When it comes to seasonal car shipping rate trends there always are certain factors which might affect its prices at a particular time of the year. Whether you are relocating for work. Shopping for a vehicle, or sending a car to another location, knowing how the seasons affect pricing will help you schedule your vehicle shipping more accurately.
In this blog, we will discuss seasonal car shipping rate trends. Also, we will cover what affects rates, and how to get the best prices. Most importantly, how understanding these can help you save money! When it’s all said and done, you will have a solid understanding of how the car shipping process goes and the best times to ship to save money.
How Seasonal Car Shipping and Rate Trends Affect Prices
The cost to ship a car is dynamic and differs based on seasonality and other factors. By understanding these seasonal car shipping rates, you can optimize your shipment for the right time and cost.
Shipping Rates in Winter
When the weather gets cold, the demand for car shipping goes down in the winter months. This is especially true for people who live in the colder regions. This shall be true because fewer people move or buy cars in these months. Because of this, the rates drop and thus if you flexible on timing, it is a good time to ship cars.
Nonetheless, there are potential drawbacks of shipping in winter. Bad weather conditions, snowstorms and icy streets can create delays and affect shipping. Shipping in winter could mean extra delays due to weather. And winter shipping might mean fewer transport options in the extreme. So, if you plan on shipping in winter, that’s something to keep in mind.
Rates for Shipping during Spring and Summer
Spring and summer seasons are peak periods for car shipping. As we head into warmer months and the public see winter off, they start moving, buying cars and traveling, demand for auto transport services is on the rise. This rise in demand results in increased prices.
Between April and August, you can expect noticeable price increases, specifically for long-haul shipments or specific routes. Vehicle shipping services are commonly relied upon by dealerships when sales get hot, and with the warm weather comes more relocation. Car shipping costs are rising due to these reasons during this period.
At Car Shipping Source, we help you navigate through busy shipping seasons, allowing you to get what you need while saving money during peak times.
Autumn Shipping Tariffs
As summer ends and the cooler months arrive, demand for car shipping starts to decline. From September until October, this is the period when the winter slow down starts. Rates are still high due to consistent shipping demand, but prices may start to come down.
If you require shipping services, autumn is certainly a good time to ship a car if you are looking for value for money. When demand decreases prices are slightly lower but there are still plenty of transport options.
Things that affect seasonal car shipping cost
Learning the causes of seasonal car shipping rate changes can help you prepare for any changes in rate and plan your car shipping correctly.
Changes in Demand
Price fluctuations across seasons occur essentially due to the demand for auto transport services. In the spring and summer, vehicle demand increases significantly, which in turn increases prices during these peak seasons. A great number of people move, buy cars, and travel in these months requiring an auto transport service.
On the other hand, demand for auto transport decreases in the off-peak months (fall and winter). And prices are likely to be lower. The less people mover and the car dealer don’t stock as much body to the resulting less demand and lower shipping rates.
Weather and road conditions
The conditions of the roads and the weather in the regions is also another key factor. For instance, winter shipping creates risk of weather-related delays, impacting time in transit. Due to snowstorms, icy roads, and road closures, it is more difficult to transport vehicles in the colder months and this risk is factored into the rates.
Moreover, harsh climate may shut down certain routes forcing the carriers to take a longer or alternative route which increases the cost of transport. A knowledge of weather’s effect on shipping routes can help you time shipments correctly and avoid delays.
Fuel Costs
The price of fuel changes continuously over the year and affects auto transport pricing. Though average seasonal car shipping rates are generated based on demand. With fuel prices having a major impact on shipping rates. Typically, when fuel prices go up, carriers impose fuel surcharges on customers to pass on this added cost. During season changes like summer, there is an increase in driving and fuel consumption. The surcharges start to increase as a result.
At Car Shipping Source, we’ll let you know how fuel cost will affect your shipping quote so you can budget accordingly and avoid any surprises in costs.
A guide to reducing charges during peak deliveries
Although you can’t evade the seasonal car shipping rate trends at all times. You can follow a few money-saving strategies to save money on your vehicle shipping.
Make a Reservation Early
Booking your car transport early can help you land decrease rates, especially if you are transporting during the peak season. Many auto transport companies provide discounts for those who book services in advance. Reserving your shipment at an early date will guarantee you access to the best available transportation options so you don’t experience any delays or price hikes.
Stay clear of peak seasons
If your schedule allows it, try not to ship in the spring and summer peak seasons, if possible. The price to ship your car could decrease during the fall/winter months because there is less demand for shipping during this time of year.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Prices of car shipping depend on each company’s costing. Asking for multiple quotes from different companies will help you compare their rates and services. Try to keep in mind that the cheapest option is not always the best, so also check the level of service and reputation of the company.
Car shipping source offers competitive pricing along with quotes that are easy to understand- so that you can budget well your auto transport.
When’s the best time to book car shipment?
When it comes to car shipping rate trends, timing is everything. If you want to save money, try to schedule your shipment in the late fall to early winter months when it’s off-peak. You are advised to book your shipment during the April and May months as it offers lowest rates and maximum chance of affordable and timely delivery.
If you are moving your vehicle during peak season (spring or summer). Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance to secure a reasonable rate and avoid a last-minute surge in prices.
Summing up: Commentary on Seasonal Vehicle Shipping Rate Trends
The rates for seasonal car shipping will impact how much vehicle transport will cost overall. By understanding how demand, weather, fuel prices and other factors affect shipping rates at various times of the year, you can save quite a bit on your shipment.
At Car Shipping Source , we’ll help you evaluate car shipping rates whether it’s for a car show, winter snowbird car shipping or holiday auto transport needs. Whether you’re shipping in season or out of season, we have flexible, affordable, and reliable shipping options for you. Reach out to us for a no-obligation quote, we will assist you in arranging your next vehicle shipment!
