping Every August

There is a very discernible car shipping spike every year in the late Summer Season. Texas has many popular universities and colleges that attract students from all over America. For many, it is an ideal place to go to college. 

Texas colleges on the semester system create a mid-August boost in auto transport to Austin that lasts until the end of the month.

Summer Season Auto Transport To Texas Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To TX Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From TX Comments About Summer Season Car Shipping To Texas
1st Week of June 4296 1.4:1 Summer is a busy time shipping to Texas
2nd Week of June 3384 1.4:1 Pricing stays stable & high in May, June, July
3rd Week of June 3629 1.3:1 It is much cheaper shipping FROM Texas
4th Week of June 3676 1.4:1 Because more are shipping cars to Texas …
1st Week of July 3193 1.5:1 Auto transport quotes remain higher to TX
2nd Week of July 3091 1.5:1 The 4th of July holiday created more pressure
3rd Week of July 2630 1.4:1 No break in pricing shipping to Texas
4th Week of July 2389 1.7:1 The imbalance shipping to TX gets worse
1st Week of August 3408 2:1 There are twice the cars shipping to TX
2nd Week of August 3751 1.9:1 College kids shipping cars to Texas
3rd Week of August 3378 2.2:1 Families relocating to Texas before school
4th Week of August 3402 2.4:1 A horrible time to ship a car to Texas
End of August / Begin September 3164 2.2:1 Because more than twice the vehicles are shipping TO Texas than FROM Texas

Ship A Car To Austin, TX In The Autumn Season

Vehicle shipping to Austin in the Autumn Season is easy. It is considered a slower time of year in the car shipping industry. Auto transport costs remain stable and more affordable throughout most of the Autumn Season. It is the cheapest and most ideal time of year to ship your car to Austin, TX. 

Hurricanes & Thanksgiving Can Cause Car Shipping Delays

National weather forecasters can see hurricanes forming in the Gulf of Mexico days in advance. Car transport carriers know how long they have to get out of Texas, and they avoid entirely any route there. They wait it out, which usually takes but a few days, a week at most. Those of us in the auto transport industry can tell you that climate change is real. 

September and October are the two most susceptible months for hurricanes, but of course, there are exceptions. Hurricanes create a backlog of vehicle shipments to Austin, TX that are usually overcome within a week after the event. 

At the end of November comes Thanksgiving. Like everybody else, auto transport carriers like to be home for Turkey Day too. 

Because Thanksgiving is always the fourth Thursday in November, drivers are usually home by the Wednesday before and don’t return to the road until the Monday after Thanksgiving. Essentially a five-day break for many. It takes about a week for the vehicle shipping freight system to recover and return to normal. 

Autumn Season Auto Transport To Texas Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To TX Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From TX Comments About Autumn Season Car Shipping To Texas
1st Week of September 3165 2:1 Extremely high ratio of 2-1 car shipping to TX
2nd Week of September 2720 2.3:1 Shipping to TX is very high cost early Sept
3rd Week of September 2308 2:1 Higher than normal throughout September
4th Week of September 2260 1.7:1 The almost 2-1 ratio to Texas continues
1st Week of October 1817 1.8:1 Pricing remains high due to the imbalance
2nd Week of October 2372 1.4:1 Ratios are a big deal to car shipping quotes
3rd Week of October 2294 1.3:1 Car Shipping Quotes start to come down
4th Week of October 2593 1.2:1 There is almost parity in the market
1st Week of November 2461 1:1 Best time to ship a car to Texas is now
2nd Week of November 1893 1:1 Early November is a great time to ship a car
3rd Week of November 1565 1.2:1 November is okay for car shipping to Texas
4th Week of November 2514 1.1:1 Vehicle shipping interrupted by Turkey Day
End of November / Begin December 2832 1.1:1 Thanksgiving causes a minor backlog

Ship A Vehicle To Austin, TX In The Winter Season

When we talk about seasonality in the vehicle transport industry, late December and early January are the big reasons. It becomes hectic, expensive, and stressful during that period shipping a car to Austin, TX.

When Is The Ideal Time To Ship A Vehicle To Austin, TX In The Winter?

If at all possible, you should avoid shipping a car to Austin, TX in the last week of December and the first two weeks of January.

During the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays, the auto transport carriers and brokers, and most of all the customers, are stressed.

But not all customers understand the auto transport industry, and why the order they placed weeks ago might still be waiting to ship.

Winter Season Auto Transport To Texas Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To TX Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From TX Comments About Winter Season Car Shipping To Texas
1st Week of December 1890 1.1:1 The lull from November continues
2nd Week of December 1883 1.1:1 Early December is ideal to ship a car
3rd Week of December 2679 1.4:1 The snowbird rush to TX begins in earnest
4th Week of December 4189 1.2:1 Carriers want to be home for Xmas too
1st Week of January 4822 1.1:1 The busiest week of the year is New Year’s
2nd Week of January 3234 1.2:1 Highest priced orders ship first
3rd Week of January 3071 1.3:1 2nd highest priced orders ship next
4th Week of January 2232 1.3:1 The number winnows down
1st Week of February 1923 1.4:1 A period of stability takes over
2nd Week of February 2411 1.5:1 Car transport prices remain elevated …
3rd Week of February 2357 1.4:1 Because there are more car shipping to TX
4th Week of February 2946 1:4.1 It stays that way until October
End of February / Begin March 2901 1.8:1 Twice as many vehicles are shipping to TX

Bottom Line: When To Ship A Vehicle To Austin, TX

When is the ideal time to ship a car to Austin, TX? Probably only in November, and early December. The Winter, all of Spring, and as well the Summer months, are far more expensive shipping to Austin. Which makes the reverse route in each season the exact opposite. 

The Winter season is by far the toughest for car shipping to Austin, especially around the auto transport snowbird migration in late December and January, as shipping costs soar. 

The Autumn season is ideal weather, and car transport quotes tend to be lower than average. 

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator To Austin, Texas

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping quote estimates to Austin, TX.

The Standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote. Use the Standard rate if you can be patient. 

The Expedited rate, or tier as we call them, is the most recommended and best auto transport quote. We have countless satisfied Expedited rate customers because the vehicle shipping process tends to go quicker. 

The Rush rate is our highest level of car transport quotes and service, and many customers are glad they went with that method too. If in a hurry, go Rush rate.

Direct Express Auto Transport Changed The Car Shipping Industry

Direct Express Auto Transport started doing business in 2004. We came into the car shipping industry with a novel idea. Before us, no company had an instant quote calculator on their website. It simply did not exist. 

Further, no car shipping company would even provide an auto shipping quote without first knowing the caller’s personal information, such as name, telephone number, email, and physical address. We were astounded by that. So we threw a monkey wrench of sorts into the industry. 

Direct Express Auto Transport installed on our website the car shipping industry’s first instant quote calculator. We did not ask then and do not ask now, for any personal information before giving a quote. 

Top Banner Photo By Ryan Friesen – Downtown Austin, Texas from across the Colorado River, October 2022, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=133926838

Car Transport Cost: FAQ

  • Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

    About 97% of all vehicle shipments are shipped on an Open Trailer. It’s proven to be a very safe method with statistically very few problems. You may notice new cars being delivered to dealerships in an open trailer, and that’s because it’s safe. If you have a collector car or really expensive automobile, say around $75,000 or more, then we recommend shipping it in an Enclosed Trailer. Expect to pay about 33-50% more for an Enclosed transport. Our auto shipping costs calculator automatically adds the extra enclosed car transport estimate to your quote, so you can experiment with the quotes if you like.

  • How Long Will It Take To Pick Up My Vehicle?

    Over 90% of our orders ship inside of one week. That could be anywhere from 1 to 7 days. Most of the U.S. population lives in a major metropolitan area and is shipping to another well populated area, and that makes a big difference. Cars usually ship in a very regular manner, almost half within just a few days.

    If either your origination or destination locations are away from population centers, in other words, in a remote area, then you might consider meeting a driver in a nearby big city or town to increase your chances of shipping timely. Or adding money to the carrier fee may entice a carrier. Remember, anyone you choose can serve as your point of contact, which takes the stress out of shipping your vehicle.

  • How Do I Prepare My Vehicle For Shipment?

    Clean out your vehicle of all loose items as much as possible. Leave nothing of value in the vehicle. It’s very rare that any items are stolen during transport, but we recommend extra caution to prevent loss.

    Keep extra items as previously discussed to a minimum and place in the trunk or out of sight. Have only about a quarter tank of gasoline. Give the auto transport carrier a set of keys and advise them of any special instructions for your vehicle, like difficulty starting, steering, braking, etc.

    Driver Consideration: Being a truck driver can be a thankless job. They work long hours and are away from their families for weeks at a time. Please be friendly and considerate to our drivers, and they will treat you in the same manner.

  • How Are Car Shipping Quotes Calculated?

    The first factor used to calculate car shipping cost is the transport distance. Next are the length, height and weight of the vehicle, followed by running condition and type of trailer (Open or Enclosed). Finally, seasonal fluctuations may impact the overall cost.

  • Non-Running Vehicles Cost More

    Maneuvering non-operational vehicles on and off a car transport trailer is a big challenge. Car shipping companies much prefer operational (running) vehicles because it gives them an easier option to reposition their entire load. Non-running vehicles take considerably more time to get on and off the trailer. So the car shipping quote must reflect the higher cost. Many auto transporters don’t have a winch and cannot accommodate non-running vehicles. That is one reason it takes longer on average to ship non-operational vehicles. Fewer do it. If at all possible, fixing your vehicle before trying to ship it will save on the non-running car transport cost, and make the process go faster.

  • How Long Does It Take To Deliver My Vehicle?

    Delivering is final step in the process, and also the simplest part. Once your vehicle has been assigned and picked up, not too much can go wrong. Once the vehicle is picked up, you can estimate that it will take roughly 1 day of transit time for every 500 miles distance. Delivery Time Estimate Guide 100-500 miles takes 1 or 2 days 500-1000 miles takes 2 or 3 days 1000-1500 miles takes 3 or 4 days 1500-2000 miles takes 4 or 5 days 2000-2500 miles takes 5 or 6 days 2500-3000 miles takes 6 or 7 days Depending on the distance, weather conditions and population centers it could be a few days or weeks until a vehicle reaches its destination. The carriers usually estimate about 10 days on coast to coast trips, but they frequently arrive earlier.

  • Can I Put Stuff In My Car When I Ship It?

    Yes and no. The strict interpretation is no, you can’t ship items inside your vehicle. The reality is that almost all carriers look the other way on items that weigh less than 100 pounds, roughly the equivalent of 2 suitcases. We recommend placing any additional items in the trunk and out of sight. The U.S. Transportation Law states that a carrier can be fined $10,000 for hauling household items in the vehicle, but it’s rarely enforced. However, the drivers do estimate the weight of each vehicle that they carry and don’t want problems at weight scales. So they must keep the personal items to a minimum. Some drivers will accept a tip ($50-$250) for hauling extra stuff, but some won’t. Rule of thumb, don’t take advantage.

Related Articles

  • Open vs Enclosed Car Transport Service

    Read more

Continue reading

photo of Golden Gate Bridge when best to ship a car to San Francisco

When Best To Ship A Car To San Francisco

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Transport Quote Calculator, Auto Transport Tips, Best Seasons To Ship A Car Advice, Car Shipping Advice, Car Shipping Quotes Calculator, College Student Car Shipping Tips, Expedited Rate Auto Transport, Rush Tier Car Shipping, Seasonal Fluctuations, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

When Best To Ship A Car To San Francisco

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

photo of Golden Gate Bridge when best to ship a car to San Francisco

When Best To Ship A Car To San Francisco

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Related Topic Resources

Seasonality affects San Francisco car shipping quotes, total cost, and service. When is best to ship a car to San Francisco? When to avoid it? Depending on the season, your approach to shipping a vehicle to San Francisco should change.

We include in this blog, savvy tips and strategies that will help you have a successful experience. We have learned the best time to ship a car to San Francisco, California in all four seasons and share that with you here in this article.

OUR METHODOLOGY:

Direct Express Auto Transport has over twenty years of expertise in car shipping to San Francisco, California. Every day, we log the number of single-vehicle Sedans, SUVs, Pickup Trucks, and Vans system-wide (not just our orders) that are available to ship on the most widely used car transport load board. 

To compare apples to apples, in our research, we do not include multiple vehicle orders, which are anywhere from 2 to 10 vehicles on a car transport trailer, because we are better able to assess market volume changes. Direct Express Auto Transport has been doing this kind of market analysis for the better part of twenty years. The data is rich and tells a story of car shipping to San Francisco.

Key Takeaways: 

  • Car shipping to San Francisco is affected greatly by the seasons.
  • The highest vehicle shipping cost to San Francisco is during the Christmas & New Year’s holidays, and the Autumn Season months of October and early November.
  • The cheapest auto transport quotes TO San Francisco are from May through August. The Summer Season.
  • Conversely, the most expensive car shipping quotes FROM San Francisco are also from May through August. The Summer Season.
  • The late Winter Season and early Spring reach a level of pricing parity and are a good time to ship a car to San Francisco.

In This Blog Article:

Do Not Book A Car Shipment To San Francisco Too Early

In the car shipping industry, as far as the carriers are concerned, it does not matter to them when an order is booked. In other words, it is not first come … first served. So nobody has reserved a spot, a space, on a transport trailer simply by booking their order weeks or even months in advance. 

What matters to auto transport carriers are their profits. To that end, they choose orders, which they call loads, that are the highest paying, or logistically make the most sense with an eye always on the bottom line. The carriers seek to maximize their profit, like everybody else.

Do not book a car shipment to San Francisco too early. You might be priced too low, in which case, your vehicle will likely be rejected by the carriers and won’t ship. Or if it does ship, it will be the last to do so, and probably far later than you had hoped. 

Conversely, booking too early might also mean you unwittingly committed to a higher-than-necessary price to ship your car in a timely fashion. The high price might have been the market rate at the time of booking, but in the interim, car shipping rates may have come down and you won’t enjoy the savings. 

It is always best to have the current market pricing, which guards against both too low and too high a transport price. 

Book Your Vehicle Shipment To San Francisco About One Week Before Availability

Direct Express Auto Transport has been in the car shipping business for a long time. Over twenty years. We say a good rule of thumb is to book your vehicle shipment to San Francisco about 7 days before availability. 

Most car transport carriers will not commit to a vehicle shipment more than three days in advance of availability. What has anyone gained, therefore, from booking weeks in advance? The answer is nothing, of course. 

So why book much earlier than one week before availability?

Car Shipping To San Francisco, CA In The Autumn Season

Almost year round more vehicles are being shipped from San Francisco than to it. Rarely is it the opposite. That reverses, however, in the Autumn Season when there are significantly more cars being shipped to San Francisco, which drives up the car shipping rates to San Francisco. 

It would be a good idea to steer clear of shipping a car to San Francisco in the months of October and November if your goal is to save money. 

Automobile Transport Delays To San Francisco During Thanksgiving

Toward the end of November comes Thanksgiving. Many vehicle transport drivers manipulate their route schedules to make it home for Thanksgiving. 

Thanksgiving falls every year on the fourth Thursday in November, and drivers are usually home by Tuesday or Wednesday before. They don’t get back on the road until usually the Monday after Thanksgiving. That provides a five-day break.

Autumn Season Auto Transport To California Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To CA Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From CA Comments About Autumn Season Car Shipping To California
1st Week of September 1938 1:1.4 The last of the summer exodus from CA
2nd Week of September 1984 1:1.1 Business returns to near calm & parity
3rd Week of September 1605 1:1 September slowness
4th Week of September 1748 1:1.1 And it stays that way though November
1st Week of October 1590 1.4:1 The only time all year there are far …
2nd Week of October 1530 1.4:1 … more cars shipping to Los Angeles
3rd Week of October 1674 1.4:1 October and November are the only …
4th Week of October 1815 1.5:1 … months that happens
1st Week of November 1762 1.3:1 So avoid shipping your car to Los Angeles
2nd Week of November 1592 1.2:1 … in October and early November
3rd Week of November 1256 1:1.1 Auto transport quotes are lower in late …
4th Week of November 1557 1:1.1 … November and early December
End of November / Begin December 1476 1:1 A better time to ship a car to Los Angeles

A Tough Time Of Year To Ship Your Car To San Francisco

Other than the New Year’s holiday, the most prolonged and toughest time of year for vehicle transport pricing to San Francisco, California occurs in the Autumn Season. 

In Autumn, more vehicles are shipping to San Francisco, and fewer leaving. October and November are the only two months in the year when it is harder and more expensive to ship a car to San Francisco.

Vehicle Shipping To San Francisco In The Winter Season

One of the hardest things to do is ship a car to San Francisco in the winter season. Especially during the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays. 

When we talk about the effect of seasonality on the auto transport industry, it is late December and early January that we most allude. It is chaotic, costly, and stressful during the holidays to ship a car to San Francisco. 

Once Christmas arrives, the vehicle shipping cost rises incrementally almost daily for four weeks. If a customer booked too early, he will likely have too low a price when the time comes to ship his car. He will have to wait. Or add money to rectify the dilemma. 

