Does Car Shipping Cost More in Summer vs. Winter?

There’s something about summer that just feels expensive as a whole. You pop into the store for sunscreen and somehow leave with a bill of over $100. If you’re planning a big move, vacation, or buying a car from out of state during those sunny months, chances are you’re also thinking about how to get that car from Point A to Point B without melting your budget like the ice cream your forgot in the bottom of your bag.

Let me let you in on a little secret when it comes to moving your car- not all seasons are created equal. Just like airline tickets, hotels, or ice cream trucks on a Saturday, demand drives pricing. You can believe me that summer brings the heat in more ways than one.

So yes, shipping your car in summer does cost more than in winter, but don’t worry, just because prices spike doesn’t mean you can’t still get a deal. With a little strategy, smart timing, and knowing how the seasonal things work, you can keep things cool and most importantly-affordable.

Let’s roll through why this happens and what you can do to keep more money for your beach margs, road snacks, and poolside book collection you have going so you can enjoy summer to the fullest.

Summer is the peak season for car shipping. This isn't because families love to pay more, but rather because everyone’s on the move. Families relocate before the school year starts, college kids are heading to internships or back home, military soldiers receive new assignments, snowbirds are wrapping up their Florida fun and heading north to the slopes.. The list goes on and on..The one thing they all have in common is that they all want to bring their cars.

That kind of demand jacks up prices up. Drivers and carriers are in high demand, and when there are more cars than space on trucks, carriers can charge whatever they want and know they will still have work. It’s the basic law of supply and demand. Think of it like trying to book a beachfront Airbnb over Christmas weekend. Good luck scoring a steal without booking months in advance.

Another thing that contributes to the jump in summer prices is the weather. Yes, the good weather. Roads are clear, the days are long, and cross-country hauls are easier to manage without storms and icy highways slowing everything down and causing danger.

More people feel comfortable scheduling transports, and more carriers are available, but also more jobs are pouring in. Everyone's trying to jump on the sunny summer schedule and get things done before the new year begins.

Average Summer Car Shipping Cost (Cross-Country)

• $1,000 – $1,300 (open transport)
• $1,400 – $1,800 (enclosed transport)

While you might think prices drop simply because fewer people are shipping cars in the winter, there’s another side to it. Winter brings unpredictable weather, fewer daylight hours for safe working conditions, and riskier road conditions.

Although there may be less demand overall, there are also fewer carriers willing to drive through snow storms or up icy mountains to get that car delivered which can also cause prices to rise depending on your route.

If you're shipping along a northern, mountainous route in winter, you might actually end up paying more than in the summer despite it being the “off-season.” Those carriers who do accept the job are factoring in the added time, risk, and insurance.

If you’re shipping through southern states or along mild-weather areas, winter can be your golden opportunity. Routes like California to Texas or Florida to Georgia are the prime time for scoring a deal.

Average Winter Car Shipping Cost (Cross-Country)

• $850 – $1,100 (open transport)
• $1,200 – $1,600 (enclosed transport)

Enjoy our list of proper ways to save no matter the season:

1. If you’re not in a rush and can be flexible with your pickup and delivery dates, you have way more leverage over the pricing no matter the season. This is especially useful in summer. When demand is high, carriers fill up quickly. If you’re set on one particular day or time, you’ll either wait longer or pay more. On the other hand, if you say, “Hey, I’m good anytime this week,” brokers can jump on the first opening that fits your route and budget and for that they will be willing to give you big discounts.
2. Timing your booking is another trick. Just like when buying plane tickets, you don’t want to book too late. Try to schedule your shipment at least two to three weeks in advance in summer. Last-minute bookings get expensive and stressful. You’ll get the leftovers, and those often come with a premium price tag. Shame- just think about it and book on time and you will save more than your neighbors.
3. If you’re shipping multiple cars, you might be able to snatch up a better deal. Carriers love efficiency. If they can pick up two cars at the same location and drop them at the same place, that’s less fuel, less time, and more profit for them. Don’t be afraid to ask if they’ll cut you a little summer bundle discount if you bundle with a neighbor.
4. Discounts run in the family. Summer is a huge season for college moves if its for internships, cross-state programs, first apartments or whatever reason, we see plenty of moves in these months. If you’re shipping a car for your kid or you’re a student yourself, ask for a student rate. Some companies even offer seasonal specials just for that crowd, especially in May and August.
5. If you migrate like the birds, then know there's a deal for you. When everyone tends to head north in the spring and south in the fall, it creates huge waves of demand, and pricing follows this. If you can plan your shipment to either follow or avoid that migration (depending on where your car needs to go), you’ll either get ahead of the spike or slip in behind it when prices go down.
6. Here’s a summer trick: ask about partial routes or shared loads. Sometimes a carrier already has two or three cars heading your direction and just needs one more to fill the trailer. If your route matches, you might be able to take advantage at a lower rate simply by helping them fill out a load. These “we’ve got a spot if you want it” deals happen more than you think, especially in summer when trucks are constantly moving.
7. Be willing to meet the carrier at a drop-off point. That beautiful driveway of yours might be a dream so you can enjoy your coffee while you wait, but if it’s far off the highway or tucked behind three alleys, the carrier might charge extra. Offer to meet at a nearby mall, parking lot, or rest stop and shave off some of that extra summer fee if you ask- you might just receive.
8. Don’t forget to clean out your car. Summer trips mean people tend to load their vehicles with everything. Know that carriers charge more for overweight cars, and they’re not liable for any of your personal stuff. Pack light and you’ll avoid added fees and possible insurance issues with additional fees.

Always check the fine print. Some companies sneak in seasonal surcharges during summer. It might not be labeled as a summer fee, but look for vague “summer logistics rates” or “priority scheduling fees.” If it seems strange, ask what it is and if it can be removed. Don’t be afraid to walk away and find a carrier who’s more transparent with their pricing. It’s your car and your money. You’ve got options- with that mindset and preparation like reading this article from iMoving- you will save.

So, while yes, summer is usually the more expensive season to ship a car—it’s also the most active. With some smart planning, good timing, and a bit of sunny vibes and charm, you can navigate the seasonal move like a total pro.

With the funds you will save thanks to iMoving, you might just finally book that weekend getaway to Mexico or splurge on the fancy cooler with cup holders and Bluetooth to enjoy by the pool.