For many individuals, relocating from a chilly winter atmosphere to a warmer climate is not a vacation; it is a seasonal relocation. Individuals who spend their winters in warm climates are often referred to as snowbirds. People ship cars by the thousands to and from Florida because they don’t want to leave without them. One way to do this is to ship cars to these locations. You must plan everything properly so that it does not create any unnecessary expenses and everything goes smooth.
Our Snowbird Seasonal Car Shipping Guide will walk you through the steps to understand how it works, what to expect, and how to make it happen.
What does snowbird seasonal auto shipping involve?
The seasonal shipping of cars to and from a winter destination is known as snowbird seasonal car shipping. The winter vacationer takes their vehicle to a warm climate or another state for the winter months. Snowbirds can take advantage of this shipping to ship their cars and not deal with rentals or public transport in these areas.
Many snowbirds will travel between a seasonal home and a primary home far enough that shipping your car is the best option. It’s often not worth bothering when it takes that long to drive. Snowbirds can fly instead of long driving while their vehicle gets transport to the same destination as them.
When shipping your car as a snowbird, what things to consider?
Many factors will affect how your car is shipped. When will you ship and what is the cost? Keep in mind a few key things as pictured here.
Shipping Schedule
Snowbirds have to time it right. To avoid delays during peak periods, it is advisable to schedule your car shipment in advance. Many snowbirds migrate south in the fall and spring. Transport businesses generally have a peak period for bookings and by booking early you will be able to secure a carrier.
Means of Transport
When shipping cars to a remote or seasonal destination there are two options: open transport and enclosed transport.
Open transport is the most popular and an economical option. Your car transported on a carrier that is open to the elements. Most cars can work well, particularly if they are not too luxurious or valuable.
If your car is valuable, classic or a luxury model, opt for enclosed car transport. Covering your vehicle in a durable, premium material will protect it better from the elements, stones and other hazards.
The locations for pickup and drop of the goods
Ensure the truck can get into both the pickup and delivery locations. In certain remote areas, additional planning may be necessary so that the carrier can approach as close to the location as possible.
In case your pickup/drop-off location is difficult to access, shipment between terminals could be an option. Essentially, your vehicle will not be picked up or dropped off for use at your door, it will be at a terminal near you.
Consider a budget plan
The price you will pay to ship a car will be determined by a few factors. This includes the distance to the destination, size of the vehicle, method, and time of year. Typically, open transport costs less than contained transport, however, if you are after extra safety it could be worth the extra cost.
You should get multiple quotes from a transport company for competitive rates. Ask about any seasonal promotions or bulk rates for shipping multiple cars.
Prepare your automobile for the shipping location
You need to prepare your vehicle correctly before it is picked up for transport. Here is some advice to keep your car ready for the trip.
Keep your vehicle clean
Make sure you clean your vehicle before handing it over for transport. Moreover, you are able to quickly spot dent, scratches and other imperfections with a clean vehicle.
Remove Personal Items
The company will not cover any items left inside your car. Hence, all personal belongings removed from your car.
Having unsecured cargo causes damage to the vehicle and other vehicles being transport in the carrier.
Check the fuel level
Most transport companies recommend keeping the fuel level of the truck at an average of ¼ tanks. Lowering vehicle weight facilitates safer and easier transportation.
What Does an Average Shipping Process Look Like?
The transport company gives a delivery date estimate for your car after it picked up. The time taken by your vehicle to reach a destination varies with the distance, the weather, and the road conditions.
Transport firms provide you with tracking details as well as the phone contacts of their customer service representatives if you have any complaints about your parcel.
Be sure to inspect the car carefully when delivered and make sure it is in the same condition when delivered as when picked-up. Contact the insurance company of the transportation company to file report errors.
Keep in touch with the transport company during the whole journey so that you can receive updates and everything happens as planned.
To summarize
Car shipping for snowbirds is becoming an increasingly requested service. It’s practical to think about moving an automobile to and from your winter place of residence. It’s easy to ship your car to your second home, and then back again, with seasonal car shipping. When preparing your freight shipment load, consider timing and mode of transport and preparation from the vehicle side. If you are heading down south for the winter, or coming back home, a professional auto transport service can save you a whole lot of time and trouble. In addition, such services can ensure safe delivery of your vehicle.
Shipping Car Quotes provides cost-effective car transport quotes for snowbirds. Contact us today for a free quote for seasonal vehicle transportation services. Take a winter trip without driving hassle.
