Snowbird Season: Shipping Your Car to Florida
The Annual Snowbird Migration
Every fall, millions of Americans head south to escape harsh winter weather. If you're a snowbird heading to Florida (or Arizona), shipping your vehicle is often smarter — and sometimes cheaper — than driving.
Why Ship Instead of Drive?
Save Time
A drive from New York to Florida takes 18-20 hours one way. That's two full days of driving each way, plus hotel stays, meals, and gas.
Save Wear on Your Car
A 1,200-mile drive puts significant mileage on your vehicle. For newer cars or luxury vehicles, this added mileage can affect resale value.
Avoid Winter Road Hazards
Driving through mid-Atlantic states in November or December means risking snow, ice, and dangerous road conditions.
Best Time to Book
Snowbird season runs from October through January for southbound shipments, and March through May for the return trip north.
Pro Tips for Timing:
- Book 3-4 weeks early during peak season (October-November)
- Avoid the week of Thanksgiving — prices spike and carriers are limited
- January often has slightly lower rates than October-November
- Return trips in April tend to have the best availability
Typical Snowbird Routes and Costs
| Route | Open Transport | Enclosed | |-------|---------------|----------| | NY → South FL | $850–$1,150 | $1,300–$1,700 | | NJ → Central FL | $800–$1,100 | $1,200–$1,600 | | MA → South FL | $900–$1,200 | $1,350–$1,800 | | IL → South FL | $750–$1,050 | $1,100–$1,500 | | MI → South FL | $800–$1,100 | $1,200–$1,600 |
Prices reflect 2026 snowbird season estimates.
Cost-Saving Tips for Snowbirds
- Book early — last-minute shipments cost more during peak season
- Be flexible with dates — a 5-7 day pickup window gets better rates than a specific date
- Ship before the rush — late September or early October often has better pricing
- Consider terminal pickup if you're near a major city — it can save $50-$100
Preparing Your Vehicle
Follow our complete vehicle preparation checklist before your seasonal shipment. Key snowbird-specific tips:
- Remove winter items (scrapers, salt bags) before shipping south
- Check antifreeze/coolant — your car will transition between climates
- Ensure A/C works before shipping to Florida
Ship with Confidence
Rastaman Logistics has shipped thousands of vehicles on snowbird routes. We know the carriers, the timing, and the routes that deliver the best experience.