Here is what typically happens to the sheer number of vehicles shipping to California on any given day in the Winter Season from December through February.

Winter Season Auto Transport To California Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To CA Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From CA Comments About Winter Season Car Shipping To California
1st Week of December 1502 1:1 Early December is considered a slow time
2nd Week of December 1652 1:1.2 Still slow
3rd Week of December 1864 1:1 Not much different
4th Week of December 2354 1:1 Christmas time will cause shipping delays
1st Week of January 3094 1:1.1 Orders backlog because of New Years
2nd Week of January 2747 1:1.1 It takes a couple weeks to flush out
3rd Week of January 1928 1:1.1 A slow period starts to emerge
4th Week of January 1709 1:1.2 Post holiday – mid-winter slow
1st Week of February 1607 1:1.2 Pricing remains stable in February
2nd Week of February 1624 1:1.1 Slightly more vehicles leaving CA
3rd Week of February 1463 1:1.2 It has a marginal affect
4th Week of February 1556 1:1.1 The winter slowness continues
End of February / Begin March 1805 1:1.1 And March begins that way

When Is The Best Time To Ship A Car To San Francisco In The Winter?

If at all possible, you should avoid the last two weeks of December and the first three weeks of January. It is chaotic for brokers, carriers, and customers alike.

Auto Transport To San Francisco In The Spring Season

The early Spring months in March are very manageable for car shipping to or from San Francisco. But starting in late April, and throughout all of May, significantly more vehicles are shipping from San Francisco than to it. That serves to drive down the auto transport cost to San Francisco in the Spring Season. It is a great time to ship a car to San Francisco.

Spring Season Auto Transport To California Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To CA Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From CA Comments About Spring Season Car Shipping To California
1st Week of March 1802 1:1 Complete parity coming and going to CA
2nd Week of March 1829 1:1 It stays that way for awhile
3rd Week of March 1877 1:1.1 It is still slow around St. Patrick’s Day
4th Week of March 2390 1.1:1 Ratios of 1:1 or 1:1.1 don’t mean much
1st Week of April 2450 1:1 They don’t move the pricing needle
2nd Week of April 2396 1:1.1 It stays that way thru mid April
3rd Week of April 2132 1:1.2 Things start to heat up shipping from CA
4th Week of April 2312 1:1.3 And car shipping costs go down to CA
1st Week of May 2859 1:1.5 May is a wonderful time to ship to CA
2nd Week of May 3297 1:1.4 But a tough time shipping from CA
3rd Week of May 3602 1:1.3 It stays that way from May and thru …
4th Week of May 3384 1:1.4 the Summer Season
End of May / Begin June 3228 1:1.5 Memorial Day

Car Transport To San Francisco In The Summer Season

Auto transport to San Francisco in the Summer Season is far busier than in the Spring Season. The ratios can be deceiving relative to the volume of activity. The reason there appear to be fewer cars on any given day being shipped to San Francisco in the Summer is only because what becomes available doesn’t stay on the load board very long. 

Because there are often two or three times more cars shipping from San Francisco in the Summer, it creates a high demand for vehicles shipping there. Rest assured that there are still plenty of orders being placed every day in the Summer to San Francisco and gobbled up quickly. 

Auto transport costs to San Francisco in the Summer Season are less than from San Francisco. It occasionally costs about 20-30% more to ship from San Francisco in the Summer Season than it does going there.

Avoid Shipping A Vehicle Around The 4th of July

Car transport carrier drivers enjoy being home as much as you do for the 4th of July festivities. The hometown parade. The barbecue with family and friends. A mid-summer rest with the people you love. 

The 4th of July holiday creates a backlog of car shipping orders. It gets worse if the 4th falls on a Wednesday, as drivers are divided on whether to enjoy a five-day holiday before or after the 4th of July. Ugh. 

If the 4th of July falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, the mini-vacation weekend becomes more clear. But the holiday is slightly prolonged and orders are still backed up in the freight system. 

When the carriers get back to work in early July, the highest-paying vehicle shipping orders get assigned first. For about two weeks thereafter, many customers find it both more expensive and frustrating.

The thing to do, and here is your tip, is to avoid vehicle shipping to San Francisco the last week of June and the first week of July.

College Students Cause Havoc In Auto Shipping Every August

There is a very discernible car shipping spike every year in the late Summer Season shipping from California. While California has many popular universities and colleges that attract students from all over America, still there are far more California college students leaving the state for universities out-of-state.

That helps make car shipping to California in late August both cheaper and faster. 

Summer Season Auto Transport To California Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To CA Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From CA Comments About Summer Season Car Shipping To California
1st Week of June 3238 1:1.5 Summer is the busiest season in CA
2nd Week of June 2710 1:1.8 The ratios in June shoot upward from CA
3rd Week of June 2580 1:2 Which causes prices to CA to dive
4th Week of June 2777 1:2 And overall makes the Summer the best
1st Week of July 2174 1:2.3 … time to ship a car to CA
2nd Week of July 2097 1:2.1 There is an inverse relationship from CA
3rd Week of July 1701 1:2.6 Where the volume and ratio cause prices
4th Week of July 1727 1:2.7 … from CA to skyrocket
1st Week of August 1898 1:2.9 More CA college students leave the state
2nd Week of August 1903 1:3 … than come to CA for college
3rd Week of August 1951 1:2.7 It drives car shipping to CA down
4th Week of August 1996 1:2.1 And stays that way all the way to …
End of August / Begin September 1807 1:2 Labor Day

Bottom Line: When Best To Ship A Car To San Francisco

When is the best time to ship a car to San Francisco? Probably the Spring and Summer seasons. Car shipping quotes tend to be lower and service faster. The Autumn and Winter Seasons are more costly. 

As far as car shipping to San Francisco goes, some seasons are much easier than others. 

The Autumn Season is steady for car shipping to San Francisco at the beginning (in September) and at the end (November), but is more expensive in October and most of November (until Thanksgiving).

The Winter season is the hardest and most expensive around the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays. 

The Spring Season is a good time for vehicle shipping to San Francisco. 

The Summer Season is a difficult time shipping from San Francisco, but that makes it ideal for transport to San Francisco. 

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator To San Francisco, California

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping quote estimates to San Francisco, CA.

The Standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote. Use the Standard rate if you can be patient. 

The Expedited rate, or tier as we call them, is the most recommended and best auto transport quote. We have countless satisfied Expedited rate customers because the vehicle shipping process tends to go quicker. 

The Rush rate is our highest level of car transport quotes and service, and many customers are glad they went with that method too. If in a hurry, go Rush rate. 

How To Choose The Best Auto Transport Rate To San Francisco, CA

Direct Express Auto Transport uniquely has three levels of service on every route, including shipping a car to San Francisco. The customers who choose the highest Rush rate are typically happiest with the service. 

The customers who choose the Expedited rate are often satisfied with the results. 

Those who book the Standard rate to San Francisco during the busy season are sometimes frustrated waiting their turn. 

Regardless of the season, the smartest thing to do if you are in a hurry is to ship your car with the higher Rush or Expedited rates.

Car Transport Cost: FAQ

  • Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

    About 97% of all vehicle shipments are shipped on an Open Trailer. It’s proven to be a very safe method with statistically very few problems. You may notice new cars being delivered to dealerships in an open trailer, and that’s because it’s safe. If you have a collector car or really expensive automobile, say around $75,000 or more, then we recommend shipping it in an Enclosed Trailer. Expect to pay about 33-50% more for an Enclosed transport. Our auto shipping costs calculator automatically adds the extra enclosed car transport estimate to your quote, so you can experiment with the quotes if you like.

  • How Long Will It Take To Pick Up My Vehicle?

    Over 90% of our orders ship inside of one week. That could be anywhere from 1 to 7 days. Most of the U.S. population lives in a major metropolitan area and is shipping to another well populated area, and that makes a big difference. Cars usually ship in a very regular manner, almost half within just a few days.

    If either your origination or destination locations are away from population centers, in other words, in a remote area, then you might consider meeting a driver in a nearby big city or town to increase your chances of shipping timely. Or adding money to the carrier fee may entice a carrier. Remember, anyone you choose can serve as your point of contact, which takes the stress out of shipping your vehicle.

  • How Do I Prepare My Vehicle For Shipment?

    Clean out your vehicle of all loose items as much as possible. Leave nothing of value in the vehicle. It’s very rare that any items are stolen during transport, but we recommend extra caution to prevent loss.

    Keep extra items as previously discussed to a minimum and place in the trunk or out of sight. Have only about a quarter tank of gasoline. Give the auto transport carrier a set of keys and advise them of any special instructions for your vehicle, like difficulty starting, steering, braking, etc.

    Driver Consideration: Being a truck driver can be a thankless job. They work long hours and are away from their families for weeks at a time. Please be friendly and considerate to our drivers, and they will treat you in the same manner.

  • How Are Car Shipping Quotes Calculated?

    The first factor used to calculate car shipping cost is the transport distance. Next are the length, height and weight of the vehicle, followed by running condition and type of trailer (Open or Enclosed). Finally, seasonal fluctuations may impact the overall cost.

  • Non-Running Vehicles Cost More

    Maneuvering non-operational vehicles on and off a car transport trailer is a big challenge. Car shipping companies much prefer operational (running) vehicles because it gives them an easier option to reposition their entire load. Non-running vehicles take considerably more time to get on and off the trailer. So the car shipping quote must reflect the higher cost. Many auto transporters don’t have a winch and cannot accommodate non-running vehicles. That is one reason it takes longer on average to ship non-operational vehicles. Fewer do it. If at all possible, fixing your vehicle before trying to ship it will save on the non-running car transport cost, and make the process go faster.

  • How Long Does It Take To Deliver My Vehicle?

    Delivering is final step in the process, and also the simplest part. Once your vehicle has been assigned and picked up, not too much can go wrong. Once the vehicle is picked up, you can estimate that it will take roughly 1 day of transit time for every 500 miles distance. Delivery Time Estimate Guide 100-500 miles takes 1 or 2 days 500-1000 miles takes 2 or 3 days 1000-1500 miles takes 3 or 4 days 1500-2000 miles takes 4 or 5 days 2000-2500 miles takes 5 or 6 days 2500-3000 miles takes 6 or 7 days Depending on the distance, weather conditions and population centers it could be a few days or weeks until a vehicle reaches its destination. The carriers usually estimate about 10 days on coast to coast trips, but they frequently arrive earlier.

  • Can I Put Stuff In My Car When I Ship It?

    Yes and no. The strict interpretation is no, you can’t ship items inside your vehicle. The reality is that almost all carriers look the other way on items that weigh less than 100 pounds, roughly the equivalent of 2 suitcases. We recommend placing any additional items in the trunk and out of sight. The U.S. Transportation Law states that a carrier can be fined $10,000 for hauling household items in the vehicle, but it’s rarely enforced. However, the drivers do estimate the weight of each vehicle that they carry and don’t want problems at weight scales. So they must keep the personal items to a minimum. Some drivers will accept a tip ($50-$250) for hauling extra stuff, but some won’t. Rule of thumb, don’t take advantage.

Related Articles

  • Open vs Enclosed Car Transport Service

    Read more

Continue reading

Photo of sunset downtown Los Angeles when to ship a car

When To Ship A Car To Los Angeles

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Transport Quote Calculator, Auto Transport Services, Auto Transport Tips, Car Shipping Advice, Car Shipping Cost Calculator, Car Shipping Quotes Calculator, Car Shipping Service, Car Transport Cost per Mile, Door To Door Auto Transport, Expedited Rate Auto Transport, Rush Tier Car Shipping, Seasonal Fluctuations, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

When To Ship A Car To Los Angeles

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Photo of sunset downtown Los Angeles when to ship a car

When To Ship A Car To Los Angeles

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Related Topic Resources

The four seasons greatly affect Los Angeles car shipping quotes, overall cost, and level of service. Here is when to ship a car to Los Angeles. Depending on the season, your approach to shipping a vehicle to Los Angeles should change.

We include in this blog savvy tips and strategies that will help you have a successful experience. We have learned the best time to ship a car to Los Angeles, California in all four seasons.

OUR METHODOLOGY:

Direct Express Auto Transport has over twenty years of experience shipping cars to Los Angeles, California. We track daily the number of single-vehicle Sedans, SUVs, Pickup Trucks, and Vans system-wide that are available to ship on an auto transport load board. 

We omit here in our study multiple vehicle orders, those that are anywhere from 2 to 10 vehicles on the car transport trailer because we are better able to assess market volume changes. The numbers tell the story of car shipping to Los Angeles, and we share the past year’s results in this blog.

Key Takeaways: 

  • Car shipping to Los Angeles is affected greatly by the seasons.
  • The highest vehicle shipping cost to Los Angeles is during the Christmas & New Year’s holidays, and the Autumn Season months of October and early November.
  • The cheapest auto transport quotes TO Los Angeles are from May through August. The Summer Season.
  • Conversely, the most expensive car shipping quotes FROM Los Angeles are also from May through August. The Summer Season.
  • The late Winter Season and early Spring reach a level of pricing parity and are a good time to ship a car to Los Angeles.

In This Blog Article:

Shipping A Car To Los Angeles In The Winter Season

We start with the hard part first, shipping a car to Los Angeles in the winter season. Specifically, over the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays. 

When we talk about seasonality in the vehicle transport industry, late December and early January are big reasons. It is hectic, expensive, and stressful during the holidays shipping a car to Los Angeles. 

Direct Express Auto Transport has over twenty years of experience shipping cars to Los Angeles, California. We track daily the number of single-vehicle Sedans, SUVs, Pickup Trucks, and Vans system-wide that are available to ship on the auto transport load board. 

We omit here in our study multiple vehicle orders, those that are anywhere from 2 to 10 vehicles on the car transport trailer because we are better able to assess market volume changes. 

The numbers tell the story of car shipping to Los Angeles, and we share the past year’s California results in this blog. 

Here is what typically happens to the sheer number of vehicles car shipping to California on any given day in the Winter Season from December to February.

Winter Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Winter Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of December 3288 1.3:1 Thanksgiving causes a mini-backlog
2nd Week of December 2056 1.6:1 Early December mirrors November volume
3rd Week of December 3306 1.5:1 The snowbird rush to FL begins in earnest
4th Week of December 4085 1.8:1 Carriers want to be home for Xmas too
1st Week of January 6785 2.1:1 And New Year’s … busiest week of the year
2nd Week of January 5400 2.2:1 Highest priced orders ship first
3rd Week of January 3770 1.6:1 2nd highest priced orders ship next
4th Week of January 3417 1.6:1 Eventually all the snowbirds ship a vehicle
1st Week of February 2153 1.3:1 It took a month for a return to normalcy
2nd Week of February 2311 1:1 February is so calm compared to January
3rd Week of February 1711 1:1 Crickets … nothing but crickets
4th Week of February 1627 1:1.3 Late February is a very good time to ship
End of February / Begin March 1791 1:1.5 An ideal time to ship a car to Florida

When Is The Best Time To Ship A Car To Los Angeles In The Winter?

If at all possible, you should avoid the last two weeks of December and the first two weeks of January to ship a car to Los Angeles. It is hectic for everybody. Just look at the chart and see how the number of vehicles available to ship skyrockets fourfold around the holidays. It is more than the car transportation system can handle. 

During the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays, the vehicle transport carriers and brokers, and most of all the customers, are stressed. The carriers and brokers understand what is happening … why some orders ship and others that are priced too cheap – don’t. 

But not all customers understand the auto transport industry, and why the order they placed weeks ago is still languishing in their cold driveway.

Do Not Book A Vehicle Shipment To Los Angeles Too Soon

The car shipping industry is not first come, first served. Once Christmas arrives, the vehicle shipping cost rises incrementally almost daily for four weeks. If a customer booked too early, he will likely have too low a price when the time comes to ship his car. He will have to wait. Or add money to rectify the dilemma. 

The carriers are not concerned with when any particular order was booked. What matters to them is maximizing their profit, as anyone would be. The carriers quite naturally choose to haul the highest-paying vehicles available. For them, it is a feeding frenzy. Kind of like Piranha. 

Fortunately, as you may observe from the ratios in the Winter Season table, there is near parity with the number of vehicles coming and going in California. That helps keep pricing and timeframes stable in Los Angeles.

Book Your Car Shipment Order To Los Angeles About One Week Prior

A good rule of thumb is to book your vehicle shipment to Los Angeles about 7 days before availability. The overwhelming majority of auto transport carriers will not commit to picking up a car shipment more than three days in advance of the vehicle availability. 

So why book much earlier than that? It is almost always best to have current auto transport market pricing. If it’s high, then there’s no way around it, you gotta pay it to get your car shipped. Because other cars will ship and yours won’t.

How To Select The Best Car Shipping Rate To Los Angeles, CA

Direct Express Auto Transport uniquely has three levels of service on every route, including shipping a car to Los Angeles. The customers who choose the highest Rush rate are typically happiest with the service. 

The customers who choose the Expedited rate are often satisfied with the results. 

Those who book the Standard rate to Los Angeles during the busy season are sometimes frustrated waiting their turn. 

We are writing this blog to give good advice to unaware customers. The smartest thing to do if you are in a hurry is to ship your car with the higher Rush or Expedited rates. 

