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EZ Auto Movers

Snowbird Car
Shipping

Seasonal vehicle transport for your annual migration — New York to Florida, Illinois to Florida, California to Arizona, and every major snowbird corridor nationwide.

Door-to-door residential pickup and delivery. FMCSA-licensed carriers. Open and enclosed transport. Book early for peak October–November and March–April season.

Get a Snowbird Shipping Quote →☎ (888) 508-2175
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Quick Answers

Snowbird Car Shipping — At a Glance

What is snowbird car shipping?

Shipping your vehicle south for winter (Florida, Arizona, Texas) instead of driving it. You fly; your car follows. Ship south in fall, return north in spring.

When should I book?

Book 3–6 weeks ahead for October–November southbound peak. For spring return, book 2–4 weeks before your target date. Earlier booking = better pricing and availability.

How much does it cost?

NY to FL: $850–$1,450. IL to FL: $850–$1,300. CA to AZ: $500–$850. WA to AZ: $700–$1,200. Pricing is higher during Oct–Nov and Mar–Apr peak season.

What are the most popular routes?

NY/NJ→FL · IL→FL · MI/OH→FL · CA→AZ · WA→AZ · PA→FL · MN→AZ · MA/CT→FL — all major snowbird corridors served nationwide.

Open or enclosed transport?

Open transport is right for most daily-driver snowbird vehicles. Choose enclosed for luxury cars, convertibles, or collector vehicles you want fully sealed from weather.

Can I leave items in the car?

Small amounts of personal items in the trunk are tolerated at owner's risk. Remove valuables, documents, medications, and electronics. Carrier insurance covers the vehicle, not personal property.

How long does it take?

NY/NJ to FL: 2–5 days. IL to FL: 3–5 days. CA to AZ: 1–3 days. WA to AZ: 3–6 days. Add 1–5 days for carrier dispatch after booking.

Delivery to retirement communities?

Yes — door-to-door residential delivery including gated communities and HOA areas. Large carriers may deliver to the community entrance when narrow roads prevent access further in.

Overview

About Snowbird Car Shipping

Every year, millions of retirees and seasonal residents follow a predictable seasonal migration — south in the fall when northern winters close in, and back north in the spring when warmer weather returns. These seasonal migrants, called snowbirds, have made annual car shipping one of the most reliable segments of the US auto transport industry. Instead of driving 1,000–2,500 miles twice a year — through weather, across multiple states, over multiple days — snowbirds ship their vehicle and fly to their destination.

Who are snowbirds? The classic snowbird profile is a retired couple in their 60s, 70s, or 80s who own a home in a northern state (New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania) and a second home or condo in a warmer southern state (Florida, Arizona, Texas). They spend November through April in the south and May through October in the north — a pattern that follows the most comfortable weather in both climates. Many snowbirds have done this for 5, 10, or 20+ consecutive years, making car shipping as routine as booking their flight.

Why ship instead of drive? For retirees, the equation has shifted. A 1,300-mile drive from Chicago to South Florida takes 2–3 days each way, involves highway fatigue, overnight hotel stays, weather risk, and fuel costs. For couples where one or both partners have limited mobility, health considerations, or simply prefer not to do long highway drives twice a year, shipping the car and flying makes every aspect of the snowbird lifestyle more comfortable. The cost of shipping a vehicle south is often comparable to the fuel, hotels, and incidentals of driving — with none of the physical fatigue.

Seasonal migration patterns and timing. Southbound snowbird season peaks in October and November — this is when carrier demand on major corridors (NY to FL, IL to FL, MI to FL, CA to AZ) reaches its annual high. Many snowbirds want to be south before Thanksgiving, and the October–November window is the most competitive period for carrier availability and pricing. Northbound snowbird season peaks in March and April as snowbirds return home ahead of summer. May brings a second northbound wave. July and August are the quietest months on snowbird corridors — prices are at their lowest and carrier availability is highest.

Dual-home logistics. Snowbirds with two residences have developed sophisticated seasonal logistics systems over the years. Most have specific carriers or brokers they trust after years of use. They know to book early, know their preferred carrier type, and know exactly what their vehicle needs before pickup. EZ Auto Movers serves both first-time snowbird shippers (who need more guidance on the process) and experienced annual snowbirds (who want efficient, reliable repeat service at a competitive rate).

