Car Shipping in Summer vs. Winter - How Seasonal Differences Impact Your Transport Experience

Shipment of vehicles is a process that comes with many factors to consider, and one of the main ones is the season.

 

Though it is more evident to the public, the weather plays a crucial role in how long it will take to transport your car, how much it will cost, and other preparations you need to make before your vehicle can be shipped.

 

By the above breakdown of seasonal fluctuations in the auto transport business, you can be in a better position to avoid one costly pitfall: stress.

 

This article highlights some of the differences that can be expected when shipping your car during summer or winter and ways through which necessary preparations can be made.

 

Shipping during the winter: Lower costs, higher risk of delays

 

Winter often means lower costs for car shipping due to decreased demand.

 

Fewer people ship their cars during this season, leading to more open spaces on carriers.

 

This leads to some level of competition among carriers, hence achieving the aim of providing low rates for the customers.

 

For those who don't want to spend much on transportation, winter is the best time to transport their vehicles.

 

However, winter shipping comes with its challenges:

 

• Weather-related delays: This usually fails pick-up or delivery service since weather conditions like snowstorms, icy roads, and extreme cold can wash over time.
  
  

• Safety concerns: Long-distance travel during such a period is very dangerous; thus, professional auto transport is much more secure.

 

There are several types of transport, but if you want to ensure that your car remains safe during the winter months, you should opt for enclosed transport if you are carrying a valuable or an antique car.

 

In open transport, your vehicle will be exposed to sand, salt, and other abrasions that damage the car's body.

 

Shipping during the summer: Higher costs, faster delivery

 

Summer is a busy season as demand is high, so the rates for auto shipment also get high.

 

These are families who move from one state to another, students who also move from one college to another, and vacationers who require car shipping services.

 

This means that when shipping is done during summer, it is usually costly.

 

Despite the higher costs, summer shipping offers distinct advantages:

 

• Faster delivery times: Conditions that are not as severe help carriers perform better in many instances, leading to timely cargo delivery.
  
  

• Easier scheduling: Due to long hours of daylight and consistent weather, there are few disruptions to scheduled delivery compared to the winter season.

 

While summer may be more expensive, the convenience and reliability of faster delivery can outweigh the added cost, especially for those on tight timelines.

 

Preparing your car for summer and winter shipping

 

Proper preparation is essential regardless of the season

 

Here are key steps to ensure your car is ready for transport:

 

Winter preparation

 

1. Radiator and cooling system: Refill your radiator, as it might freeze when transporting your car in a cold climate.
   
   
2. Tire pressure: It is known that tire pressure reduces with the increase in temperature all around due to cold temperatures. Deflate your tires to winter set pressure to minimize under-inflation when you are in the winter location.
   
   
3. Exterior protection: If open transport is chosen, the car should be washed and waxed to form a barrier against salts, sand, or snow deposition. It is meant to purchase an auto cover to enhance your auto's security during parking.

 

Summer preparation

 

1. Cooling system maintenance: Regular checks on the amount of water in your radiator and the coolant will ensure that your car does not overheat while in transit during hot weather.
   
   
2. Tire pressure: It should be noted that high temperatures cause tire pressure to rise, and this leads to overinflation. Adjust the PSI to match the temperature conditions at your destination.
   
   
3. Interior protection: High temperature should also be considered because it is dangerous to the car's interior. If your vehicle is left in a sunny area, it is advisable to heat carrier-sensitive items and use car shades.

 

When you do this, you can ensure your car is prepared to face any related season challenges.

 

Summer and winter price fluctuations

 

Since the auto transport industry is somewhat seasonal, prices will fluctuate depending on the season.

 

Here's what to expect:

 

• Summer pricing: Higher demand leads to more valuable open slots on carriers, increasing costs. However, faster delivery times and consistent weather may justify the premium.
  
  

• Winter pricing: Lower demand reduces costs, making winter the most budget-friendly time to ship. Please remember that different weather conditions might arise, possibly leading to late delivery.

 

To understand these fluctuations, you can optimize your car shipment planning by balancing cost and convenience.

 

Choosing the right transport option

 

When deciding on transport services, consider the pros and cons of open and enclosed transport:

• Open transport: Cost-effective but exposes your vehicle to weather and road elements.
  
  

• Enclosed transport: Provides superior protection, ideal for high-value or classic cars, but comes with a higher price tag.

 

Also, read Open vs. enclosed car shipping

 

Why seasonality matters in car shipping

 

Seasonal differences have a direct impact on your auto transport experience.

 

Having information on what to expect when shipping a car during summer or winter will assist you in making the right decision when selecting the best company for your vehicle.

 

Choose Universal Transit for your seasonal car shipping needs

 

Ready to ship your car?

 

Universal Transit is here to simplify the process.

 

Summertime is hot, and wintertime is cold, but we give you options all year round.

 

• Flexible transport options: The use of open and enclosed transport as required.
  
  

• Real-time tracking: Always seek to get the latest information concerning the condition of your vehicle at each level.
  
  

• Transparent pricing: Algorithms generate free, immediate, and precise quotes in the blink of an eye.

 

Don't wait any longer and get on the road to a smooth car shipping process!