Transporting A Vehicle To Los Angeles In The Spring Season

Almost all of March is kind of slow shipping either to or from Los Angeles. But starting in late April, and throughout all of May, significantly more vehicles are shipping from Los Angeles than to it. Well then, the auto transport cost becomes lower to Los Angeles in the Spring Season and it is a great time to ship there. You picked a good time to ship a car to the City of Angels.

Spring Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Spring Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of March 3593 1:1.3 March is generally calm
2nd Week of March 3708 1:1.4 Normal low activity in March to FL
3rd Week of March 3102 1:1.6 A great time to ship to Florida
4th Week of March 2226 1:2 Snowbirds leaving
1st Week of April 2716 1:2 Snowbirds leaving Florida
2nd Week of April 2228 1:2.5 The best time to ship a car to Florida
3rd Week of April 1950 1:3 Cheap car shipping period to Florida
4th Week of April 2659 1:2.7 Snowbirds leaving is great for the reverse
1st Week of May 3230 1:2.9 May is ideal for shipping to FL
2nd Week of May 2181 1:4.3 Vehicles ship to Florida quickly because …
3rd Week of May 2262 1:3.7 There are fourfold cars leaving Florida
4th Week of May 1886 1:3.4 May is cheapest month to ship to Florida
End of May / Begin June 3166 1:2.1 Memorial Day

After the Winter Season, there are a couple of months of relatively normal vehicle shipping activity to Fort Lauderdale and the rest of Florida.

Auto Transport To Los Angeles In The Summer Season

Auto transport to Los Angeles in the Summer Season is far busier than in the Spring Season. The ratios can be deceiving relative to the volume of activity. The reason there appear to be fewer cars on any given day being shipped to Los Angeles in the Summer is only because what becomes available doesn’t stay on the load board very long. 

Because there are often two or three times more cars shipping from Los Angeles in the Summer, it creates a high demand for vehicles shipping there. Rest assured that there are still plenty of orders being placed every day in the Summer to Los Angeles and gobbled up quickly. 

Avoid Shipping Your Vehicle Around The 4th of July

Car transport carrier drivers enjoy being home as much as you do for the 4th of July festivities. The hometown parade. The barbecue with family and friends. A mid-summer rest with the people you love. 

That means fewer vehicles are getting shipped right in the middle of the busy Summer Season. Orders get backlogged. When the carriers get back to work in early July, they transport to Los Angeles the highest-paying freight first with no regard to how long a customer has been waiting. For about two weeks thereafter, many customers find it both more expensive and frustrating.

The thing to do, and here is your tip, is to avoid vehicle shipping to Los Angeles the last week of June and the first two weeks of July. That is not a good time to ship a car. 

College Students Create A Spike In Car Shipping Every August

There is a very discernible car shipping spike every year in the late Summer Season shipping from California. While California has many popular universities and colleges that attract students from all over America, still there are far more California college students leaving the state for universities out-of-state.

That helps make car shipping to California in late August both cheaper and faster.

Auto transport costs to Los Angeles in the Summer Season are less than from Los Angeles. It occasionally costs about 20-30% more to ship from the entire state of California in the Summer Season than it does going there. 

Vehicle Shipping To Los Angeles, CA In The Autumn Season

Vehicle shipping to Los Angeles in the Autumn Season is the only time of year when slightly more cars are being shipped to there than from there. In every other season, it is either the opposite or at minimum, parity. 

Autumn is generally considered a slow time of year in the car shipping industry. Auto transport costs remain relatively stable and more affordable throughout most of the Autumn Season. It is a good time of year to ship your car to Los Angeles. 

Summer Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Summer Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of June 3228 1:1.9 Snowbird season FROM FL continues
2nd Week of June 2973 1:1.6 Early June is ideal car shipping TO FL
3rd Week of June 2483 1:1.5 It is cheap auto transport to Florida
4th Week of June 2834 1:1.2 A transition starts to happen in Florida
1st Week of July 2440 1:1.3 The 4th of July creates a mini backlog
2nd Week of July 3328 1:1.1 A week of parity shipping TO and FRO
3rd Week of July 2331 1.3:1 Suddenly it is more costly car shipping to FL
4th Week of July 2075 1.2:1 But only slightly more expensive TO Florida
1st Week of August 3287 1.4:1 August is not a good month shipping TO FL
2nd Week of August 3419 2.1:1 College kids shipping cars to Florida
3rd Week of August 3062 2.1:1 Families relocating to Florida before school
4th Week of August 2901 2.1:1 A horrible time to ship a car to Florida
End of August / Begin September 2610 2:1 Because more than twice the vehicles are shipping TO Florida than FROM Florida

Thanksgiving Can Cause Transport Delays To Los Angeles

September, October, and the first half of November are fairly tranquil months for car shipping services just about anywhere in the country. That certainly holds for Los Angeles.

However, toward the end of November comes Thanksgiving. Like everybody else, auto transport carrier drivers would like to be home for Turkey Day too. 

Because Thanksgiving is always the fourth Thursday in November, drivers are usually home by the Wednesday before and don’t return to the road until the Monday after Thanksgiving. Essentially a five-day break for many. It takes about one week afterward for the vehicle shipping system to recover and return to equilibrium.

The Toughest Time Of Year To Ship Your Car To Los Angeles

Other than the New Year’s holiday, the most prolonged and toughest time of year for auto transport pricing to Los Angeles, California occurs in the Autumn Season. 

In Autumn, more vehicles are shipping to Los Angeles, and fewer leaving. October and November are the only two months in the year when it is harder and more expensive to ship a car to Los Angeles.

Autumn Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Autumn Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of September 2302 1.9:1 Extremely high ratio of 2-1 car shipping to FL
2nd Week of September 2295 1.6:1 Shipping to FL is very high cost early Sept
3rd Week of September 3601 1.4:1 Higher than normal throughout September
4th Week of September 4005 1.4:1 The high ratio to FL continues
1st Week of October 2139 1.8:1 Pricing remains high due to the imbalance
2nd Week of October 3254 1.5:1 Car shipping cost to FL is still very high
3rd Week of October 2700 2.7:1 Ratios are way out of whack to Florida
4th Week of October 2568 2.9:1 Car shipping costs to Florida skyrocket
1st Week of November 2622 2.5:1 Pricing remains high due to the imbalance
2nd Week of November 2008 2.1:1 Early November is a bad time to ship to FL
3rd Week of November 1518 1.4:1 mid-November starts to calm down
4th Week of November 2243 1.3:1 Vehicle shipping interrupted by Turkey Day
End of November / Begin December 2422 1.7:1 Thanksgiving causes car shipment backlogs to Florida for a week or more

Bottom Line: When To Ship A Car To Los Angeles

When is the best time to ship a car to Los Angeles? Probably the Spring and Summer seasons. Car shipping quotes tend to be lower and service faster. The Autumn and Winter Seasons are more costly. 

As far as car shipping to Los Angeles goes, some seasons are much easier than others. The Winter season is the hardest and most expensive around the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays. The Spring Season is an ideal time for vehicle shipping to L.A. 

The Summer Season is a difficult time shipping from Los Angeles, but that makes it ideal for transport to Los Angeles. Finally, the Autumn Season is good for car shipping to Los Angeles at the beginning (in September) and at the end (November), but is more expensive in October.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator To Los Angeles, California

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping quote estimates to Los Angeles, CA.

The Standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote. Use the Standard rate if you can be patient. 

The Expedited rate, or tier as we call them, is the most recommended and best auto transport quote. We have countless satisfied Expedited rate customers because the vehicle shipping process tends to go quicker. 

The Rush rate is our highest level of car transport quotes and service, and many customers are glad they went with that method too. If in a hurry, go Rush rate. 

Car Transport Cost: FAQ

  • Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

    About 97% of all vehicle shipments are shipped on an Open Trailer. It’s proven to be a very safe method with statistically very few problems. You may notice new cars being delivered to dealerships in an open trailer, and that’s because it’s safe. If you have a collector car or really expensive automobile, say around $75,000 or more, then we recommend shipping it in an Enclosed Trailer. Expect to pay about 33-50% more for an Enclosed transport. Our auto shipping costs calculator automatically adds the extra enclosed car transport estimate to your quote, so you can experiment with the quotes if you like.

  • How Long Will It Take To Pick Up My Vehicle?

    Over 90% of our orders ship inside of one week. That could be anywhere from 1 to 7 days. Most of the U.S. population lives in a major metropolitan area and is shipping to another well populated area, and that makes a big difference. Cars usually ship in a very regular manner, almost half within just a few days.

    If either your origination or destination locations are away from population centers, in other words, in a remote area, then you might consider meeting a driver in a nearby big city or town to increase your chances of shipping timely. Or adding money to the carrier fee may entice a carrier. Remember, anyone you choose can serve as your point of contact, which takes the stress out of shipping your vehicle.

  • How Do I Prepare My Vehicle For Shipment?

    Clean out your vehicle of all loose items as much as possible. Leave nothing of value in the vehicle. It’s very rare that any items are stolen during transport, but we recommend extra caution to prevent loss.

    Keep extra items as previously discussed to a minimum and place in the trunk or out of sight. Have only about a quarter tank of gasoline. Give the auto transport carrier a set of keys and advise them of any special instructions for your vehicle, like difficulty starting, steering, braking, etc.

    Driver Consideration: Being a truck driver can be a thankless job. They work long hours and are away from their families for weeks at a time. Please be friendly and considerate to our drivers, and they will treat you in the same manner.

  • How Are Car Shipping Quotes Calculated?

    The first factor used to calculate car shipping cost is the transport distance. Next are the length, height and weight of the vehicle, followed by running condition and type of trailer (Open or Enclosed). Finally, seasonal fluctuations may impact the overall cost.

  • Non-Running Vehicles Cost More

    Maneuvering non-operational vehicles on and off a car transport trailer is a big challenge. Car shipping companies much prefer operational (running) vehicles because it gives them an easier option to reposition their entire load. Non-running vehicles take considerably more time to get on and off the trailer. So the car shipping quote must reflect the higher cost. Many auto transporters don’t have a winch and cannot accommodate non-running vehicles. That is one reason it takes longer on average to ship non-operational vehicles. Fewer do it. If at all possible, fixing your vehicle before trying to ship it will save on the non-running car transport cost, and make the process go faster.

  • How Long Does It Take To Deliver My Vehicle?

    Delivering is final step in the process, and also the simplest part. Once your vehicle has been assigned and picked up, not too much can go wrong. Once the vehicle is picked up, you can estimate that it will take roughly 1 day of transit time for every 500 miles distance. Delivery Time Estimate Guide 100-500 miles takes 1 or 2 days 500-1000 miles takes 2 or 3 days 1000-1500 miles takes 3 or 4 days 1500-2000 miles takes 4 or 5 days 2000-2500 miles takes 5 or 6 days 2500-3000 miles takes 6 or 7 days Depending on the distance, weather conditions and population centers it could be a few days or weeks until a vehicle reaches its destination. The carriers usually estimate about 10 days on coast to coast trips, but they frequently arrive earlier.

  • Can I Put Stuff In My Car When I Ship It?

    Yes and no. The strict interpretation is no, you can’t ship items inside your vehicle. The reality is that almost all carriers look the other way on items that weigh less than 100 pounds, roughly the equivalent of 2 suitcases. We recommend placing any additional items in the trunk and out of sight. The U.S. Transportation Law states that a carrier can be fined $10,000 for hauling household items in the vehicle, but it’s rarely enforced. However, the drivers do estimate the weight of each vehicle that they carry and don’t want problems at weight scales. So they must keep the personal items to a minimum. Some drivers will accept a tip ($50-$250) for hauling extra stuff, but some won’t. Rule of thumb, don’t take advantage.

Related Articles

  • Open vs Enclosed Car Transport Service

    Read more

Continue reading

Pompano Beach auto transport logistics

Auto Transport Logistics To Pompano Beach

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Car Shipping Service, Car Show Vehicle Transport, Car Transport Calculator, Car Transport Cost per Mile, Door To Door Auto Transport, Eco-Friendly Auto Transport, Enclosed Car Transport, Exotic Car Transport, Seasonal Fluctuations, Vehicle Shipping, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

Auto Transport Logistics To Pompano Beach

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Auto Transport Logistics To Pompano Beach

Auto Transport Logistics To Pompano Beach

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Related Topic Resources

The auto transport logistics to Pompano Beach, FL, including route, timeframe, and total cost, are the most important factors for any region. A car transport service will likely ship your vehicle to there promptly, safely, and securely. Planning will save you money.

Fortunately, Pompano Beach has a large population and is a favored destination for auto transport customers from every region in the country.

The logistics of auto transport to Pompano Beach varies from region to region. Direct Express Auto Transport, with over 20 years of experience in car shipping to Pompano Beach, explains the hurdles from every corner of the country, and the number of days it will take for your vehicle to get there.

Key Takeaways: 

  • The eastern states tend to favor car shipping to the Atlantic Coast side of Florida.
  • The midwestern states gravitate toward vehicle shipping to the Gulf Coast side of Florida.
  • The rest of the country is not fussy about which side of Florida to ship a car.
  • The farther away from Pompano Beach, the harder it becomes to amalgamate a full car transport load of 8-10 vehicles.  
  • Regardless, Pompano Beach is a popular destination for auto transport. 

In This Blog Article:

Vehicle Shipping From Every State To Pompano Beach, Florida

The timeframe and logistics change from every region of the country when you are vehicle shipping to Pompano Beach. Use this blog to plan your vehicle shipment to Pompano Beach.

Vehicle Shipping To Pompano Beach From New England

The New England states (MA, RI, CT, NH, ME, VT) tend to favor vehicle shipping to the Atlantic coast side of Florida more so than the Gulf Coast. It is a straight shot about 1,500 miles down Interstate 95 from New England’s biggest city, Boston, to Pompano Beach. Your vehicle is likely to be on a vehicle shipping trailer for a minimum of three days, and more likely four or five days. 

Auto Shipping To Pompano Beach From The Eastern Seaboard

The Eastern Seaboard states (NY, PA, NJ, DE, MD, DC, VA, WV) also prefer the Atlantic coast side of Florida more so than the Gulf Coast. New York City is about 1,300 miles, and Philadelphia is roughly 1,200 miles down Interstate 95 to Pompano Beach. Your vehicle is likely to be on an auto-shipping trailer for a minimum of three days, and more likely four days. However, it is possible a carrier can make the drive in two days. 

Car Transport To Pompano Beach From The Carolinas

The Carolina states (NC, SC) are a quick car transport haul down I-95 to Pompano Beach. The largest NC city, Charlotte, is about 725 miles away, and Charleston, SC is roughly 640 miles. The weather in the Carolinas is so temperate and pleasant nearly year-round, that there is less reason to migrate to Pompano Beach. Your vehicle is likely to be on a car shipping trailer for about two days, maybe only one. 

Auto Transport To Pompano Beach From The Midwest

The Midwest states (IL, MI, OH, IN, WI) tend to favor car transporting to the Gulf Coast side of Florida more so than the eastern Atlantic coast, which includes Pompano Beach. But obviously, there are still many midwesterners who are shipping cars to Pompano Beach. 

It is about 1,400 miles down I-65, I-75, and I-95 from the Midwest’s two largest cities, Chicago and Detroit, to Pompano Beach. Your vehicle is likely to be on an auto transport trailer from either Chicago or Detroit for a minimum of three days, and more likely four or five days.

Vehicle Transport To Pompano Beach From The Upper Midwest

The Upper Midwest states (MN, IA, MO, OK, KS, NE, SD, ND) tend to favor transporting to the Gulf Coast side of Florida more so than the eastern Atlantic coast, which includes Pompano Beach. Nevertheless, there are still many upper midwesterners who transport vehicles to Pompano Beach. 

Because of the sparse population in the Upper Midwest relative to the huge geographic size, it is more difficult, and thus longer, to amalgamate full loads to Pompano Beach. 

From the largest city in the Upper Midwest, Minneapolis, it is almost 1,800 miles to Pompano Beach. From Minneapolis, for instance, your vehicle is likely to follow routes down I-35, I-380, I-24, I-75, and I-95 before reaching Pompano Beach. Your car is likely to be on a vehicle transport trailer for a minimum of four days, and more likely five or six days.

Car Shipping To Pompano Beach From The Mountain States

The Mountain states (CO, MT, WY, UT) also tend to favor transporting cars to the Gulf Coast side of Florida more so than the eastern Atlantic coast, which includes Pompano Beach. There are still those who prefer car shipping to Pompano Beach. 

The Mountain states are difficult for car shipping to Pompano Beach, because of the rugged terrain of the Rocky Mountains and huge land area. Even vehicle shipping from Denver, Colorado might take time to secure a carrier for the long 2,100-mile haul to Pompano Beach. The route most likely would be on I-70, I-75, and I-95. Your vehicle is likely to be on a car transport carrier for a minimum of four days, and probably five or six days. 

Ship A Vehicle To Pompano Beach From The Pacific Northwest

The Pacific Northwest states (WA, OR, ID) are just as likely to ship a vehicle to the Atlantic Coast side of Florida (including Pompano Beach) as they are to the Gulf Coast side. 

