Transportation costs for cars can vary greatly depending on the month. During certain times of the year, auto transport companies experience less demand, which allows them to offer lower rates. Knowing the cheapest time to ship your vehicle can save you significant money.
So, what month is the cheapest month for car transport service?
February often offers budget-friendly car auto transport. The post-holiday lull means fewer vehicles hit the road. This dip in demand translates to lower prices for savvy customers.
The late fall and autumn months offer the best rates. September, October, and November see moderate weather and reduced shipping volumes. Car transporters often slash prices during these quieter periods. Shippers can expect to pay 10-20% less in October compared to peak summer and winter months.
Winter months generally boast lower costs, with two exceptions. December and January buck the trend due to holiday travel and snowbird migrations. These months see a surge in demand for transportation services.
Early spring and fall can be wallet-friendly seasons for transporting cars. March and September offer a sweet spot between peak periods. Auto companies and transport services often provide competitive rates during these transitional months.
Season | Price Trend |
Autumn | Lowest |
Early Spring/Fall | Moderate |
Winter & Summer | Highest |

What is the best time for car transportation?
For Cheapest Auto Transport Services:
Late fall to early spring often brings wallet-friendly rates. February stands out as a prime month for budget-conscious customers. Car transporters typically slash prices during this off-peak period.
Autumn months like September and October offer attractive deals. Moderate weather conditions make transporting cars smoother and more cost-effective. Transport companies often provide competitive rates during these transitional months. The truck-to-load ratio is the lowest from September to November.

For the fastest service from auto transporters:
Summer months bring smoother operations for car shipping companies. Clear skies and dry roads expedite transportation car processes. However, peak demand can lead to higher prices and longer wait times.
For a balance of cost and convenience:
October to November often hit the sweet spot. These seasons blend moderate prices with decent weather, and transportation services run efficiently without breaking the bank.
For specific situations:
Snowbirds face unique challenges when planning auto car transport. Winter sees high southbound demand, while spring brings northbound rushes. College moves spike transport car requests in early June and late August.
Which Months should you Avoid When Transporting Cars With an Auto Transport Company?
Summer months (June, July, August):
Summer sees peak demand for car transportation services. Families relocate during school breaks, causing price spikes. College moves flood the market with transport requests, and every transport company struggles to meet the surge in bookings.
December and early January:
The holiday season rush complicates car shipping logistics. Snowbirds flock south, overwhelming transport services. Many transporters take time off, limiting options. Severe weather poses risks in numerous regions.
Late March to May:
Spring brings its own set of auto shipping hurdles. Snowbirds return north, creating a reverse migration rush. Spring break travel increases demand for transport services, and companies often raise prices to match the uptick.
Period | Key Challenges |
Summer | Peak demand, high prices |
Winter Holidays | Limited availability, weather risks |
Spring | Increasing demand, transitional weather |
5 Things to Watch for When Using Car Shipping Companies in Off-Season to Transport Cars:
1. Weather-related delays:
Off-season often means challenging weather conditions for transporters. Winter storms can slow down auto transportation significantly.
Companies may need to adjust routes unexpectedly. Allow extra time for potential weather-related setbacks.
2. Limited availability of services:
Some car transporters reduce operations during slow periods. This can lead to fewer scheduling options. Transport services might run less frequently in off-peak months. Plan to secure your preferred shipping dates.
3. Potential for lower service quality:
Off-season may bring inexperienced staff to some companies. Seasoned drivers might take time off during slower periods.
This could impact the quality of transportation services. Research reviews and company reputations carefully before booking.
Service Aspect | Off-Season Risk |
Weather Delays | Higher |
Availability | Lower |
Service Quality | Variable |
4. Extended transit times:
Fewer shipments mean longer waits for full loads. Transport companies may take longer to fill trucks, which can considerably extend overall transit times. Factor in potential delays when planning your car transportation.
5. Fluctuating prices:
Off-season rates can be unpredictable for auto shipping. Some transporters offer significant discounts to attract business. Others might increase prices to offset lower volume. Compare quotes from multiple transport companies for best results.