What’s the Best Time of Year to Ship a Car with an Open Carrier?
Shipping a car from one side of the country to another can be a big task. While you might consider driving the vehicle yourself, this adds unnecessary miles to your car and takes up your time. An easier way is to ship your car using a transport service. However, the best time to ship your car depends on several factors. Timing can play a huge role in how smoothly the process goes, how quickly your car arrives, and even how much it costs. One of the most common and popular methods for shipping cars is using an open carrier. If you want to ensure the process is as seamless as possible, you should consider working with Top Rated Car Shippers in the US. These trusted professionals will help guide you through the shipping process and ensure that your car is delivered safely and on time, no matter the time of year.
This blog will explain when is the best time to ship your car using an open carrier, so you can make the best decision and avoid unnecessary delays or complications.
What is an Open Carrier?
Before we dive into the best times to ship your car, it’s important to understand what an open carrier is. An open carrier is a truck with an open trailer, and it’s the most common and affordable way to ship a car. It’s a popular option because it’s cost-effective and can carry multiple cars at once. However, your car will be exposed to the elements, like rain or sun, during transport, which means it’s not as protected as it would be in an enclosed carrier.
Many factors affect the best time to ship a car with an open carrier, including transport season, the destination, and the weather. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.
Transport Season: Summer is the Busiest Time
It may sound surprising, but many people in the United States tend to move during the warmer months. The most common moving season for families is from April to September, as the weather is better and it’s easier to move without worrying about school schedules. As a result, the auto transport industry also sees a rise in business during these months.
Most open carrier shipments happen between June and August, and these are the busiest months for car shipping. The reason for this is that more people are moving and the demand for transport is higher. During these summer months, it’s much easier to ship a car because the weather is generally clear and favorable.
If you plan on shipping your car during these months, be aware that because it is peak season, the availability of transport may be limited. You might need to book your shipment in advance to get the best deal and ensure your car is transported in a timely manner.
Avoid the Rush: Shipping Outside of Peak Season
While the summer months are the busiest and most popular, they aren’t always the best time for everyone. If you want to avoid the higher demand and potentially higher prices, you might consider shipping your car outside of the peak summer months.
The off-peak months, like late fall and winter (November through March), can offer lower prices and less competition for transport slots. During this time, the demand for auto transport is lower because fewer people are moving. However, there are some drawbacks to shipping your car during this time.
Consider the Destination: Short vs. Long Distances
Where you are shipping your car can also affect when you should choose to ship it. If you're moving your car across a short distance, such as from one state to a nearby state, you have more flexibility in terms of timing. Short-distance shipments generally don’t take as long and are less affected by weather conditions.
However, long-distance shipments, especially those that cross the country or go through areas with unpredictable weather, can be more complicated. Shipping a car across the country may require more time, and weather conditions like snowstorms or heavy rain can cause delays. Because of this, it might be wise to plan long-distance shipments during the warmer months when weather conditions are more predictable.
Weather: The Biggest Factor
Weather plays a huge role in the success of your car shipment. Good weather is ideal for open-air carriers because it means your car will be safely transported without delays. Summer, with its warm and sunny weather, is usually the best time to ship a car for this reason.
On the other hand, bad weather like heavy rain, snow, or extreme cold can cause problems for open-air transport. In these conditions, transport companies may face delays, or in some cases, they may have to stop transport altogether to ensure safety. Winter storms, for example, can block roads or make them dangerous, and this can cause long delays in getting your car to its destination.
If you need to ship your car in winter, be prepared for the possibility of delays. Always ask the transport company about how weather might affect the shipment, especially if the weather is unpredictable in your area. If you live in a region that often experiences snow and ice, try to avoid shipping your car during these months if possible, or at least plan for extra time.
How Does Shipping During Winter Affect Your Car?
While shipping your car in winter isn’t impossible, it does come with some challenges. The biggest issue is the cold weather, which can affect the condition of your car during transit. If your car is exposed to snow or freezing temperatures for a long period, it could lead to rust or other weather-related damages.
However, if you use a well-maintained open carrier and the company has experience handling shipments in winter, the risk of damage is minimal. It’s still important to check with the transport company to make sure they are equipped to handle winter shipments safely and to ask about any precautions they take in cold weather.
Preparing for the Shipment
Regardless of when you decide to ship your car, there are a few things you should do to ensure a smooth experience. Especially during busy seasons like summer, it’s a good idea to book your shipment at least two weeks in advance. This gives you time to compare prices and ensure availability. Before shipping, make sure your car is clean and free of any personal belongings. Inspect the car for any existing damage and take pictures. This way, if there’s any new damage when it arrives, you’ll have proof of its condition before shipping. If you’re shipping during a season when bad weather is a concern, keep an eye on the forecast. Be flexible in case of delays, and keep in touch with the transport company for updates.
Conclusion:
In general, the best time to ship a car using an open carrier is during the summer months, between June and August. The weather is most favorable, and transport demand is high, so there’s more availability. However, if you want to save money and avoid the rush, you can consider shipping your car in the off-peak months, such as late fall or winter. Just be prepared for potential delays and weather-related issues.
Whether you're shipping across a short distance or across the country, always take into account the destination, weather, and time of year. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and ensure that your car gets to its destination safely and without unnecessary delays. To make the process even smoother, consider you can contact the Best Auto Transport Company in USA. These top-rated professionals will help you navigate the shipping process, ensuring your vehicle is handled with care and delivered on time, no matter the season.