It is hard to get farther apart in the continental USA. The route from Seattle to Pompano Beach, for instance, is about 3,300 miles. Most people fly instead of drive, which is why they use vehicle shipping services to get their car there. From Seattle, the most common route is I-90, I-29, I-70, I-75, and finally I-95 to Pompano Beach. 

Fortunately, the Pacific Northwest has three major cities, Seattle, Portland, and Boise, that make it somewhat easier to amalgamate a full load to Pompano Beach. It still takes time to do that. 

We have found that western Washington (think Spokane), southern Oregon (think Eugene), and almost all of Idaho are especially difficult. Your car is likely to be on a vehicle shipping carrier for a minimum of seven days, and probably eight to ten days.

Car Moving To Pompano Beach From The Southwest

The Southwest states (AZ, NM, NV) make it easier to move cars to Pompano Beach than in the Mountain states or Pacific NW. For starters, the weather is less of an issue in the Southwest region. And there are major cities (Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Albuquerque) that make amalgamating full loads more timely. 

From Phoenix, the auto transport haul to Pompano Beach would almost certainly follow I-10 to I-75 before finishing on I-95. That route is almost 2,400 miles. Your car is likely to be on a car transport carrier for a minimum of five days, and probably six or seven days.

Ship Your Car To Pompano Beach From California

The Pacific Coast has a state membership of one – California (CA). One out of every eight Americans is Californian. With nearly 39 million people, ranging primarily from San Diego and the Los Angeles Basin to the San Francisco Bay Area (including Oakland and San Jose), it is no surprise that there are numerous auto shipments every week from California to Pompano Beach. 

California is so big it should be two states. We will break it into Southern & Northern California.

In southern California, sprawling Los Angeles is a huge hub for auto shipping to Pompano Beach. The route would most likely be on I-10, I-75, and I-95 and is about 2,800 miles. Your vehicle is likely to be on a car transport carrier for a minimum of six days, and probably seven to nine days.

In northern California, the San Francisco Bay Area is also a large metropolis and a favorite car shipping destination is Pompano Beach, which is about 3,000 miles away. From San Francisco, the most common route is I-880, I-5, I-40, I-20, US 287, US 49, US 98, I-10, I-75 and finally, I-95 to Pompano Beach.

Ship A Car To Pompano Beach From The Lone Star State

Texas, the Lone Star State, is deserving of special attention. And like California, it is almost like two very different states rolled into one. 

West Texas is more akin to the New Mexico desert than the much greener eastern half of Texas. It is so wide open and sparsely populated that it is difficult to amalgamate full car transport loads to Pompano Beach. Patience is required. 

El Paso, on the Mexican border, is about 2,000 miles car shipping to Pompano Beach. Your vehicle is likely to traverse I-10, I-75, and I-95. Your car is likely to be on a vehicle transport carrier for a minimum of four days, and probably five to six days.

East Texas, on the other hand, is heavily populated and teaming with large metropolitan areas and plenty of mid-size and smaller towns. It is far easier to ship a car to Pompano Beach and put together full carrier loads. Dallas is about 1,300 miles away from Pompano Beach, a significantly shorter distance than El Paso. 

From Dallas, the auto transport haul to Pompano Beach would almost certainly follow I-10, US 49, I-59, I-65, I-10 to I-75 before finishing on I-95. Your car is likely to be on a car transport carrier for a minimum of three days, and probably four or five days.

Automobile Shipping To Pompano Beach From The South

The Southern states (GA, TN, KY, AL, MS, AR, LA) don’t favor either side of Florida. Both the Gulf Coast and Atlantic Coast destinations are fairly easy for an auto transport haul. The proximity to Pompano Beach is much closer than anywhere else, save the Carolinas.

Atlanta is the biggest southern city and only about 700 miles to Pompano Beach, which would only take an auto transport carrier about two days to get there, three at most, and possibly only one day. We have seen that happen. Atlanta is a straight shot down I-75 to I-95 to Pompano Beach.

Nashville is almost just as easy, though a tad farther at about 950 miles, which is a full two days away from Pompano Beach. It might take three days on the road. A car transport carrier leaving Nashville would also take I-75 to I-95 to Pompano Beach. 

Bottom Line: Auto Transport Logistics To Pompano Beach

The auto transport logistics to Pompano Beach, FL, including route, timeframe, and total cost, should be considered first before shipping a car there. A car transport service will likely ship your vehicle promptly, safely, and securely.

But as a consumer, it is important to understand the logistics involved in vehicle shipping from your region of the country to Pompano Beach.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator To Pompano Beach

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping quote estimates to Pompano Beach, Florida.

The Standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote. Use the Standard rate if you can be patient. 

The Expedited rate, or tier as we call them, is the most recommended and best auto transport quote. We have countless satisfied Expedited rate customers because the vehicle shipping process tends to go quicker. 

The Rush rate is our highest level of car transport quotes and service, and many customers are glad they went with that method too. If in a hurry, go Rush rate. 

Car Transport Cost: FAQ

  • Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

    About 97% of all vehicle shipments are shipped on an Open Trailer. It’s proven to be a very safe method with statistically very few problems. You may notice new cars being delivered to dealerships in an open trailer, and that’s because it’s safe. If you have a collector car or really expensive automobile, say around $75,000 or more, then we recommend shipping it in an Enclosed Trailer. Expect to pay about 33-50% more for an Enclosed transport. Our auto shipping costs calculator automatically adds the extra enclosed car transport estimate to your quote, so you can experiment with the quotes if you like.

  • How Long Will It Take To Pick Up My Vehicle?

    Over 90% of our orders ship inside of one week. That could be anywhere from 1 to 7 days. Most of the U.S. population lives in a major metropolitan area and is shipping to another well populated area, and that makes a big difference. Cars usually ship in a very regular manner, almost half within just a few days.

    If either your origination or destination locations are away from population centers, in other words, in a remote area, then you might consider meeting a driver in a nearby big city or town to increase your chances of shipping timely. Or adding money to the carrier fee may entice a carrier. Remember, anyone you choose can serve as your point of contact, which takes the stress out of shipping your vehicle.

  • How Do I Prepare My Vehicle For Shipment?

    Clean out your vehicle of all loose items as much as possible. Leave nothing of value in the vehicle. It’s very rare that any items are stolen during transport, but we recommend extra caution to prevent loss.

    Keep extra items as previously discussed to a minimum and place in the trunk or out of sight. Have only about a quarter tank of gasoline. Give the auto transport carrier a set of keys and advise them of any special instructions for your vehicle, like difficulty starting, steering, braking, etc.

    Driver Consideration: Being a truck driver can be a thankless job. They work long hours and are away from their families for weeks at a time. Please be friendly and considerate to our drivers, and they will treat you in the same manner.

  • How Are Car Shipping Quotes Calculated?

    The first factor used to calculate car shipping cost is the transport distance. Next are the length, height and weight of the vehicle, followed by running condition and type of trailer (Open or Enclosed). Finally, seasonal fluctuations may impact the overall cost.

  • Non-Running Vehicles Cost More

    Maneuvering non-operational vehicles on and off a car transport trailer is a big challenge. Car shipping companies much prefer operational (running) vehicles because it gives them an easier option to reposition their entire load. Non-running vehicles take considerably more time to get on and off the trailer. So the car shipping quote must reflect the higher cost. Many auto transporters don’t have a winch and cannot accommodate non-running vehicles. That is one reason it takes longer on average to ship non-operational vehicles. Fewer do it. If at all possible, fixing your vehicle before trying to ship it will save on the non-running car transport cost, and make the process go faster.

  • How Long Does It Take To Deliver My Vehicle?

    Delivering is final step in the process, and also the simplest part. Once your vehicle has been assigned and picked up, not too much can go wrong. Once the vehicle is picked up, you can estimate that it will take roughly 1 day of transit time for every 500 miles distance. Delivery Time Estimate Guide 100-500 miles takes 1 or 2 days 500-1000 miles takes 2 or 3 days 1000-1500 miles takes 3 or 4 days 1500-2000 miles takes 4 or 5 days 2000-2500 miles takes 5 or 6 days 2500-3000 miles takes 6 or 7 days Depending on the distance, weather conditions and population centers it could be a few days or weeks until a vehicle reaches its destination. The carriers usually estimate about 10 days on coast to coast trips, but they frequently arrive earlier.

  • Can I Put Stuff In My Car When I Ship It?

    Yes and no. The strict interpretation is no, you can’t ship items inside your vehicle. The reality is that almost all carriers look the other way on items that weigh less than 100 pounds, roughly the equivalent of 2 suitcases. We recommend placing any additional items in the trunk and out of sight. The U.S. Transportation Law states that a carrier can be fined $10,000 for hauling household items in the vehicle, but it’s rarely enforced. However, the drivers do estimate the weight of each vehicle that they carry and don’t want problems at weight scales. So they must keep the personal items to a minimum. Some drivers will accept a tip ($50-$250) for hauling extra stuff, but some won’t. Rule of thumb, don’t take advantage.

Related Articles

  • Open vs Enclosed Car Transport Service

    Read more

Continue reading

Skyline photo of Miami car shipping costs calculator

When To Ship A Car To Miami

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Transport Rates, Auto Transport Services, Car Shipping Service, Car Show Vehicle Transport, Car Transport Calculator, Car Transport Estimates, Cheap Auto Transport, Classic Car Transport, Snowbird Auto Transport, Vehicle Shipping, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

When To Ship A Car To Miami

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Ship A Car To Miami

When To Ship A Car To Miami

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Related Topic Resources

Seasonality greatly affects Miami car shipping quotes, overall cost, and level of service. Here is when to ship a car to Miami. Depending on the season, your approach to shipping your vehicle to Miami should change.

We include in this blog tried and true tips and strategies that will help you have a successful experience. We think we know the best way to ship a car to Miami, Florida in all four seasons.

OUR METHODOLOGY:

Direct Express Auto Transport has over twenty years of experience shipping cars to Miami, Florida. We track daily the number of single-vehicle Sedans, SUVs, Pickup Trucks, and Vans system-wide that are available to ship on an auto transport load board. 

We omit here in our study multiple vehicle orders, those that are anywhere from 2 to 10 vehicles on the car transport trailer because we are better able to assess market volume changes. The numbers tell the story of car shipping to Miami, and we share the past year’s results in this blog.

Key Takeaways: 

  • Car shipping to Miami is affected by the seasons.
  • The highest vehicle shipping cost to Miami is around the Christmas and New Year holidays during the snowbird Winter season.
  • The cheapest auto transport quotes to Miami happen just four months later in the Spring season.
  • The late Summer season collides with college student auto shipping, and for a while, costs rise.
  • The Autumn season is an ideal time to ship your car to Miami.

In This Blog Article:

Shipping A Car To Miami In The Winter Season

We start with the hard part first, shipping a car to Miami in the winter season. Specifically, over the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays. 

When we talk about seasonality in the vehicle transport industry, late December and early January are the big reasons. No other time is as hectic and stressful as that period. 

Direct Express Auto Transport has over twenty years of experience shipping cars to Miami, Florida. We track daily the number of single-vehicle Sedans, SUVs, Pickup Trucks, and Vans system-wide that are available to ship on a popular auto transport load board. 

We omit in our study multiple vehicle orders, those that are anywhere from 2 to 10 vehicles on the car transport trailer because we are better able to assess market volume changes. The numbers tell a story and we share the past year in this blog. 

Here is what typically happens to the sheer number of vehicles car shipping to Florida on any given day in the Winter Season from December to February. It is often called Snowbird season as well. 

Winter Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Winter Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of December 3288 1.3:1 Thanksgiving causes a mini-backlog
2nd Week of December 2056 1.6:1 Early December mirrors November volume
3rd Week of December 3306 1.5:1 The snowbird rush to FL begins in earnest
4th Week of December 4085 1.8:1 Carriers want to be home for Xmas too
1st Week of January 6785 2.1:1 And New Year’s … busiest week of the year
2nd Week of January 5400 2.2:1 Highest priced orders ship first
3rd Week of January 3770 1.6:1 2nd highest priced orders ship next
4th Week of January 3417 1.6:1 Eventually all the snowbirds ship a vehicle
1st Week of February 2153 1.3:1 It took a month for a return to normalcy
2nd Week of February 2311 1:1 February is so calm compared to January
3rd Week of February 1711 1:1 Crickets … nothing but crickets
4th Week of February 1627 1:1.3 Late February is a very good time to ship
End of February / Begin March 1791 1:1.5 An ideal time to ship a car to Florida

When Is The Best Time To Ship A Car To Miami In The Winter?

If at all possible, you should avoid the last two weeks of December and the first two weeks of January. It is hectic for everybody. Just look at the chart and see how the number of vehicles available to ship skyrockets fourfold around the holidays. It is more than the car transportation system can handle. 

During the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays, the auto transport carriers and brokers, and most of all the customers, are stressed. The carriers and brokers understand what is happening … why some orders ship and others that are priced too cheap – don’t. 

But not all customers understand the auto transport industry, and why the order they placed weeks ago is still languishing in their cold driveway.

Do Not Book A Vehicle Shipment To Miami Too Soon

The car shipping industry is not first come, first served. Once Christmas arrives, the vehicle shipping cost rises incrementally almost daily for four weeks. If a customer booked too early, he will likely have too low a price when the time comes to ship his car. He will have to wait. Or add money to rectify the dilemma. 

The carriers are not concerned with when any particular order was booked. They are only concerned with maximizing their profit, as anyone would be. The carriers quite naturally choose to haul the highest-paying vehicles available. For them, it is a feeding frenzy. Kind of like Piranha. 

The car shipping carriers have a dilemma to contend with once in Miami. There is very little freight leaving Miami. Because there are so many competing car transport carriers swarming to Miami, and elsewhere in Florida, in late December and all of January, chances are high that a carrier returns home with a half-empty trailer. That means he must make money on the trip to Miami. He doesn’t have the luxury of transporting cheap orders. 

Book Your Car Shipment Order To Miami About One Week Prior

A good rule of thumb is to book your vehicle shipment to Miami about 7 days before availability. The overwhelming majority of auto transport carriers will not commit to picking up a car shipment more than three days in advance of the vehicle availability. 

So why book much earlier than that? It is almost always best to have current auto transport market pricing. If it’s high, then there’s no way around it, you gotta pay. Because other cars will ship and yours won’t.

How To Select The Best Car Shipping Rate To Miami

Direct Express Auto Transport uniquely has three levels of service on every route, including shipping a car to Miami. The customers who choose the highest Rush rate are typically happiest with the service. 

The customers who choose the Expedited rate are often satisfied with the results. 

Those who book the Standard rate to Miami during the busy snowbird season are frustrated while waiting their turn. 

We are writing this blog to give good advice to unaware customers. The smartest thing to do if you are in a hurry to ship a car is to go with the higher Rush or Expedited rates. 

Transporting A Vehicle To Miami In The Spring Season

When the Miami snowbirds return home in the Spring season, starting in late April, throughout all of May, and into early June, the above scenario repeats itself in reverse.

This blog, however, is about shipping a vehicle to Miami during the four seasons. We are advising you on the best strategy during each season. 

In the Spring Season shipping a vehicle to Miami, the volume of orders returns to normal. The Spring Season is nothing like the Winter Season. 

Spring Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Spring Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of March 3593 1:1.3 March is generally calm
2nd Week of March 3708 1:1.4 Normal low activity in March to FL
3rd Week of March 3102 1:1.6 A great time to ship to Florida
4th Week of March 2226 1:2 Snowbirds leaving
1st Week of April 2716 1:2 Snowbirds leaving Florida
2nd Week of April 2228 1:2.5 The best time to ship a car to Florida
3rd Week of April 1950 1:3 Cheap car shipping period to Florida
4th Week of April 2659 1:2.7 Snowbirds leaving is great for the reverse
1st Week of May 3230 1:2.9 May is ideal for shipping to FL
2nd Week of May 2181 1:4.3 Vehicles ship to Florida quickly because …
3rd Week of May 2262 1:3.7 There are fourfold cars leaving Florida
4th Week of May 1886 1:3.4 May is cheapest month to ship to Florida
End of May / Begin June 3166 1:2.1 Memorial Day

After the Winter Season, there are a couple of months of relatively normal vehicle shipping activity to Miami and the rest of Florida. And then there is May.

Why May Is The Cheapest Time Of Year To Ship Your Car To Miami

And then there is May, which is ridiculously advantageous for shipping a vehicle to Florida. The cheapest auto transport pricing of the year to Miami occurs in May. Why is that, you ask? In May, there are tens of thousands of snowbirds (retirees, college students, and many others) who hibernated in Miami for the winter and are returning home to the north. With so many leaving Miami, and so few coming, the reverse route to Miami becomes incredibly cheap. Enjoy it while you can. 

In May, car shipping quotes from Miami usually skyrocket as demand for car transport carrier space is very high. Available carrier space is in short supply. The inverse is true. There is an overabundance of auto transport carrier space available to Miami, which drives down the price. Therefore, May is the cheapest time of year to ship a car to Miami. 

