Snowbird Car Shipping 2026: How to Ship Your Car to Florida This Winter

Every fall, thousands of snowbirds from Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Ohio and New England head south to Florida, Arizona and Texas for the winter. Instead of spending two or three days on I-95, more of them are shipping their car and flying down. Here’s everything you need to know about snowbird car shipping this season.

When Is Snowbird Season?

• Heading south: October through December (peak is late October to mid-November and right before the holidays)
• Heading north: March through May (peak is April)

During these windows, demand on north–south routes jumps, and carriers fill up fast. Booking early is the single best thing you can do.

How Much Does Snowbird Car Shipping Cost?

For a standard sedan on an open carrier, typical ranges are:

Route	Approx. Distance	Typical Open Carrier Range
Pennsylvania → Florida	~1,000–1,200 mi	$900 – $1,300
New York / New Jersey → Florida	~1,000–1,250 mi	$900 – $1,350
Ohio / Michigan → Florida	~1,100–1,300 mi	$950 – $1,400
Northeast → Arizona	~2,200–2,500 mi	$1,300 – $1,800

Peak-week prices can run higher. Enclosed transport is typically 30–60% more. Get your exact snowbird quote.

Why Snowbirds Ship Instead of Drive

• Skip 2–3 days of driving on crowded I-95 and I-75.
• Save on hotels, gas and meals, which often add up to $500 or more each way.
• Less wear and tear: no 2,000+ extra miles on your car each year.
• Fly in a few hours and have your car waiting at your winter home.
• Ship two cars at once if you keep a vehicle in both places. Just ask for a multi-car quote.

Step-by-Step: How Snowbird Car Shipping Works With Roadline Carriers

1. Get a quote. Tell us your pickup and drop-off addresses, vehicle and preferred dates.
2. Book your spot. We assign a vetted, insured carrier running your route.
3. Pickup at your door. The driver inspects your car with you and records its condition on the Bill of Lading.
4. Your car travels south while you fly or drive another vehicle.
5. Delivery to your winter home. Inspect the car, sign and grab your keys.

Snowbird Shipping Tips

• Book 2–4 weeks ahead in October and November.
• Book your spring return now, since April northbound routes fill up just as fast.
• Leave about a quarter tank of gas and remove personal items and toll transponders.
• Consider enclosed transport for luxury, classic or convertible cars.
• Have someone available at pickup and delivery if you can’t be there.

Shipping from Pennsylvania? See our Pennsylvania to Florida car shipping page for routes, transit times and typical prices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to ship a car from Pennsylvania to Florida?

Usually 2–5 days once the car is picked up, depending on exact cities and the carrier’s schedule.

Can I put luggage in my car?

Carriers generally limit personal items, and those items aren’t covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance. Ask us about limits when you book.

Can you ship my car back north in the spring?

Yes, and many customers book their round trip at the same time so they’re set for spring.