Time is a crucial factor for what price will be set. Time is also a crucial factor for how fast the delivery will be. Moreover, time affects availability. Additionally, time is a very important factor that influences the quality of the service when you are shipping a vehicle out of state.
If it is a question of relocating, buying a new car, sending a car to your family members, or transporting a car which you are going to use seasonally, then definitely timing the plan will help you save both time and money.
We at 1st Car Shipping have moved your cars across the states on numerous occasions. We know very well the impact of seasonal demand and carrier price changes on your transportation plan. So, continue reading to learn about the best and the worst times for your car to be shipped across the country.

Why Timing Matters for Cross-State Vehicle Shipping
At any point throughout the year, the demand will fluctuate as a result of factors like weather, holidays, tourism, and moves.
- Shipping costs
- Carrier availability
- Delivery windows
- Transit speed
- Overall convenience
It is valuable in figuring out the months when you can move your car to another state for the least amount of money. As the case may be with a car transport that continues throughout the year, there are less busy months. The months during which it is easier to ship are less expensive.
Late Winter to Early Spring (February – April)
This period can be considered as the most advantageous time for a cross-state car relocation.
Why These Months Are Ideal:
- Lower demand than summer season
- Fewer holiday delays
- Mild weather improving road conditions
- Better carrier availability
- Competitive pricing before spring rush
During the months of February to April, the pleasant weather and the not too high demand make it a good opportunity to transport goods across the state.
Early Fall (September – October)
The first half of October is also a great time for the reloading of goods from the neighboring states after summer.
Why Fall Shipping Is Optimal:
- Summer traffic and demand have dropped
- Weather is still mild in most states
- Fewer snowbird routes clogging carrier schedules
- Fall pricing is generally lower and more stable
Since kids have returned to school, and the number of people traveling has decreased, autumn is among the cheapest personal transport periods.
Months to Avoid for Cross-State Shipping (If You Want Lower Prices)
The fall is one of the least expensive periods for a personal vehicle when kids have gone back to school and the number of people traveling has dropped.
Peak Summer (June – August)
Summer is the peak time for auto transport.
Key Issues:
- High demand due to relocation season
- Traffic congestion on major highways
- Limited carrier availability
- Higher shipping rates
- Longer pickup windows
If you must ship during summer, book as early as possible.
Winter Snowbird Season (Late October – January)
It is true that not every month is manageable, and some times of the year become so problematic that costs and schedules become less favorable.
Common Challenges:
- Limited truck availability
- Severe weather delays
- Higher overall costs
- Longer delivery times
One of the main reasons for such a situation is the snowbirds who relocate their vehicles from the northern states to the south and thus create enormous spikes in demand.
How Weather Influences the Best Months for Cross-State Shipping
The days November through December are heavily crowded with holiday travel activities, thus making these months very congested.
Mild Weather = Faster, Safer Shipping
Weather has an impact on the speed as well as the security of vehicle transportation.
Extreme Weather = More Delays
- Transportation systems can slow due to winter storms, ice, and heavy snow.
- Summer heat may stress equipment and reduce the travel speed.
You can have the best drive in March, April, September, and October.
Tips for Planning Cross-State Shipping During Any Season
Still, if you happen to be unable to ship during the best months, these tips will allow you to keep money and make the shipping process more convenient all the way through.
Book Early
Sometimes carriers offer a certain amount of places at a discount or at a guaranteed price for early bookers.
Stay Flexible With Dates
By giving flex carriers the opportunity to put your shipment on their route they can do so very easily.
Consider Open Transport for Lower Costs
Open carriers are less expensive and can be found quite easily throughout the year.
Avoid Holiday Periods
There are very large piles of work during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.
Prepare for Weather-Based Delays
Storms and high temperatures have an effect on the time of travel.
Use Door-to-Door Service for Convenience
- Travel in a car is usually faster and involves fewer surprises.
- A little planning ahead of time goes a long way..
Why Choose 1st Car Shipping for Year-Round Cross-State Transport
However, a skilled transport provider will still make the delivery smoother, communication easier, and delivery safer irrespective of the month chosen.
1st Car Shipping Offers:
- Reliable service in all 50 states
- Open and enclosed carrier options
- Transparent, competitive pricing
- Real-time updates
- Licensed and insured carriers
- Door-to-door nationwide delivery
- Weather-aware route planning
- Support for urgent and scheduled shipments
We do not restrict ourselves with the seasons of the year and thus, we are always ready to ship, and we also advise customers as to when to ship in order to get the best results.
Final Thoughts: Choose the Best Months for Cross-State Shipping Based on Your Needs
If you are looking for the lowest cost and the most seamless experience then I would recommend that you schedule your relocation during the best months for transportation between states.
The rates, weather, and availability are at their best when people move from one state to another during the period from February to April and from September to October.
At 1st Car Shipping we know how seasonal changes can affect transporting your vehicle. We can help you figure out the best time to ship your car if you are moving to another state or buying a vehicle online.
Are you ready to get your vehicle ready to go at the right time? Drop by 1stCarShipping.com and get a quote & advice on which month works best.