Auto Transport To Miami In The Summer Season

Auto transport to Miami in the Summer Season is busier than the Spring or Autumn seasons, but not nearly as hectic as the Winter season. Auto transport quotes are fairly stable throughout the summer but rise significantly in August. 

The snowbirds finally return home at the end of May, with a few stragglers in early June. 

Like the rest of the country in the Summer Season, car shipping traffic tends to be families and individuals relocating from and to other states. There are more vehicle shipments than in the slower months of February, March, and April. And considerably more than September, October, and November. 

College Students Create A Spike In Car Shipping Every August

There is a very discernible car shipping spike every year in the late Summer Season. Florida has many popular universities and colleges that attract students from all over America. For many, it is an ideal place to go to college. 

Those Florida colleges on the semester system create a mid-August boost in auto transport to Miami that lasts until the end of the month. Of the nearly 800,000 Florida college students, roughly 17% are from out-of-state, which means tens of thousands suddenly require vehicle shipping services. 

Summer Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Summer Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of June 3228 1:1.9 Snowbird season FROM FL continues
2nd Week of June 2973 1:1.6 Early June is ideal car shipping TO FL
3rd Week of June 2483 1:1.5 It is cheap auto transport to Florida
4th Week of June 2834 1:1.2 A transition starts to happen in Florida
1st Week of July 2440 1:1.3 The 4th of July creates a mini backlog
2nd Week of July 3328 1:1.1 A week of parity shipping TO and FRO
3rd Week of July 2331 1.3:1 Suddenly it is more costly car shipping to FL
4th Week of July 2075 1.2:1 But only slightly more expensive TO Florida
1st Week of August 3287 1.4:1 August is not a good month shipping TO FL
2nd Week of August 3419 2.1:1 College kids shipping cars to Florida
3rd Week of August 3062 2.1:1 Families relocating to Florida before school
4th Week of August 2901 2.1:1 A horrible time to ship a car to Florida
End of August / Begin September 2610 2:1 Because more than twice the vehicles are shipping TO Florida than FROM Florida

Auto transport to Miami in the Summer Season is fairly steady and predictable because there is parity between the number of vehicles shipping from and to there. Auto transport costs remain stable throughout most of the summer.

Vehicle Shipping To Miami In The Autumn Season

Vehicle shipping to Miami in the Autumn Season is easy. It is considered a slow time of year in the car shipping industry. Car shipping costs remain stable and affordable throughout most of the Fall or Autumn Season.

Hurricanes and Thanksgiving Create Minor Backlogs

The only blips on the screen when it comes to vehicle shipping to Miami in the Autumn Season are hurricanes and Thanksgiving. And both are momentary. 

National weather forecasters can see hurricanes forming in the Caribbean or Gulf of Mexico days in advance. Car transport carriers know how long they have to get out of Florida, and they avoid entirely any route there. They wait it out, which usually takes but a few days, a week at most. 

September and October are the two most susceptible months for hurricanes, but of course, there are exceptions. Hurricanes create a backlog of vehicle shipments to Miami that are usually overcome within a week after the event. 

At the end of November comes Thanksgiving. Like everybody else, auto transport carriers like to be home for Turkey Day too. Because Thanksgiving is always the fourth Thursday in November, drivers are usually home by the Wednesday before and don’t return to the road until the Monday after Thanksgiving. Essentially a five-day break for many. It takes about a week for the vehicle shipping freight system to recover and return to equilibrium. 

Autumn Season Auto Transport To Florida Avg. Daily Single Vehicles Avail. To FL Ratio Of Vehicles Shipping To/From FL Comments About Autumn Season Car Shipping To Florida
1st Week of September 2302 1.9:1 Extremely high ratio of 2-1 car shipping to FL
2nd Week of September 2295 1.6:1 Shipping to FL is very high cost early Sept
3rd Week of September 3601 1.4:1 Higher than normal throughout September
4th Week of September 4005 1.4:1 The high ratio to FL continues
1st Week of October 2139 1.8:1 Pricing remains high due to the imbalance
2nd Week of October 3254 1.5:1 Car shipping cost to FL is still very high
3rd Week of October 2700 2.7:1 Ratios are way out of whack to Florida
4th Week of October 2568 2.9:1 Car shipping costs to Florida skyrocket
1st Week of November 2622 2.5:1 Pricing remains high due to the imbalance
2nd Week of November 2008 2.1:1 Early November is a bad time to ship to FL
3rd Week of November 1518 1.4:1 mid-November starts to calm down
4th Week of November 2243 1.3:1 Vehicle shipping interrupted by Turkey Day
End of November / Begin December 2422 1.7:1 Thanksgiving causes car shipment backlogs to Florida for a week or more

The Autumn Season is perhaps the best time of year to ship a car to Miami, or anywhere else for that matter. 

Bottom Line: When To Ship A Car To Miami

When is the best time to ship a car to Miami? Probably the Spring,  Summer, and Autumn Seasons. Car shipping quotes tend to be lower and service faster. The Winter Season is far more costly.

As far as car shipping to Miami goes, some seasons are much easier than others. The Winter season is by far the toughest, especially around the auto transport snowbird migration to Miami in late December and January, as shipping costs soar. 

The Spring season is a good time to ship a car to Miami, especially in May when snowbird backhaul prices plummet to Miami. The Summer season is relatively fine. The Autumn season is ideal weather, and car transport quotes tend to be lower than average. 

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator To Miami

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping quote estimates to Miami, FL.

The Standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote. Use the Standard rate if you can be patient. 

The Expedited rate, or tier as we call them, is the most recommended and best auto transport quote. We have countless satisfied Expedited rate customers because the vehicle shipping process tends to go quicker. 

The Rush rate is our highest level of car transport quotes and service, and many customers are glad they went with that method too. If in a hurry, go Rush rate.

Car Transport Cost: FAQ

  • Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

    About 97% of all vehicle shipments are shipped on an Open Trailer. It’s proven to be a very safe method with statistically very few problems. You may notice new cars being delivered to dealerships in an open trailer, and that’s because it’s safe. If you have a collector car or really expensive automobile, say around $75,000 or more, then we recommend shipping it in an Enclosed Trailer. Expect to pay about 33-50% more for an Enclosed transport. Our auto shipping costs calculator automatically adds the extra enclosed car transport estimate to your quote, so you can experiment with the quotes if you like.

  • How Long Will It Take To Pick Up My Vehicle?

    Over 90% of our orders ship inside of one week. That could be anywhere from 1 to 7 days. Most of the U.S. population lives in a major metropolitan area and is shipping to another well populated area, and that makes a big difference. Cars usually ship in a very regular manner, almost half within just a few days.

    If either your origination or destination locations are away from population centers, in other words, in a remote area, then you might consider meeting a driver in a nearby big city or town to increase your chances of shipping timely. Or adding money to the carrier fee may entice a carrier. Remember, anyone you choose can serve as your point of contact, which takes the stress out of shipping your vehicle.

  • How Do I Prepare My Vehicle For Shipment?

    Clean out your vehicle of all loose items as much as possible. Leave nothing of value in the vehicle. It’s very rare that any items are stolen during transport, but we recommend extra caution to prevent loss.

    Keep extra items as previously discussed to a minimum and place in the trunk or out of sight. Have only about a quarter tank of gasoline. Give the auto transport carrier a set of keys and advise them of any special instructions for your vehicle, like difficulty starting, steering, braking, etc.

    Driver Consideration: Being a truck driver can be a thankless job. They work long hours and are away from their families for weeks at a time. Please be friendly and considerate to our drivers, and they will treat you in the same manner.

  • How Are Car Shipping Quotes Calculated?

    The first factor used to calculate car shipping cost is the transport distance. Next are the length, height and weight of the vehicle, followed by running condition and type of trailer (Open or Enclosed). Finally, seasonal fluctuations may impact the overall cost.

  • Non-Running Vehicles Cost More

    Maneuvering non-operational vehicles on and off a car transport trailer is a big challenge. Car shipping companies much prefer operational (running) vehicles because it gives them an easier option to reposition their entire load. Non-running vehicles take considerably more time to get on and off the trailer. So the car shipping quote must reflect the higher cost. Many auto transporters don’t have a winch and cannot accommodate non-running vehicles. That is one reason it takes longer on average to ship non-operational vehicles. Fewer do it. If at all possible, fixing your vehicle before trying to ship it will save on the non-running car transport cost, and make the process go faster.

  • How Long Does It Take To Deliver My Vehicle?

    Delivering is final step in the process, and also the simplest part. Once your vehicle has been assigned and picked up, not too much can go wrong. Once the vehicle is picked up, you can estimate that it will take roughly 1 day of transit time for every 500 miles distance. Delivery Time Estimate Guide 100-500 miles takes 1 or 2 days 500-1000 miles takes 2 or 3 days 1000-1500 miles takes 3 or 4 days 1500-2000 miles takes 4 or 5 days 2000-2500 miles takes 5 or 6 days 2500-3000 miles takes 6 or 7 days Depending on the distance, weather conditions and population centers it could be a few days or weeks until a vehicle reaches its destination. The carriers usually estimate about 10 days on coast to coast trips, but they frequently arrive earlier.

  • Can I Put Stuff In My Car When I Ship It?

    Yes and no. The strict interpretation is no, you can’t ship items inside your vehicle. The reality is that almost all carriers look the other way on items that weigh less than 100 pounds, roughly the equivalent of 2 suitcases. We recommend placing any additional items in the trunk and out of sight. The U.S. Transportation Law states that a carrier can be fined $10,000 for hauling household items in the vehicle, but it’s rarely enforced. However, the drivers do estimate the weight of each vehicle that they carry and don’t want problems at weight scales. So they must keep the personal items to a minimum. Some drivers will accept a tip ($50-$250) for hauling extra stuff, but some won’t. Rule of thumb, don’t take advantage.

Related Articles

  • Open vs Enclosed Car Transport Service

    Read more

Continue reading

Why You Should Not Book Car Shipping Services Too Far In Advance

Why You Should Not Book Car Shipping Services Too Far In Advance

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Car Shipping Advice, Car Shipping Cost Calculator, Car Shipping Quotes Calculator, Car Shipping Service, Car Shipping Service, Car Show Vehicle Transport, Car Transport Calculator, Car Transport Cost per Mile, Car Transport Estimates, Vehicle Shipping, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

Why You Should Not Book Car Shipping Services Too Far In Advance

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Why You Should Not Book Car Shipping Services Too Far In Advance

Why You Should Not Book Car Shipping Services Too Far In Advance

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Related Topic Resources

One of the most important questions we get from customers is when should they book their car shipment. Everybody’s situation is just a little bit different, but the short answer is not to do it too soon. Because there is absolutely no advantage to booking early. Here is why you should not book car shipping services too far in advance.

Key Takeaways:

  • Car transport carriers rarely commit to picking up orders more than three days in advance. So there is no reason to book early, especially many weeks early.
  • Knowing that carriers don’t commit early, most auto transport brokers will not even look for a carrier until about three days before the first date available. Doing so earlier than that is risky for the customer.

The prudent thing for any car shipping customer is to have the most current market pricing. Too low and your car won’t go. Too high and you wasted your money. Current pricing solves that problem. So don’t book car shipping services too far in advance.

In This Blog Article:

Why Do Most Auto Transport Broker Sites Recommend Early Booking?

So why do most auto transport broker websites recommend booking an order far in advance of the ship date? We think there are two main reasons: 

First, like most businesses, they would prefer to book your order before you find someone else.

And secondly, it may have something to do with AI, artificial intelligence. For some reason, AI writing programs like Chat GPT and others, have a knee-jerk answer as to when is the best time to book car shipping. AI gives the same answer that they would if you were booking a seat on an airline flight. Which is early, of course. But it is the wrong answer for an auto transport customer. 

The big difference between an airline flight seat and a car transport carrier spot is that you’re reserving a seat on the former, but not a spot on the latter. It is easy for a car shipping customer to make the wrong assumption that they are all set, have reserved a spot on a vehicle transport carrier, have locked in the price, and needn’t worry anymore. So that is why we are writing this blog, to correct that wrong assumption, and steer people in the right direction. 

Folks, you don’t have a reserved spot on a car transport carrier until you’ve received a car shipping assignment email with the name of the carrier and his phone number.

Auto Transport Carriers Do Not Commit Early

Here’s the thing folks, most auto transport carriers are not sure what they’re doing later this week. They might have a rough idea, but they know that circumstances can change quickly and their schedule upended entirely. 

Now imagine that they have any idea whether they’ll be in Chicago in three weeks or San Francisco. Most of them have no idea. And certainly cannot predict that they will be able to pick up your vehicle on any particular date three weeks in advance. Or two weeks. Or even one week. 

Because of that uncertainty in their schedule, almost all carriers are loath to commit to an order weeks in advance. Dear readers, most auto transport carriers are reluctant to commit four or five days in advance. They know that they can easily be off by a day or two, and maybe more. 

If a car transport carrier won’t commit early, why would a customer?

When Do Car Shipping Brokers Look For A Carrier?

Once burned, twice shy, as the saying goes. For most auto transport brokers, it’s getting burned more often than that before getting wise. Most car shipping brokers who have made an order available a week or more early, have had carriers cancel on them just as the shipping date arrives. The reason could be quite honest, that the Carrier truck broke down, or their schedule changed.

But more likely, the car transport carrier had so much time to beat the carrier fee on that particular broker order and was able to replace it with something that paid better. They don’t say that of course. But the thought comes quickly to mind. The vehicle shipping carrier simply found a better payday and came up with some lame excuse not to come through on their commitment.

So every broker lives and learns not to act too quickly. We have noticed at Direct Express Auto Transport, that most carriers will come through on their commitment to pick up a vehicle order within three days of the available date to ship. We have learned the hard way, not to count on carriers more than three days in advance.

The good thing about car transport carriers is that they generally pick up a vehicle within one or two days of it being assigned to them. Sometimes a carrier will pick it up the same day it’s assigned. Rarely do they say that they want to pick it up in three days. We rarely hear a carrier say that they’ll pick up a vehicle in four days, for the very reasons we articulated above.

So looking for a carrier to ship a vehicle three days in advance, is kind of the sweet spot when it comes to searching for an auto transport carrier to commit to a customer order.

Booking Vehicle Shipping Too Early May Backfire

We have noticed that many snowbirds like to be organized and book their car shipments weeks in advance. It makes sense in many ways, to get your ducks in a row, cross that off your to-do list, and feel that they have secured a spot on a car transport carrier. 

They might book in October or November, for a spot around Christmas time heading to Florida like tens of thousands of other snowbirds. They are surprised when what they thought was a sure thing, turned out to be nothing of the sort. 

There is no better time to ship a car than in October or early November. Pricing tends to be low. By the time Christmas comes around, with a huge influx of customer orders, and people trying to get to Florida and elsewhere warm for the winter, the car shipping rates tend to skyrocket to the highest levels of the year. So within just a few weeks, the market goes from the lowest pricing to the highest.

If You Are Priced Too Low – Your Car Might Not Ship

The only way any auto transport broker could even begin to guarantee a price is if it is way way too high. Because you cannot guarantee what you cannot control. And as auto transport prices skyrocket, every auto transport broker is along for the ride.

So an order that was booked too far in advance, and priced at that time properly, but many weeks later is too low for the current market, most car transport brokers will likely go back to the customer and say things have changed. Because they have. And then the customer will be informed of the much higher price. Which is a conversation that never goes well.

So in that instance, there was absolutely no advantage to the customer by booking his car shipping order so early. It gives the customer a false sense of security and leaves him scrambling at the last minute, at considerable expense.

What happened to that early booking customer, was that many others who booked after him in the interim at the higher rate, will certainly ship first. It is not first come first served when it comes to the auto transport industry. And that comes as a rude awakening to many nice people caught unaware.

At Direct Express Auto Transport, we try to warn our customers about that very thing. And we do it here in this blog. Frankly, we haven’t seen any competitor write this way and give such clear and good advice about not booking early.

Booking Too Far In Advance Might Lock In too High A Rate

Oh but wait, most auto transport brokers will honor an early car shipping order booked many weeks in advance if the price is too high.

How might that happen? Let’s continue with the snowbird example. Imagine a customer who booked their order during the busiest season, the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, but didn’t want to ship until February. The pricing when he booked was very high.

By February, however, it rivals October in its low pricing. Unfortunately, the customer has locked into the higher price and if he only waited until February to book, he would’ve enjoyed a nice savings. Ouch.

So you see once again, it was not in the customer’s best interest to have booked his order many weeks in advance.

The Optimal Advance Period To Book A Vehicle Shipment

The best time to book your car shipment is anywhere between three and 10 days before you make your vehicle available to ship.

A smart and savvy broker, such as Direct Express auto transport, won’t start looking for a carrier for many reasons, before three days from the first available ship date. Generally speaking, pricing won’t fluctuate very much one week before that, which would be 10 days before the first available day to ship.

You can probably get away with booking your car shipment two weeks in advance, but it gets more and more dicey the farther out you go. There is no good reason for booking an order more than two weeks in advance. None.