Popular snowbird destinations. Florida is the undisputed #1 snowbird destination — Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Palm Beach, Sarasota, Naples, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, The Villages, and the Gulf Coast draw snowbirds from every northeastern and Midwestern state. Arizona is the #2 destination, especially for West Coast and Midwest snowbirds — Scottsdale, Sun City, Sun City West, Mesa, Tempe, and the broader Phoenix metro are major retirement and snowbird communities. Texas is popular with Midwesterners — the Rio Grande Valley (McAllen, Harlingen, Brownsville) and Texas Gulf Coast serve a large seasonal population. Nevada (Las Vegas area) and Southern California (Palm Springs, San Diego) attract smaller snowbird populations from the Pacific Northwest.

Route Authority

Major Snowbird Car Shipping Routes

Every major seasonal migration corridor — East Coast, Midwest, and West Coast — with pricing, transit times, seasonality, and booking guidance.

New York → Florida Snowbird Shipping

~1,280 mi2–5 days$850–$1,450

Peak season: Oct–Nov / Mar–Apr

Highest-volume snowbird corridor in the country. Metro NYC, Long Island, Westchester, and upstate NY all served. South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca, Palm Beach) and Central Florida (Orlando, The Villages) are top destinations. Book 5–6 weeks ahead for Oct–Nov moves.

New Jersey → Florida Snowbird Shipping

~1,250 mi2–4 days$800–$1,300

Peak season: Oct–Nov / Mar–Apr

One of the top-5 snowbird routes nationally. Strong carrier network on this corridor. North Jersey, South Jersey, and Shore communities all served. Excellent availability even during peak season due to high carrier volume.

Pennsylvania → Florida Snowbird Shipping

~1,100 mi2–4 days$800–$1,200

Peak season: Oct–Nov / Mar–May

Philadelphia metro, Pittsburgh, and Lehigh Valley are major PA snowbird origins. Central and South Florida destinations. Moderate peak-season demand — book 3–4 weeks ahead for Oct–Nov.

Connecticut → Florida Snowbird Shipping

~1,350 mi3–5 days$850–$1,400

Peak season: Oct–Nov / Apr–May

Fairfield County and New Haven area snowbirds primarily target South Florida (Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Palm Beach). Book 4–5 weeks ahead during peak southbound season.

Massachusetts → Florida Snowbird Shipping

~1,500 mi3–5 days$900–$1,450

Peak season: Oct–Nov / Apr–May

Boston area and Cape Cod snowbirds are major Florida contributors. Longer distance means booking 4–6 weeks ahead is especially important for peak Oct–Nov moves.

Maryland → Florida Snowbird Shipping

~1,050 mi2–4 days$700–$1,150

Peak season: Oct–Nov / Mar–Apr

Baltimore and DC-area Maryland snowbirds. Shorter distance keeps costs lower. Well-served corridor with good carrier availability. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for peak season.

Virginia → Florida Snowbird Shipping

~900 mi2–4 days$700–$1,100

Peak season: Nov / Apr

Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Virginia Beach snowbirds. One of the shorter East Coast snowbird routes — this shows in pricing. Good carrier availability year-round.

Maine → Florida Snowbird Shipping

~1,600 mi4–6 days$950–$1,550

Peak season: Oct–Nov / Apr–May

Portland and coastal Maine snowbirds face longer distances to Florida. Maine winters are harsh, driving strong demand. Book 5–6 weeks ahead for fall moves.

NY → FL Route Guide IL → FL Route Guide CA → FL Route Guide
Process

How Snowbird Car Shipping Works — 8 Steps

1

Request your snowbird quote

Call (888) 508-2175 or use the online form. Provide your pickup state and city, your destination (Florida city, Arizona area, or other destination), your vehicle details, and your target pickup window. For peak season (October/November southbound, March/April northbound), getting a quote 6 weeks ahead is ideal.

2

Select your seasonal timing

Confirm your target pickup window. A flexible 3–5 day window (rather than a fixed single date) allows carrier matching at better rates and shorter dispatch times. If your target dates fall in peak season, your coordinator will advise on availability and recommend the earliest realistic booking.

3

Carrier assignment

After booking confirmation, a carrier is matched to your shipment within 1–5 business days. You receive the carrier's name, MC number, USDOT number, and driver contact. For expedited snowbird requests (last-minute fall bookings), carrier assignment can happen within 24–72 hours.

4

Pickup scheduling and community coordination

The carrier contacts you 12–24 hours before pickup to confirm the window. If your pickup address is in a gated community, HOA neighborhood, or requires specific access coordination, your coordinator notes this in the shipment details. Pickup is from your home address or the nearest accessible location if large carriers can't navigate your specific street.

5

Vehicle inspection — Bill of Lading signed at pickup

At pickup, you and the carrier walk the vehicle together and document its condition on the Bill of Lading — all existing chips, scratches, and pre-existing areas of note. Photograph the vehicle yourself before the carrier departs. This documentation protects you at delivery.

