Why Do Car Shipping Prices Change?

If you’ve ever explored the idea of shipping your car, you might have noticed that car transport costs can vary significantly. One day, a quote may seem affordable; the next, it might be higher. Why does the cost of car shipping change so frequently?

Price changes can be frustrating, but understanding the factors behind them can help you make more informed decisions and even save money. 

In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the key reasons behind price changes, unraveling the mystery of car shipping costs and helping you confidently navigate the process.

Key Factors Affecting Car Shipping Costs

Understanding the factors that affect car shipping costs is crucial for making informed decisions. Several dynamic elements come into play, influencing the final price you pay. Let’s explore these key factors and how they impact car shipping quotes. 

Seasonal Variations

Time of year is a significant factor that affects car shipping costs. Prices will be high during high-demand seasons. Snowbird season is one such period. It’s when individuals migrate to warmer southern states to escape the winter weather in the north. The demand for shipping to these locations increases, which may lead to higher costs. 

Another time of the year when demand for auto transport services is high is moving season. Nationally, this starts in May and lasts until around September. This is the time of year when more Americans pack up and move to a new home. This also means they might be shipping their vehicles as well. 

It’s important to keep track of seasonal variations and plan your car shipping accordingly.   

Weather

Weather is another factor that can significantly impact auto transport services and prices. We’re talking about severe or sudden weather events such as natural disasters or extreme conditions like tornados, blizzards, hurricanes, and mudslides. All of these may increase the cost of auto transport services. 

It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast and keep in mind that it can impact the price of shipping your car.  

Carrier Availability

The availability of carriers at any given time can also be a contributing factor. When they are in high demand, prices may rise due to the increased competition for their services. 

If you choose to ship your car during less busy times, you may receive a more budget-friendly quote. 

Fuel Prices

Another important component that influences car shipping prices is the cost of fuel. As we all know, fuel prices fluctuate, directly impacting overall transportation expenses. 

Try to keep an eye on gas prices at the pump, as it has a knock-on effect on how much you pay to ship your car. 

This is one factor over which carriers have no control, but it must be factored into the price of auto transport services. 

Modifications

Auto transport trucks come in standard sizes, meaning specific measurements and weight requirements regarding loads. If you want to ship a modified vehicle, it can impact the price of your shipment. 

If your vehicle's weight, length, or height is outside normal parameters, the auto transport provider may have to use specialized equipment or expertise to load it safely. This extra equipment and expertise come with a higher price. 

Modified vehicles or vehicles with low ground clearance often require lift gates when loading onto a transport trailer. Lift gates are typically only found on enclosed car shipping carriers, which are more expensive than open transport carriers. 

Personal Items in the Vehicle

A question we’re commonly asked here at SGT Auto Transport is whether personal items can be shipped along with the vehicle. Generally, not all auto transport companies allow this, but if you ship a vehicle with us, you can include up to 100 lbs of personal items free of charge (some restrictions apply). 

If you want to take advantage of this perk, it’s vital that you weigh any items carefully. Anything over the allotted weight is subject to additional costs.

Other Factors That Affect Car Shipping Prices

Let’s look at a few more factors that affect the price you pay for shipping your vehicle:

• Shipping Distance: Moving your vehicle one state over will be a lot cheaper than moving it from New York to Nevada.
• Vehicle Size: Bigger vehicles, such as trucks, cost a little more to ship than smaller vehicles, such as compact cars.
• Open vs. Enclosed Shipping: Open car transport is the most common shipping method and is generally recommended for most auto transport, especially if you want to ship on a budget. Enclosed shipping comes with a 40% to 50% price hike, but it’s recommended if you’re moving an expensive vehicle as it will be completely protected in an enclosed trailer. 
• Drop-off and Pick-up Points: Major metropolitan areas and big parking lots make it easy for trucks to load and unload vehicles, which reduces the price compared to hard-to-reach and more rural areas.   

Tips to Save on Car Shipping Costs

Shipping your car doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some practical tips to help you save on car shipping costs. 

• Plan Ahead and Book Early: Avoid last-minute bookings to secure better rates and availability.
• Choose Open Transport: Opt for open transport instead of enclosed transport if your car doesn't require extra protection.
• Consider Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping: This option can be cheaper than door-to-door service, though it requires you to drop off and pick up your vehicle at designated terminals.
• Be Flexible with Dates: Shipping companies may offer lower rates if you can be flexible with your pickup and delivery dates.
• Look for Discounts and Promotions: Some companies offer discounts for military personnel, students or seasonal promotions.
• Compare Multiple Quotes: Get quotes from several shipping companies to find the best deal.
• Opt for Economy Shipping: If time is not critical, choosing a slower shipping option can save you money.  

Following these tips can make car shipping more affordable without compromising quality and service.

We hope you found the introduction to the factors that affect car shipping prices informative and the tips for saving on car shipping useful and insightful. Whether you’re planning a move, purchasing a vehicle from out of state, or need to transport your car for any other reason, keeping these strategies in mind can help you save money and reduce stress.

Remember, when you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly, and trusted car shipping service, SGT Auto Transport is here to help. Get in touch with us for a hassle-free quote and experience the ease of professional car shipping.