The Bottom Line On Advance Booking of Car Shipping

The overwhelming majority of carriers will not commit to picking up a car shipment more than three days in advance of the vehicle availability. So why book earlier than that? It is almost always best to have current auto transport market pricing. If it’s high, then there’s no way around it you gotta pay. Because others will ship and you won’t. However, if the price is low, you should enjoy that.

Car Transport Cost: FAQ

  • Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

    About 97% of all vehicle shipments are shipped on an Open Trailer. It’s proven to be a very safe method with statistically very few problems. You may notice new cars being delivered to dealerships in an open trailer, and that’s because it’s safe. If you have a collector car or really expensive automobile, say around $75,000 or more, then we recommend shipping it in an Enclosed Trailer. Expect to pay about 33-50% more for an Enclosed transport. Our auto shipping costs calculator automatically adds the extra enclosed car transport estimate to your quote, so you can experiment with the quotes if you like.

  • How Long Will It Take To Pick Up My Vehicle?

    Over 90% of our orders ship inside of one week. That could be anywhere from 1 to 7 days. Most of the U.S. population lives in a major metropolitan area and is shipping to another well populated area, and that makes a big difference. Cars usually ship in a very regular manner, almost half within just a few days.

    If either your origination or destination locations are away from population centers, in other words, in a remote area, then you might consider meeting a driver in a nearby big city or town to increase your chances of shipping timely. Or adding money to the carrier fee may entice a carrier. Remember, anyone you choose can serve as your point of contact, which takes the stress out of shipping your vehicle.

  • How Do I Prepare My Vehicle For Shipment?

    Clean out your vehicle of all loose items as much as possible. Leave nothing of value in the vehicle. It’s very rare that any items are stolen during transport, but we recommend extra caution to prevent loss.

    Keep extra items as previously discussed to a minimum and place in the trunk or out of sight. Have only about a quarter tank of gasoline. Give the auto transport carrier a set of keys and advise them of any special instructions for your vehicle, like difficulty starting, steering, braking, etc.

    Driver Consideration: Being a truck driver can be a thankless job. They work long hours and are away from their families for weeks at a time. Please be friendly and considerate to our drivers, and they will treat you in the same manner.

  • How Are Car Shipping Quotes Calculated?

    The first factor used to calculate car shipping cost is the transport distance. Next are the length, height and weight of the vehicle, followed by running condition and type of trailer (Open or Enclosed). Finally, seasonal fluctuations may impact the overall cost.

  • Non-Running Vehicles Cost More

    Maneuvering non-operational vehicles on and off a car transport trailer is a big challenge. Car shipping companies much prefer operational (running) vehicles because it gives them an easier option to reposition their entire load. Non-running vehicles take considerably more time to get on and off the trailer. So the car shipping quote must reflect the higher cost. Many auto transporters don’t have a winch and cannot accommodate non-running vehicles. That is one reason it takes longer on average to ship non-operational vehicles. Fewer do it. If at all possible, fixing your vehicle before trying to ship it will save on the non-running car transport cost, and make the process go faster.

  • How Long Does It Take To Deliver My Vehicle?

    Delivering is final step in the process, and also the simplest part. Once your vehicle has been assigned and picked up, not too much can go wrong. Once the vehicle is picked up, you can estimate that it will take roughly 1 day of transit time for every 500 miles distance. Delivery Time Estimate Guide 100-500 miles takes 1 or 2 days 500-1000 miles takes 2 or 3 days 1000-1500 miles takes 3 or 4 days 1500-2000 miles takes 4 or 5 days 2000-2500 miles takes 5 or 6 days 2500-3000 miles takes 6 or 7 days Depending on the distance, weather conditions and population centers it could be a few days or weeks until a vehicle reaches its destination. The carriers usually estimate about 10 days on coast to coast trips, but they frequently arrive earlier.

  • Can I Put Stuff In My Car When I Ship It?

    Yes and no. The strict interpretation is no, you can’t ship items inside your vehicle. The reality is that almost all carriers look the other way on items that weigh less than 100 pounds, roughly the equivalent of 2 suitcases. We recommend placing any additional items in the trunk and out of sight. The U.S. Transportation Law states that a carrier can be fined $10,000 for hauling household items in the vehicle, but it’s rarely enforced. However, the drivers do estimate the weight of each vehicle that they carry and don’t want problems at weight scales. So they must keep the personal items to a minimum. Some drivers will accept a tip ($50-$250) for hauling extra stuff, but some won’t. Rule of thumb, don’t take advantage.

Related Articles

  • Open vs Enclosed Car Transport Service

    Read more

Continue reading

How To Use The Best Car Transport Quote Calculator

How To Use The Best Car Transport Quote Calculator

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Transport Reviews, Car Shipping Cost Calculator, Car Shipping Service, Car Shipping Service, Car Show Vehicle Transport, Car Transport Calculator, Car Transport Cost per Mile, Car Transport Estimates, Eco-Friendly Auto Transport, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

How To Use The Best Car Transport Quote Calculator

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

How To Use The Best Car Transport Quote Calculator

How To Use The Best Car Transport Quote Calculator

Get Your Car Shipping Quote!

Related Topic Resources

Shipping your car may mean moving it thousands of miles across the country, or simply transporting it a shorter distance in-state or to a neighboring state. Knowing what it will cost can be made easier by using the car shipping calculator that Direct Express Auto Transport first originated in 2004. In this forum, or blog article, we will inform you on how best to apply our unique and best in class car transport quote calculator to your situation.

Key Takeaways: 

  • Avoid online car shipping calculators that require personal information. Don’t let your mobile phone light up or your email inbox fill up. Use a good car transport rate calculator that offers quotes with no personal information.
  • Understand what goes into the pricing of your vehicle shipment. A sedan will be cheaper than a pickup truck, for example.
  • Decide ahead of time if your vehicle should be protected from the elements and go Enclosed. Or if it is no big deal if it gets dirty and can go Open-Air Transport like the overwhelming majority of cars. 
  • Do not order your vehicle shipment too early. A couple weeks in advance is ideal.

In This Blog Article:

How Much Does Car Shipping Cost?

According to our company records, it can cost as little as $300 for small cars going a short distance, to as much as $3,000 for a big pickup going across the country. It all depends. 

The Main Factors That Affect Car Shipping Costs

Because we invented the car transport quote calculator, nobody knows better what goes into calculating instant quotes. Other car shipping companies use a common third rate calculator software that indeed produces a price. But how reliable is another question. And maddeningly, the other competitors often won’t reveal that car shipping cost without you first giving up personal information such as  your email address, phone number, and name.

We don’t do that. Ever. Ours is truly a no personal information instant car transport quote calculator.

We factor certain metrics, including distance, size of vehicle, seasonal fluctuations, operational status, running condition, type of trailer and much more.

Shipping Distance

All car transport companies charge by the mile. You’ll receive a lower rate per mile for vehicle shipments at longer distances, though the overall cost will be higher.

Size of Vehicle

Larger vehicles like pickup trucks, vans, large SUVs and RVs are more expensive to ship than sedans and smaller SUVs. The size of your vehicle is a big factor in the quote engine.

Origination & Destination Locations

Big cities are easier and therefore cheaper than rural areas. It is an important factor.

Type of Trailer – Open or Enclosed

Enclosed transport offers your vehicle more protection during the shipment but at a higher price point than open transport. An enclosed car carrier is often a good choice for shipping luxury and classic cars. However, about 97% of all car shipments go Open-Air Transport because it is cheaper and still safe. The vehicle may arrive a little dirty from the road, but otherwise in the same condition. Just take it to the car wash.

Seasonality

The auto transport industry typically sees higher demand for truck space during the summer, and again briefly in January, which leads to higher prices. Why? Because car shipping is a seasonal business, with higher rates in the summer months (when many families relocate) and in January (when snowbirds fly south for the winter). There is a spike in car shipping demand that gets loaded into the calculator.

Vehicle Condition

Inoperable vehicles are more expensive to ship since they require more resources to transport than those that are in working order. A running car is much easier to load and unload. The carrier driver often needs to reposition his group of vehicles, so if a vehicle is non-running, that’s an issue that needs compensating. Usually $150 to $200 extra for non-operational vehicles.

When Best To Get Car Shipping Estimates

It is not first come … first serve, in the auto transport industry. No, not at all. It is who is paying the most for your size vehicle that gets a spot on the trailer first. Being too early to book might cause problems that you had not anticipated.

Do Not Book Too Far in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes we see are customers who think they are reserving a spot on a trailer, as if they were a seat on a plane, and think ordering their shipment a month in advance is wise. It is not. Nothing actually begins to happen with 99% of vehicle shipments until the week your order is made available. Booking a week or two in advance is ideal.

Get Current Rates For Car Shipping

Some car shipping companies offer guaranteed pricing, but usually at inflated rates so that if the market changes, they won’t get hurt. Most brokers do not guarantee prices because they can’t guarantee what they can’t control.

For instance, car transport pricing spikes dramatically shipping to Florida in December and January. It may even double on some routes. If you book that Florida shipment in October for a December ship date, the price will be likely too low and carriers will be filling their trailers with other higher paying freight, often booked just days in advance. You may sit wondering why your car hasn’t moved? The reason is that you booked too early.

An Auto Transport Broker With Great Google Reviews

An ethical car transport broker will give you the above advice. You can have a pleasant car shipping experience if somebody honest steers you in the right direction. The great thing about Google reviews is that you publicly know who the reviewer is, and that it probably isn’t a competitor taking cheap shots. The BBB is much the same way. Find a broker with outstanding reviews. Like Direct Express Auto Transport.

Car Transport Quote Calculator: The Bottom Line

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant quote calculator in 2004. It was nearly four years before a knockoff appeared. We have refined and perfected our quote engine and say confidently that it is by far the best in the car shipping industry.

Car Transport Cost: FAQ

  • Should You Ship Your Car Open or Enclosed?

    About 97% of all vehicle shipments are shipped on an Open Trailer. It’s proven to be a very safe method with statistically very few problems. You may notice new cars being delivered to dealerships in an open trailer, and that’s because it’s safe. If you have a collector car or really expensive automobile, say around $75,000 or more, then we recommend shipping it in an Enclosed Trailer. Expect to pay about 33-50% more for an Enclosed transport. Our auto shipping costs calculator automatically adds the extra enclosed car transport estimate to your quote, so you can experiment with the quotes if you like.

  • How Long Will It Take To Pick Up My Vehicle?

    Over 90% of our orders ship inside of one week. That could be anywhere from 1 to 7 days. Most of the U.S. population lives in a major metropolitan area and is shipping to another well populated area, and that makes a big difference. Cars usually ship in a very regular manner, almost half within just a few days.

    If either your origination or destination locations are away from population centers, in other words, in a remote area, then you might consider meeting a driver in a nearby big city or town to increase your chances of shipping timely. Or adding money to the carrier fee may entice a carrier. Remember, anyone you choose can serve as your point of contact, which takes the stress out of shipping your vehicle.

  • How Do I Prepare My Vehicle For Shipment?

    Clean out your vehicle of all loose items as much as possible. Leave nothing of value in the vehicle. It’s very rare that any items are stolen during transport, but we recommend extra caution to prevent loss.

    Keep extra items as previously discussed to a minimum and place in the trunk or out of sight. Have only about a quarter tank of gasoline. Give the auto transport carrier a set of keys and advise them of any special instructions for your vehicle, like difficulty starting, steering, braking, etc.

    Driver Consideration: Being a truck driver can be a thankless job. They work long hours and are away from their families for weeks at a time. Please be friendly and considerate to our drivers, and they will treat you in the same manner.

  • How Are Car Shipping Quotes Calculated?

    The first factor used to calculate car shipping cost is the transport distance. Next are the length, height and weight of the vehicle, followed by running condition and type of trailer (Open or Enclosed). Finally, seasonal fluctuations may impact the overall cost.

  • Non-Running Vehicles Cost More

    Maneuvering non-operational vehicles on and off a car transport trailer is a big challenge. Car shipping companies much prefer operational (running) vehicles because it gives them an easier option to reposition their entire load. Non-running vehicles take considerably more time to get on and off the trailer. So the car shipping quote must reflect the higher cost. Many auto transporters don’t have a winch and cannot accommodate non-running vehicles. That is one reason it takes longer on average to ship non-operational vehicles. Fewer do it. If at all possible, fixing your vehicle before trying to ship it will save on the non-running car transport cost, and make the process go faster.

  • How Long Does It Take To Deliver My Vehicle?

    Delivering is final step in the process, and also the simplest part. Once your vehicle has been assigned and picked up, not too much can go wrong. Once the vehicle is picked up, you can estimate that it will take roughly 1 day of transit time for every 500 miles distance. Delivery Time Estimate Guide 100-500 miles takes 1 or 2 days 500-1000 miles takes 2 or 3 days 1000-1500 miles takes 3 or 4 days 1500-2000 miles takes 4 or 5 days 2000-2500 miles takes 5 or 6 days 2500-3000 miles takes 6 or 7 days Depending on the distance, weather conditions and population centers it could be a few days or weeks until a vehicle reaches its destination. The carriers usually estimate about 10 days on coast to coast trips, but they frequently arrive earlier.

  • Can I Put Stuff In My Car When I Ship It?

    Yes and no. The strict interpretation is no, you can’t ship items inside your vehicle. The reality is that almost all carriers look the other way on items that weigh less than 100 pounds, roughly the equivalent of 2 suitcases. We recommend placing any additional items in the trunk and out of sight. The U.S. Transportation Law states that a carrier can be fined $10,000 for hauling household items in the vehicle, but it’s rarely enforced. However, the drivers do estimate the weight of each vehicle that they carry and don’t want problems at weight scales. So they must keep the personal items to a minimum. Some drivers will accept a tip ($50-$250) for hauling extra stuff, but some won’t. Rule of thumb, don’t take advantage.

Related Articles

  • Open vs Enclosed Car Transport Service

    Read more

Continue reading

photo of phoenix Arizona skyline at dusk for car shipping

Vehicle Shipping From Phoenix to San Francisco: A Desert Trek

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Shipping, auto transport by city, College Student Car Shipping Tips, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

If you plan to ship your car from Phoenix to San Francisco, there is more to it than meets the eye. Direct Express Auto Transport has been shipping cars for over 20 years across the country with extraordinary success. We know what we are doing and will share our considerable experience of vehicle shipping from Phoenix to San Francisco in this blog article. 

Our auto transport services are an excellent solution for safely, quickly, and conveniently shipping your car from Phoenix to San Francisco. You want to get the best deal possible without compromising quality and reliability. We get that. That is where we come in. In this article, we will provide expert advice on what it takes to transport your vehicle. 

We examine the vehicle shipping cost from Phoenix to San Francisco, customer service, preparing your car, insurance coverage, and delivery time. Whether you’re moving for a job, are a college student, bought a car online, are a snowbird auto shipper, or have other reasons to transport your vehicle, you’ve come to the right place. So, let’s hit the road and figure out how best to get your car shipped from Phoenix to San Francisco as soon as possible. 

Why choose a vehicle shipping service from Phoenix to San Francisco?

Driving your car from Phoenix to San Francisco is a pain in the you-know-what. You have better things to do unless you are looking for something to do. Sometimes a grandpa like mine would use any excuse to get out of the house and go hunting or fishing. But a trip from Phoenix to San Francisco just to get out? No, we can do better. 

What is more, driving your car from Phoenix to San Francisco can put unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle, increasing the risk of a breakdown and a trip to the mechanic. That is why most people choose to ship a car instead of driving it. You save on gas, hotel, and food expenses that would have hit your credit card on the road. Ouch!

What Affects The Direct Express Auto Transport Cost Calculator from Phoenix to San Francisco

Several factors can affect the cost of auto transport from Phoenix to San Francisco. 

Distance From Phoenix to San Francisco

Distance is the primary factor for our car shipping cost calculator. While the cost per mile inches downward as the distance increases, the overall cost goes up never-the-less the farther we need to transport your vehicle. That makes plenty of sense. The vehicle shipping route from Phoenix to San Francisco is roughly 750 miles, which puts it in the short-run category. 

The Size of the Vehicle Being Shipped

The next most important factor is the vehicle size you are shipping. An auto transport carrier is usually a 3-car, 5-car, 7-car, or 10-car hauler. We mean by “cars” sedans, like a Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, or Ford Mustang. Those are cars, folks. If a vehicle is significantly longer, higher, or heavier, it may mean that the car transport carrier can fit or haul fewer cars. Whichever vehicle causes any of those things intrudes on the total number to be carried, and therefore should compensate the auto shipping company. So, what makes a vehicle considered longer, higher, or heavier?

Length of the Vehicle Matters

The average sedan is 180 to 198 inches long and fits perfectly on most auto transport carriers. Every auto shipping load is a mathematical puzzle; once a vehicle is 200 inches or longer, it becomes more challenging to ship. The transporter might lose a spot by taking that longer vehicle at a certain point, which can vary with each amalgamated load. We often see that with vehicles over 215 inches. Think Lincoln Continental or Jeep Gladiator Rubicon. So vehicles over 200 inches long tend to incrementally cost more to transport, anywhere from 10% to as much as nearly double, depending on how much longer it is. 