6

Transit with carrier contact available

Your vehicle travels to the destination. Contact the driver directly for real-time status updates during transit. Transit time ranges from 1–3 days (short routes like CA to AZ) to 5–7 days (long routes like MA to FL or WA to AZ). Weather can add 1–2 days to northern routes in November.

7

Delivery coordination at your snowbird home

The carrier contacts you 24 hours before delivery to confirm the window. For gated community or condominium deliveries, confirm the access procedure with the carrier directly. Your designee (neighbor, building staff, trusted contact) can receive the vehicle if you haven't arrived yet.

8

Inspect, sign, and book the return

Inspect the vehicle at delivery against the pickup BOL before signing. Note any delivery condition questions on the BOL before signing. Many snowbirds book their spring northbound return immediately after the fall southbound delivery — confirming dates early for the spring return is especially worthwhile during high-demand seasons.

Pricing

Snowbird Car Shipping Cost

Snowbird shipping pricing is dynamic — driven by distance, route demand, and seasonal timing. Here are realistic price ranges for major corridors and the key factors that affect your specific quote.

RouteOpen TransportEnclosed TransportPeak Season Premium
New York → Florida$850–$1,450$1,450–$2,300Oct–Nov / Mar–Apr
New Jersey → Florida$800–$1,300$1,300–$2,150Oct–Nov / Mar–Apr
Illinois → Florida$850–$1,300$1,400–$2,200Oct–Nov / Mar–May
Michigan → Florida$800–$1,250$1,300–$2,100Oct–Nov / Mar–May
California → Arizona$500–$850$850–$1,300Oct–Dec / Mar–Apr
Washington → Arizona$700–$1,200$1,200–$1,900Oct–Dec / Mar–May

Distance and route

The primary cost driver. Longer routes cost more. CA→AZ is 370–750 miles; MA→FL is 1,500+ miles.

Seasonal demand and timing

Oct–Nov southbound and Mar–Apr northbound are peak seasons with 15–30% higher pricing on top corridors.

How far ahead you book

Booking 4–6 weeks ahead during peak season secures better pricing and carrier availability than last-minute booking.

Pickup date flexibility

A 3–5 day pickup window reduces pricing versus a fixed date — carriers can route more efficiently with flexible windows.

Open vs. enclosed transport

Enclosed carriers cost 40–80% more than open. Most snowbird daily-drivers travel open.

Vehicle size

Standard cars and SUVs: standard rate. Oversized SUVs and full-size trucks: small surcharge. Lifted vehicles: quote required.

Car Shipping Cost Guide Shipping Calculator
Transport Type

Open vs. Enclosed Snowbird Transport

FactorOpen TransportEnclosed Transport
Cost$500–$1,450 typical$850–$2,300 typical
Weather protectionExposed to elementsFully sealed — no weather or debris
Best forEveryday cars, SUVs, standard sedansLuxury, classic, convertible, high-value
Carrier availabilityWide — faster dispatchNarrower — longer lead time
Snowbird recommendationMost seasonal movesHigh-value or sensitive vehicles
Transit riskStandard cargo insurance coverageSame insurance, added physical protection
Open Car Shipping Enclosed Car Shipping Classic Car Shipping
For Retirees

Snowbird Car Shipping for Retirees and Seniors

For retirees and seniors, the calculus of the snowbird drive has shifted dramatically. A 1,300-mile drive that was manageable at 55 becomes a different proposition at 70 or 75 — three days of highway driving, interstate traffic, overnight hotels in unfamiliar cities, weather variability, and the fatigue of long-distance driving take a real physical toll. Shipping the vehicle and flying — or traveling more comfortably by other means — makes the seasonal migration a pleasure rather than an ordeal.

Medical and physical comfort considerations. Many snowbirds mention that avoiding the long drive is as much about health management as it is about convenience. Back problems, fatigue, reduced night vision, and other age-related conditions make 1,000–1,500 mile drives increasingly inadvisable. Shipping the car allows retirees to travel by air in 3–4 hours rather than spending 3 days on the road.

Couples who need separate vehicles. Many snowbird couples fly to their southern destination while one or both vehicles are shipped separately. Some couples ship one vehicle and drive the other — particularly on shorter snowbird routes (Virginia to Florida, Maryland to Florida) where the drive is more manageable. Others ship both vehicles. EZ Auto Movers coordinates multi-vehicle snowbird moves routinely.

Retirement community delivery coordination. Many snowbirds live in active adult communities, country club developments, or gated retirement communities at their southern destination. EZ Auto Movers coordinates with community access requirements — gate codes, visitor procedures, and delivery logistics for communities like The Villages, Century Village, Del Webb communities, Sun City, or Leisure World. Residential door-to-door delivery is standard; the carrier adapts to the community's specific access requirements.