Height of the Vehicle

People forget about height, but it is vital to an auto transport company. Think of the highway bridges that all trucks must get under. Those overpass bridges are about 13.6 feet high. Once a vehicle is about 75 inches tall, it becomes a concern for the vehicle shipping service. When a vehicle is 80 inches or higher, it is a problem because most auto transporters lose a spot on their rig. That vehicle, or its owner, should pay more for the intrusion. Think Chevy Suburban. 

Weight of the Vehicle

Every truck driver must abide by the overall weight restrictions to pass inspection on the highway scales, including auto transport companies. In the simplest terms, in round numbers, here are the average weights per type of vehicle:

Sedans = 4,000 lbs average

SUVs = 5,000 lbs average

Pickup Trucks = 6,000 lbs average

Vans = 4,500 lbs average

There are wide variations for each. As you can see, keeping in mind the weight scales, an auto transport carrier who aims to keep the overall weight of his combined vehicles at less than 45,000 lbs would take out his calculator and figure something like this:

Auto Transport Amalgamated Load Examples:

11 Sedans = 44,000 lbs

10 Vans = 45,000 lbs

9 SUVs = 45,000 lbs

7 Pickup Trucks = 42,000 lbs

10 Sedans + 1 SUV = 45,000 lbs

9 Sedans + 1 Pickup Truck = 42,000 lbs

8 Sedans + 1 SUV + 1 Pickup Truck = 43,000 lbs

7 Sedans + 1 SUV + 1 Pickup Truck + 1 Van = 43,500 lbs

6 Sedans + 3 SUVs + 1 Pickup Truck = 45,000 lbs

5 Sedans + 2 SUVs + 2 Pickup Trucks = 42,000 lbs

4 Sedans + 3 SUVs + 2 Pickup Trucks = 43,000 lbs

3 Pickup Trucks + 4 Sedans + 2 SUVs = 44,000 lbs

4 Sedans + 2 SUVs + 2 Pickup Trucks + 1 Van = 42,500 lbs

3 Sedans + 3 SUVs + 2 Pickup Trucks + 1 Van = 43,500 lbs

3 Sedans + 3 SUVs + 3 Pickup Trucks = 45,000 lbs

As you can see, there are many combinations for the auto transport dispatch team to consider. The truck driver cannot haul as many SUVs, pickup trucks, or vans as he can sedans. So those heavier vehicles must be priced differently, as in more. 

That also explains why carriers are concerned about customers packing their vehicles with extra personal items. They are rightfully worried about overall weight and getting through the highway scales without penalty or problems. 

Auto Transport Seasonal Fluctuations

The time of year and the direction you are shipping your car affects the price. It has everything to do with Supply & Demand. In other words, Economics 101. Using Florida as an example, in late December or early January of any year, there may be ten times as many cars shipping to Florida than are leaving. That tends to drive up the price to Florida, usually about 33%, and drive down the cost of car shipping from Florida, again about 33%. 

That scenario reverses every April and May as the so-called snowbirds return home. 

Auto Transport Service from Phoenix to San Francisco

The distance between Phoenix to San Francisco is approximately 750 miles, a very long and arduous drive. I don’t know about you, but I get stiff sitting in one spot for that long. Driving from Phoenix to San Francisco would take about 15 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. But an auto transport truck driver is required by federal regulations to take many rest breaks. Count me out. It is time-consuming, stressful, expensive, and more. 

It makes more sense to safely and securely ship a car from Phoenix to San Francisco.

What is the best route from Phoenix, AZ to San Francisco for vehicle shipping services?

In order to ensure the safest and most efficient method for shipping a car between Phoenix and San Francisco, it’s important to look at various factors such as distance, travel time, and road conditions. A feasible choice is following the I-10 West to the I-5 North. This route is approximately 750 miles long and normally takes about 12 hours of driving time making it the best option for auto transport services.
Alternatively, one could take US-93 North followed by I-80 West; this way is slightly longer at around 800 miles yet provides a more scenic drive with stops along Hoover Dam, Lake Tahoe, or Sierra Nevada mountain range. Ultimately, it all comes down to weighing efficiency against scenery in decisions like these.

Planning a successful journey for your car requires taking into account a variety of external factors. Road conditions, traffic levels, and unexpected closures can all have an impact on travel times and routes. As such, keeping up to date with the current weather or road situation is highly recommended. Furthermore, enlisting the services of an experienced vehicle shipping service that is familiar with these routes should ensure a much smoother operation overall.

The Most Ideal Auto Transport Along The Way

When traveling from Phoenix to San Francisco in a vehicle, there are several important cities along the way that provide an excellent chance for customers to receive pick-up and drop-off services, likewise allowing carriers to make the most of their time by utilizing multi-vehicle transports. Notable metropolitan hubs found on either the I-10 West or I-5 North links consist of:

As the second and largest cities in California, respectively, both Bakersfield and L.A are renowned as major auto transport services hubs. The former is located in the heart of Central Valley and sits along the I-5 corridor between Phoenix and SF; this central location makes it an ideal stopover point for carriers.

Meanwhile, L.A’s expansive freeway system plus its proximity to the Port of LA make it a popular destination for domestic and international car shipments alike. Additionally, Fresno situated along I-5 North also serves as an important car shipping hub – given its strong agricultural industry and ever increasing population – with demand rising steadily over time.

The Northern Route

As you travel along the US-93 North and I-80 West route, there are several major cities that require the attention of auto transport services. The most popular destination is Las Vegas, NV – better known as the Entertainment Capital of the World. With its immense popularity comes a great need for carriers to transport vehicles to and from this location along their way between Phoenix and San Francisco. Secondly, Reno, NV stands out as an important hub due to being Northern Nevada’s largest city with convenient access to Lake Tahoe and the California border; it’s become a common request among drivers for both domestic and international car shipments.

Top Things To Do In Phoenix and the San Francisco Bay Area

Whether you are departing from Phoenix or making your way to San Francisco, make sure to take a little extra time to discover the wonders these two stunning cities can offer. From cultural attractions and exciting activities, there is something for everyone in these vibrant destinations.

Phoenix Area:

1. Nature lovers will be wowed by the exquisite Desert Botanical Garden! This special garden features an array of exotic plants and wildlife native to the Sonoran Desert, giving explorers a chance to appreciate nature in all its glory.

2. A remarkable way to experience the city is by taking a hike up Camelback Mountain. A favorite of many, this mountain offers an exciting and energetic climb that is sure to leave you feeling energized. As you ascend, the breathtaking sights will keep your heart racing all the way until the top.

3. For an unparalleled experience of Native American art and culture, be sure to visit the world-renowned Heard Museum. With its exciting displays, performances, and events, you can take a journey through time to explore the customs of America’s Indigenous peoples. You’re sure to come away with newfound appreciation and knowledge about these ancient traditions.

4. Experience a slice of Arizona history at the State Capitol: Take a guided tour of the capitol building to learn more about the state’s political past. Step back in time and get an appreciation for all that our great state has gone through.

5. A trip to the Chase Field, the home of the Arizona Diamondbacks should be on every avid baseball fan’s list. This stadium is an amazing destination to take in a thrilling game and make lasting memories.

San Francisco Bay Area:

  • Experience Alcatraz Island – Step back in time and explore the iconic prison once home to some of the most notorious criminals, including Al Capone and Robert Stroud.
  • For those who wish to take in the sights of San Francisco, taking a stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge is an absolute must. This world-famous bridge offers visitors magnificent views of the Bay area and makes for a truly unforgettable experience.
  • Treat yourself to an incredible getaway and visit Napa Valley, which is renowned all over the world. Sample some of the finest wines while you’re there and truly have an unforgettable experience.
  • The Exploratorium is a must-visit destination for all ages. From science to art and technology, the museum showcases various interactive exhibits that are certain to spark curiosity and learning in both young ones and adults alike.
  • The city of San Francisco is home to a beautiful park that must be visited – Golden Gate Park. Home to magnificent gardens, awe-inspiring museums, and serene lakes, it provides a unique experience unlike anywhere else.

College Student Auto Transport Near Phoenix and the San Francisco Bay Area

College students in Phoenix and San Francisco Bay are blessed with plenty of educational institutions to choose from, so it’s no surprise that finding car shipping services is a popular request. Instead of a grueling road trip between these two metropolitan areas, many young adults opt for transportation services to get their vehicle from one city to another quickly and efficiently.

Families seeking a higher education have many options for their students across Arizona and the San Francisco Bay Area. The Phoenix area boasts Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, and Grand Canyon University. Alternatively, the San Francisco Bay Area is home to renowned institutions like the University of California, Berkeley, Stanford University, and San Francisco State University.

For college students in need of auto transport services, there are several companies offering discounts that can help keep the process within budget. When researching car shipping options, it is important to ask about any special rates available for students as well as the procedures for transporting a vehicle to or from a college campus.

Median Income & Housing Prices in Phoenix & San Francisco metro areas

When transitioning from Phoenix to San Francisco, it is important to keep in mind the contrast in cost of living between these two urban landscapes. The median household income for the metropolitan area of Phoenix is close to 107,000 dollars.

Comparing home prices and rental costs, a stark contrast can be seen between Phoenix and the rest of the country. Specifically, when it comes to median home price, Phoenix residents are shelling out an estimated 1.4 million on average. Renters are facing similarly hefty bills with an expected 3,600 monthly rent fee for those living in Phoenix.

When selecting a car shipping service for your relocation, one must consider the cost of living in order to maintain their budget and lifestyle. Factors such as the chosen route, distance to be traveled, type of auto being transported, and local pricing variations can all influence the overall price of delivery. Keeping these details in mind is key when planning your move.

What Are The Major Sports in Phoenix & San Francisco Bay Area?

Sports fans have a great variety of professional teams to cheer on in both the city of Phoenix and San Francisco. In Phoenix, enthusiasts can watch the Arizona Diamondbacks (MLB), Phoenix Suns (NBA), Arizona Cardinals (NFL) and Arizona Coyotes (NHL) fight it out on the field or court.

Sports enthusiasts in San Francisco Bay Area have a range of professional teams to cheer on, including Major League Baseball’s San Francisco Giants and Oakland Athletics, National Basketball Association’s Golden State Warriors, National Football League’s San Francisco 49ers, and National Hockey League’s San Jose Sharks.

Whether you’re a fan of professional or college sports, Phoenix and San Francisco have something to offer. On the collegiate level, Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, Stanford University, and the University of California Berkeley are some of the schools boasting competitive teams. With plenty of sporting activities to choose from, you can find an exciting game to watch no matter which city you choose.

Where Are The Auto Auctions near Phoenix & San Francisco?

For those who are hoping to buy or sell a car, as well as those in the business of car shipping, an advantageous option could be to attend an automobile auction. In the regions around Phoenix and San Francisco, various facilities exist that provide a broad selection of cars and services.

The greater Phoenix area is full of auto auctions – three of the most impressive being Manheim Phoenix, Copart Phoenix, and IAA Phoenix. All three of these venues provide a mixture of events that are open to both licensed dealers and to those who don’t have a dealer’s license. Thus, there are ample opportunities for all prospective buyers to participate.

The San Francisco Bay Area has several notable car auction locations, such as Manheim San Francisco Bay, Copart San Francisco, and IAA East Bay. At these sites, a mix of dealer-exclusive and public events occur regularly to suit the needs of buyers and sellers alike.

Military Bases Nearby Phoenix & Bay Area For Car Shipping

Two popular locations for military bases in America are Phoenix and San Francisco Bay. With these installations, there is a greater need for auto transport services. This is important when service members must move their vehicles during relocations or deployments. Luke Air Force Base and Marine Corps Air Station Yuma are two of Phoenix’s main military sites that require auto transport services.

Located relatively close to a number of large cities, the San Francisco Bay Area is host to two significant military installations: Travis Air Force Base and Coast Guard Island. These bases can be convenient locations for car shipping services to pick up or drop off vehicles.

For military personnel who are in need of transporting a vehicle, selecting the right car shipping service is vital. Companies that offer special discounts for those in the armed forces along with a solid record of success should be considered. Make sure to research companies to ensure they have sufficient experience working with the military and can accommodate the exclusive needs of service members.

When sending a military vehicle, there are certain measures to take into consideration. Extra regulations and procedures might apply, such as requiring special permits or inspections. To make the process hassle-free, be sure to inform your car shipping company on any specific requirements beforehand. That way, you can rest assured knowing everything is taken care of properly.

Auto Transport Company Reputation and Experience

Research the reputation and experience of the car shipping companies on your shortlist from Phoenix to San Francisco. Of course, the best car shipping company, hands down, is Direct Express Auto Transport. With over twenty years of experience and the absolute expert in car shipping cost calculations, you cannot do better than us because we originated the instant quote concept. 

You always want to look for reviews and ratings from previous customers on trusted websites like the Better Business Bureau, Google, or TrustPilot. Check if the company has complaints or legal issues and how they resolve them. There again, we shine as an auto transport service with thousands of five-star reviews across the board.  

Types of car shipping services from Phoenix to San Francisco

Car shipping services offer several shipping options to meet different needs and budgets. 

Open-Air or Enclosed Auto Transport Service

Open-Air transport

There are really two main choices every car shipping customer needs to make regarding the type of transport carrier they prefer. Each has pros and cons, and the cost is a significant consideration. 

Open transport is the most popular and affordable type of vehicle shipping service. It involves loading your car onto an open-air carrier that can transport up to 10 cars at a time. Your car will be exposed to the elements and road debris during transit, but it is generally a safe way to ship. About 97% of all vehicle shipments are open-air. Why? Because it is roughly 33% cheaper auto transport than enclosed.

You see car manufacturers delivering cars to dealerships on open-air carriers. Why? Because it is both cheap and safe. Damages are rare. Open-air transport is suitable for most types of cars, including sedans, SUVs, and trucks. Your vehicle will arrive dirty from the road, but that washes off easily. 

Enclosed transport

Enclosed transport, on the other hand, offers more protection for your car and involves transporting it in an enclosed trailer. Because fewer vehicles can fit inside an enclosed trailer, it tends to be more expensive. If you have an expensive car, consider it insurance. People with antique or classic collector cars also should strongly consider shipping enclosed. 

Low-ground clearance vehicles that are 4.5″ inches or lower should go enclosed too. Why? Because enclosed transport carriers can load those vehicles without scratching or damaging the vehicle’s undercarriage. 

Enclosed transport provides greater protection and security for your car during transit. It involves loading your car onto an enclosed carrier that can typically transport up to 6 cars at a time. Your car will be shielded from the elements and road debris, reducing the risk of damages or losses. 

Enclosed transport is ideal for luxury cars, classic cars, and high-value vehicles that require extra care and attention. If your vehicle is worth close to $100k or more, come on, protect it by going Enclosed. Think of it as added insurance. 

Door-to-Door or Terminal-to-Terminal Car Transport Service

There are two main types of delivery in the auto transport industry, and those are door-to-door and terminal-to-terminal. The overwhelming majority of customers choose door-to-door delivery.

Door-to-door delivery

Door-to-door delivery is the most convenient and hassle-free option that involves picking up your car from close to your door and delivering it to close to your destination address. The vehicle shipping company will coordinate with you to schedule the pickup and delivery times and ensure your car is safely loaded and unloaded. 

Door-to-door delivery usually means that an auto transport carrier will meet you within a couple miles of addresses. That’s very good and convenient. It is in the spirit of door-to-door car shipping. We highly recommend door-to-door auto transport service from Phoenix to San Francisco. 

Terminal-to-terminal delivery

Terminal-to-terminal delivery is a budget-friendly option that involves dropping off your car at a designated terminal and picking it up at the terminal near your new address. It is frankly a pain for most people. Terminal-to-terminal delivery is less convenient than door-to-door delivery but can save you money. However, it is out of your control once your vehicle is placed at a terminal. It can take many weeks to deliver your car. Many of our customers get frustrated with terminals. We say avoid terminals if at all possible. 

Tips for Preparing Your Vehicle for Car Shipping from Phoenix to San Francisco

Before transporting your vehicle, there are several things you can do to prepare it for transport:

1. Be sure to clean your vehicle thoroughly, both inside and out. That will help you identify any pre-existing damage and ensure your vehicle is in good condition before transport.

2. Be sure to remove any personal items from your vehicle, as most auto transport companies do not allow personal items to be transported. They are mindful of the weight. 

3. Disable any alarms or anti-theft devices and remove external accessories like bike racks or spoilers. Height is a concern to auto shippers. 

4. Take plenty of photos documenting your vehicle’s condition before handing it over to the truck driver. A picture is worth a thousand words.

5. Reduce your gas tank to about 1/4 full, or no more than half a tank. Once again, weight is the concern, and gasoline is heavy.

6. Secure loose parts and accessories, such as antennas, spoilers, and mirrors, or remove them if possible.

7. Check the tires, brakes, and battery and ensure they are in good condition.

Insurance Coverage for Auto Transport from Phoenix to San Francisco

When transporting your vehicle, ensuring it is adequately insured is essential. Most auto transport companies offer insurance coverage for your car during transport. However, the amount of coverage may vary from company to company. Maintaining your insurance on your vehicle is an excellent idea. 

Comparing Direct Express Auto Transport Quotes from Phoenix to San Francisco

When choosing an auto transport company, comparing quotes from different companies is essential. That will help you understand how much you can expect to pay for transportation and what services are included in the price. Direct Express Auto Transport uniquely offers three levels, or tiers, of pricing and service.

Standard Tier, or rate, is usually assigned to a carrier within several days from the first date available. And then typically picked up one or two days after being assigned to a carrier. It is the most basic market rate; we suggest using it if you are not in a hurry. 

Expedited Tier, or rate, is usually assigned to a carrier within a few days from the first date available. And then typically picked up one or two days after being assigned to a carrier. We highly recommend using the expedited rate as our customers report high satisfaction with it.

Rush Tier, or rate, is usually assigned to a carrier within one or two days from the first date available. And then typically picked up one or two days after being assigned to a carrier. It is ideal for last-minute orders or for people who are in a huge hurry. 

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, and reliable auto transport cost calculator available anywhere online. We are the experts in vehicle shipping cost calculations anywhere in the USA, from Phoenix to San Francisco too!

gif of how weather affects auto shipping

Rain, Snow, or Shine: How Weather Conditions Affect Your Auto Shipping Experience

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Shipping, Auto Transport Services, Seasonal Fluctuations, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

Auto shipping is the way to go when moving your car from one location to another. It’s a convenient and cost-effective method that saves you time and effort. But what happens when the weather isn’t on your side? Rain, snow, or extreme temperatures can all affect your auto shipping experience. In this article, we’ll explore how weather conditions impact auto shipping and what steps you can take to ensure a smooth and stress-free delivery. 

Understanding How Weather Conditions Affect Auto Shipping

Weather conditions can impact auto-shipping in several ways. Heavy rain or snow can cause delays in transit, while extreme temperatures can affect the safety of your vehicle. When shipping your car, knowing how different weather conditions can impact your delivery and what you can do to prepare is essential. Let’s explore each situation in more detail.

Rain’s Impact on Auto Shipping

Rain can be a significant inconvenience when it comes to auto shipping. It can cause delays in transit, and if the driver needs to stop and wait for the rain to subside, it can add to the overall delivery time. Rain can also make loading and unloading your vehicle more challenging, as wet roads and surfaces can be slippery and dangerous.

If you’re shipping your car during the rainy season, there are a few things you can do to prepare:

  1. Make sure your car is clean and free of debris. Dirt and mud can be slippery, making loading and unloading your vehicle difficult.
  2. Ensure your car’s windows and sunroof are closed tightly to prevent water from entering.
  3. Consider investing in a car cover to protect your vehicle from the elements.

A car cover can help keep your car dry and prevent water damage to the interior.

Effect of Snow on Auto Shipping

Snow can be even more challenging than rain regarding auto shipping. Snowy conditions can cause significant delays in transit, and if the driver needs to stop and wait for the snow to clear, it can add days to your delivery time. Snow can also make loading and unloading your vehicle more challenging, as icy roads and surfaces can be hazardous.

If you’re shipping your car during the winter months, there are several things you can do to prepare for snow:

  1. Ensure your vehicle has snow tires or chains for maximum traction on slippery roads.
  2. Clear any snow or ice from your car’s windows and mirrors to ensure clear visibility.
  3. Consider investing in a car cover to protect your vehicle from the snow and ice buildup.

How Extreme Weather Conditions Impact Auto Shipping

Extreme weather conditions, such as hurricanes or tornadoes, can cause significant delays in transit and even cancel your shipment. For example, if you’re shipping your car during hurricane season, it’s essential to monitor weather conditions closely and communicate with your auto shipping company. They can update your shipment and advise you on the best course of action.

Auto Shipping Options for Different Weather Conditions

Auto shipping companies offer a range of shipping options to accommodate different weather conditions. For example, some companies provide enclosed shipping for customers who want to protect their vehicles from the elements. Enclosed shipping offers a fully enclosed container that protects your car from rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. This option is more expensive than open shipping but provides added protection for your vehicle.

Ensuring the Safety of Your Vehicle During Auto Shipping

When shipping your car, your vehicle’s safety is a top priority. Weather conditions can impact the safety of your vehicle, but there are steps you can take to ensure your car arrives at its destination in good condition:

  1. Make sure your vehicle is in good working order before shipping it. That includes checking the battery, brakes, and fluids.
  2. Remove any personal items from your car that could be damaged during transit.
  3. Consider investing in additional insurance to protect your vehicle during shipping.

Preparing Your Car for Auto Shipping During Extreme Weather Conditions

If you’re shipping your car during extreme weather conditions, there are additional steps you can take to prepare your vehicle:

  1. Make sure your car’s battery is fully charged to ensure it can start in cold weather.
  2. Consider adding antifreeze to your car’s engine coolant to prevent freezing.
  3. Check your car’s tires to ensure they are correctly inflated and have enough tread to provide maximum traction on slippery roads.

Choosing the Right Auto Shipping Company for Your Needs

Choosing the right auto shipping company is essential, especially regarding weather conditions. Look for a company that offers a range of shipping options to accommodate different weather conditions. Also, ensure the company has experience transporting vehicles in your area during weather conditions. Finally, read reviews and check the company’s safety record to ensure they have a good reputation for delivering vehicles safely and on time.

Conclusion

Weather conditions can impact your auto shipping experience, but you can ensure a smooth and stress-free delivery with the right preparation and a reliable auto shipping company. Whether you’re shipping your car across the country or just a few states, follow these tips to navigate the elements and keep your vehicle safe and secure.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available anywhere online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping estimates. The standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote, but it may take longer. Use it if you are patient. The expedited car shipping rate is most recommended, and we have countless satisfied customers because the shipping process tends to go quicker. The rush rate is our highest level of car shipping service, and many customers are glad they went with that method.

photo of Auto Transport Carriers Determine the Best Route

From Coast to Coast: How Auto Transport Carriers Determine the Best Route

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Shipping, Car Safety, car shipment, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

Auto transport carriers are an essential part of the automotive industry, transporting cars from one location to another. Whether for individuals relocating or car dealerships transporting inventory, auto transport carriers play a significant role in the efficient movement of vehicles. One of their many challenges is determining the best route to take when transporting cars from coast to coast. Choosing the optimal route can be daunting, with multiple factors, such as distance, time, and road conditions. 

In this article, we’ll examine how auto transport carriers determine the best route when transporting cars from coast to coast. We’ll discuss the different factors that come into play, the technology used to aid decision-making, and the importance of route planning in ensuring successful car transport. So, buckle up and join us on this journey as we explore the fascinating world of how auto transport carriers plan their route.

Factors to Consider When Determining Car Shipping Route

When determining the best route for auto transport carriers, several factors must be considered. The distance between the starting point and the destination is one of the most critical factors. The distance will determine how long the transport will take, the fuel cost, and the wear and tear on the carrier. Carriers have to consider the distance and time when planning a route.

Another factor to consider is the type of transport to use. Carriers can choose between open and enclosed carriers. Open carriers transport cars on an open trailer, while enclosed carriers transport vehicles in an enclosed trailer. Open carriers are often cheaper than enclosed carriers, but enclosed carriers offer more protection to the transported cars. The type of transport carriers choose will depend on their budget, the value of the vehicles being transported, and the kind of transport the customer requires.

Carriers must also consider their route based on the season and weather conditions. In the winter, carriers must avoid routes prone to snow and ice. In the summer, carriers must avoid routes prone to flooding or extreme heat. They must consider the safest route for transporting the cars and the driver. Moreover, they must consider the route with gas stations, rest areas, and other amenities to make the transport easier for the driver.

Route Planning for Different Seasons and Weather Conditions

Regarding route planning for different seasons and weather conditions, auto transport carriers must be diligent. They must stay updated on weather forecasts, road conditions, and traffic updates. In the winter, carriers must avoid routes prone to snow and ice. They have to choose routes that are well-maintained and have the least amount of snow and ice. They also have to avoid routes prone to black ice, a thin layer of ice that can make the road slippery and dangerous.

In the summer, carriers must avoid routes prone to flooding or extreme heat. They have to choose routes that are well-maintained and have the least traffic. They also have to avoid routes that have construction work, which can cause delays and make the transport longer. Carriers must consider the safest route for the cars being transported and the driver. Moreover, they must consider the route with gas stations, rest areas, and other amenities to make the transport easier for the driver.

Route Planning for Cross-Country vs. Regional Transport

Auto transport carriers must consider the route they are taking based on whether the transport is cross-country or regional. Cross-country transport requires carriers to plan routes that are longer and more complex. When planning a route, they must consider the distance, time, and road conditions. They must also consider the safest route for transporting the cars and the driver. Moreover, they have to consider the route with gas stations, rest areas, and other amenities to make the transport easier for the driver.

Regional transport requires carriers to plan routes that are shorter and less complex. They have to consider the distance, time, and road conditions when planning a route. They must also consider the safest route for transporting the cars and the driver. Moreover, they have to consider the route with gas stations, rest areas, and other amenities to make the transport easier for the driver.

Route Planning for Urban vs. Rural Destinations

Auto transport carriers must consider their route based on whether the destination is urban or rural. Urban destinations require carriers to plan more complex routes. When planning a route, they must consider the distance, time, and road conditions. They must also consider the safest route for transporting the cars and the driver. Moreover, they have to consider the route with gas stations, rest areas, and other amenities to make the transport easier for the driver.

Rural destinations require carriers to plan less complex routes. When planning a route, they must consider the distance, time, and road conditions. They must also consider the safest route for transporting the cars and the driver. Moreover, they must consider the route with gas stations, rest areas, and other amenities to make the transport easier for the driver.

Choosing Between Open and Enclosed Transport

When choosing between open and enclosed transport, auto transport carriers must consider several factors. Open carriers transport cars on an open trailer, while enclosed carriers transport cars in an enclosed trailer. Open carriers are often cheaper than enclosed carriers, but enclosed carriers offer more protection to the transported cars. The type of transport that carriers choose will depend on their budget, the value of the cars being transported, and the type of transport the customer requires.

Open carriers are a popular choice for individuals who are relocating and car dealerships that are transporting inventory. They are cost-effective and can transport multiple cars at once. However, open carriers do not offer protection from elements like rain, snow, or hail. Cars transported on open carriers are exposed to the elements, which can cause damage to the exterior.

Enclosed carriers are a popular choice for individuals transporting luxury or classic cars. They offer protection from elements like rain, snow, or hail. Cars transported on enclosed carriers are also protected from road debris and other hazards. However, enclosed carriers are more expensive than open carriers and can only transport one car at a time.

Tips for Selecting a Reliable Car Shipping Company

When selecting a reliable car shipping company, several factors must be considered. The first factor to consider is the company’s reputation. Review previous customer reviews and check the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau. The second factor to consider is the company’s experience. Look for a company that has been in business for several years and has a proven track record of success.

The third factor to consider is the company’s insurance. Ensure the company has insurance covering any damage to the car during transport. The fourth factor to consider is the company’s price. Look for a company that offers competitive pricing and does not have any hidden fees. The fifth factor to consider is the company’s customer service. Look for a company with a responsive customer service team that can answer any questions or concerns.

Cost Considerations in Determining Optimal Route

Cost is a significant factor to consider when determining the optimal route for auto transport carriers. Carriers must consider the cost of fuel, maintenance, and wear and tear on the carrier. They also have to consider the cost of tolls and other fees, such as permits and taxes.

Carriers can save money by planning their routes strategically. They can choose shorter routes with fewer tolls and other fees. They can also choose routes that have the least amount of traffic, which can save them time and money. Carriers can also save money by selecting the type of transport that suits their budget and the value of the cars transported.

Conclusion

Auto transport carriers play a significant role in the efficient movement of vehicles. When transporting cars from coast to coast, carriers must consider several factors, such as distance, time, and road conditions. They also have to consider the transport type, the season and weather conditions, the destination, and the cost. Carriers can ensure successful transport by strategically planning routes and using technology to aid decision-making. The next time you see an auto transport carrier on the road, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication to planning a successful transport.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available anywhere online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping estimates. The standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote, but it may take longer. Use it if you are patient. The expedited car shipping rate is most recommended, and we have countless satisfied customers because the shipping process tends to go quicker. The rush rate is our highest level of car shipping service, and many customers are glad they went with that method.

Photo of Van Shipping a Chrysler Town & Country Minivan

How Much Does It Cost Shipping a Van?

Written by Mike Rupers on . Posted in Auto Transport Tips, Car Transport Calculator, Van Shipping Cost, Vehicle Shipping Cost.

When shipping a van, many factors can affect the overall cost. As a vehicle owner, you may wonder how much you should expect to pay for this service. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about shipping a van, including the factors that influence the cost, methods of transportation, and how to find a reliable car shipping company.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Shipping a Van

  1. Distance: The distance between the pickup and delivery locations plays a significant role in determining the cost. Generally, the greater the distance, the higher the shipping cost.
  2. Size and Weight: The dimensions and weight of your van directly affect the shipping cost. Larger and heavier vans require more space and resources, which can increase the shipping price.
  3. Transport Method: The transport method (open or enclosed) influences the cost. Enclosed transport provides extra protection for your van but comes at a higher price.
  4. Route Accessibility: If the pickup or delivery locations are in remote or hard-to-reach areas, shipping companies may charge extra fees to accommodate the additional effort and resources needed.
  5. Seasonal Factors: Shipping rates can fluctuate depending on the time of year. During peak seasons, demand for shipping services may increase, leading to higher prices.
  6. Insurance: The cost of insurance varies depending on the coverage you choose. Comprehensive insurance coverage will increase the overall cost of shipping your van.

Methods of Shipping a Van

  1. Open Transport: This is the most common and cost-effective van shipping method. Your vehicle is loaded onto an open-air trailer, typically accommodating multiple vehicles. While this method exposes your van to the elements, it’s still a safe and reliable option for most situations.
  2. Enclosed Transport: For added protection, you can choose enclosed transport, where your van ships in a fully enclosed trailer. This option shields your vehicle from weather, debris, and other potential hazards during transit. However, it comes with a higher price tag compared to open transport.

Finding a Reliable Van Shipping Company

  1. Research: Start by conducting thorough research on potential van shipping companies. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to understand the company’s reputation and service quality.
  2. Verify Credentials: Make sure the shipping company is properly licensed and insured. Check their registration with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
  3. Compare Quotes: Request quotes from multiple shipping companies to find the best deal. Be sure to compare not only the cost but also the services provided, such as insurance coverage and transit time.
  4. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the van shipping company any questions you may have about their services, fees, and policies. A reputable company should be transparent and willing to address your concerns.

Tips to Save Money on Van Shipping

  1. Be Flexible with Your Schedule: If possible, schedule your van shipment during off-peak seasons or choose a less busy delivery window, which can help you save on shipping costs.
  2. Book in Advance: Booking your shipment well in advance can give you more options and better rates, as shipping companies tend to offer discounts for early bookings.
  3. Choose Open Transport: Opting for open transport over enclosed transport can significantly reduce the cost of shipping your van.
  4. Consolidate Shipments: If you have multiple vehicles to ship or can coordinate with others, consolidating shipments can lead to cost savings.

Popular Mini-Vans, Cargo Vans & Full-Size Passenger Vans

To provide you with a better understanding of the shipping process, let’s take a look at some examples of popular vans, mini-vans, and cargo vans. Remember that the shipping costs for these vehicles may differ based on the factors we discussed earlier.

Mini-Vans We Ship

  1. Honda Odyssey: Known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features, the Honda Odyssey has been a top choice for families for many years.
  2. Toyota Sienna: The Toyota Sienna is another highly-regarded mini-van, offering a comfortable ride, ample storage, and a reputation for reliability.
  3. Chrysler Pacifica: With its sleek design and innovative features, the Chrysler Pacifica has become a popular choice among mini-van buyers who value style and functionality.

Cargo Vans We Transport

  1. Ford Transit: The Ford Transit is a versatile cargo van available in various sizes and configurations, making it a popular choice for businesses and individuals alike.
  2. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is known for its durability, fuel efficiency, and high-quality build, making it an excellent choice for businesses that require a reliable cargo van.
  3. Ram ProMaster: The Ram ProMaster is a cargo van designed for maximum storage and easy loading, making it an ideal choice for businesses that need to transport large quantities of goods.

Full-Size Vans We Haul

  1. Chevrolet Express: The Chevrolet Express is a versatile full-size van that can be configured for passenger or cargo use, offering a range of options to suit various needs.
  2. Nissan NV: The Nissan NV is a full-size van available in both passenger and cargo configurations, providing ample space and a range of features to accommodate different requirements.
  3. GMC Savana: The GMC Savana is a full-size van that offers flexibility and durability, making it a popular choice for businesses and individuals who need a dependable, multi-purpose vehicle.

Conclusion

Remember that the cost of shipping any of these vans will depend on distance, size and weight, transport method, and other variables. By understanding these factors and choosing a reliable shipping company, you can ensure that your van transports safely and efficiently.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available anywhere online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping estimates. The standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote, but it may take longer. Use it if you are patient. We recommend the expedited car shipping rate and have countless satisfied customers because the shipping process tends to go quicker. The rush rate is our highest level of car shipping service, and many customers are glad they went with that method.