Annual repeat service. Many snowbirds have used the same broker for 5–15 consecutive years. They value consistency, reliability, and knowing the process works. EZ Auto Movers makes it easy to book the same reliable seasonal service year after year — with your vehicle history, preferred addresses, and seasonal timing on file for quick rebooking.

✈️

Avoid the Long Drive

Ship your car and fly — 3 hours versus 3 days. No highway fatigue, no overnight hotels, no weather uncertainty on unfamiliar roads.

🏠

Door-to-Door Service

Your car is picked up from your northern home and delivered to your southern address. No terminals, no drop-off points — residential pickup and delivery standard.

🔄

Round-Trip Coordination

Book the return leg while arranging the fall southbound trip. Seasonal planning locked in for the entire migration cycle — no scrambling in spring.

Seasonal Calendar

Snowbird Shipping — Month-by-Month Planning Guide

AugustOff-peak — Best pricing window

Carrier availability is at its highest. Pricing on major snowbird corridors is at annual lows. Snowbirds who book August pickups for early-fall moves get the best combination of price and availability. Southbound demand hasn't yet started building.

SeptemberPre-season — Book now for October moves

The pre-peak preparation window. If you're targeting an October southbound move, September is the time to book. Demand starts climbing, carrier availability begins tightening on major corridors. Early September is the last window for comfortable booking lead time for October moves.

OctoberPeak southbound season begins

High demand on all major southbound snowbird corridors. NY→FL, IL→FL, MI→FL, WA→AZ all see elevated demand. Carriers on these routes are heavily booked. Book 4–6 weeks before your target October date. Prices at seasonal high. Last-minute October bookings (less than 2 weeks ahead) may face limited availability.

NovemberPeak southbound — highest demand

November is the single highest-demand month on East Coast snowbird corridors. Everyone wants to be south by Thanksgiving. If your target is November, book in September or early October — 5–6 weeks minimum. Expedited dispatch is available for late bookings but costs more.

December–JanuaryPost-peak southbound — stabilizing

Demand moderates after the November rush. Snowbirds who missed the October–November window can often find better pricing and carrier availability in December and January for southbound moves. Pricing is typically 10–20% lower than the October–November peak.

FebruaryQuiet season — Book spring northbound return

The quietest month for snowbird shipping volume. Snowbirds in residence in the south aren't going anywhere yet. This is the ideal time to book the spring northbound return — before March demand begins. Early February booking for a March or April northbound pickup secures good pricing.

MarchPeak northbound season begins

Snowbirds start heading north for spring. March northbound demand builds significantly, particularly on FL→NY, FL→MI, FL→IL, and AZ→WA corridors. Book your northbound return in January or February for comfortable lead time. March pickups booked in March face tight availability.

AprilPeak northbound — spring return rush

April is the peak northbound month — the spring equivalent of November's southbound peak. Snowbirds want to be north by May for summer. Book April northbound moves in February. Last-minute April bookings are difficult on heavily traveled corridors.

MayNorthbound tapering — good pricing

Northbound demand begins to taper as the main spring rush ends. May movers often find better pricing than March–April and more carrier flexibility. A strategic option for snowbirds with scheduling flexibility — waiting until May for the return north saves money.

Preparation

Snowbird Vehicle Preparation Checklist

Wash the exterior

Clean surfaces allow accurate condition documentation at pickup inspection — every chip and scratch is visible and noted on the BOL

Photograph every panel before pickup

All four corners, every body panel, interior, trunk — timestamped photos protect you at delivery

Remove all valuables and documents

Electronics, medications, financial documents, jewelry — carrier insurance covers the vehicle, not personal property

Disable toll transponders

E-ZPass, SunPass, FasTrak — disable or remove them to prevent accidental toll charges during transit through multiple states

Reduce fuel to approximately 1/4 tank

Not empty (carrier needs some fuel to maneuver), not full (weight and safety considerations) — 1/4 tank is ideal

Disable aftermarket alarm systems

Alarms can trip during loading and while on the carrier — disable before pickup to prevent battery drain

Check tire pressure

Properly inflated tires facilitate safe loading on the carrier

Provide a working set of keys

Primary key plus backup if possible — the carrier needs to maneuver the vehicle during loading and unloading

Note community or HOA delivery access details

Gate codes, visitor procedures, community contact — share with your coordinator for the carrier's preparation

Inspect at delivery before signing

Compare delivery condition against your pickup photos and BOL before signing the delivery document

Knowledge Center

Snowbird Car Shipping Knowledge Center

Everything seasonal travelers need to know about shipping their car to Florida, Arizona, Texas, or back north — pricing by corridor, HOA and gated community delivery, and peak-season booking strategy.

1. Pricing & Seasonal Demand2. Booking & Timing3. East Coast & Midwest Routes4. Western & Other Routes5. Pickup, Delivery & Access6. Vehicle Prep & Documents7. Transport Types & Special Vehicles
1

Pricing & Seasonal Demand

6 topics
Snowbird car shipping is a seasonal auto transport service for people — primarily retirees — who split their year between a northern home state and a warmer southern destination such as Florida, Arizona, Texas, or California. Instead of driving 1,000–2,500+ miles twice a year, snowbirds ship their vehicle via open or enclosed carrier, fly to their destination, and find their car waiting. The term 'snowbird' refers to the pattern of migrating south in the fall to avoid winter and returning north in the spring — matching the migratory path of many birds.
Yes — peak snowbird season (October–November southbound; March–April northbound) brings higher prices on major snowbird corridors due to concentrated demand. Prices on routes like New York to Florida and Illinois to Florida can be 15–30% higher during peak season compared to the same routes in summer or winter. Booking 4–6 weeks ahead of peak season and maintaining pickup date flexibility (a 5-day window versus a fixed date) helps secure the most competitive pricing even during high-demand periods.
Snowbird shipping pricing is driven by supply-demand dynamics on specific corridors during specific time windows. When everyone on the East Coast wants to go to Florida in October and November, carrier capacity on northbound-to-southbound routes fills up and prices rise. When carriers return north in spring, they're often partially empty, which creates more competitive pricing on northbound routes. Off-peak snowbird shipping (September, February, or late May) on the same routes can be meaningfully less expensive than peak-season moves. Building flexibility in your dates (a 3–5 day pickup window) also helps carriers route efficiently and can reduce your quote.
The most affordable snowbird routes are shorter-distance moves: Virginia to Florida (~900 miles, $700–$1,100), Maryland to Florida (~1,050 miles, $800–$1,150), Pennsylvania to Florida (~1,100 miles, $800–$1,200), and California to Arizona (370–750 miles, $500–$850). The most expensive snowbird routes by distance are Pacific Northwest (Washington/Oregon to Arizona, 1,400–1,600 miles), New England (Maine/Massachusetts to Florida, 1,500–1,600 miles), and Minnesota/Wisconsin to Florida (1,400–1,600 miles).
Call (888) 508-2175 and ask about available promotions when requesting your quote. Discount availability varies by route, season, and current promotions. While there is no universal published senior discount, EZ Auto Movers works to find competitive pricing for all customers, including the retiree community. Booking during off-peak windows (September versus October, or May versus April) naturally results in lower pricing than peak-season rates.
Yes — you can book both the southbound and northbound legs when arranging your snowbird transport. Each leg is priced independently based on prevailing rates at the time of each move. Round-trip bookings are not a single transaction — they are two separate shipments coordinated to fit your seasonal schedule. Booking the return trip in advance (during fall, for a spring return) ensures your dates are noted and allows you to get a preliminary price estimate, though the final rate may adjust closer to the pickup date.
2

Booking & Timing

5 topics
Book your southbound (northward-to-south) snowbird move 3–6 weeks before your target pickup date. October and November are the absolute peak months for southbound snowbird volume — carriers on major routes (New York to Florida, New Jersey to Florida, Illinois to Florida, Michigan to Florida) fill up fast. Waiting until October to book a November pickup can mean limited carrier availability, longer dispatch times, and higher pricing. For October pickup, book in late August or September. For November pickup, book in October. Booking early also locks in better pricing before peak-season surcharges.
Book your northbound return (Florida or Arizona back north) 2–4 weeks before your target date. Northbound demand spikes in March and April as snowbirds return home for the summer. May has more moderate demand as the wave subsides. For a March or April pickup, book in February or early March. The northbound direction can sometimes be priced slightly differently from the southbound — quote both directions separately to compare. Round-trip bookings are possible but each leg is priced and dispatched independently.
For October pickup, book in late August or September — 5–6 weeks ahead is ideal. For November pickup, book in October — 3–4 weeks ahead minimum. October and November are the highest-demand months on every major southbound snowbird corridor. Carriers fill quickly, and the snowbirds who book earliest get the best combination of carrier availability, pickup date preference, and competitive pricing. Don't wait until October to start shopping for a November move.
Contact your EZ Auto Movers coordinator as soon as your dates change. During peak snowbird season, last-minute rescheduling (within 1–2 weeks of pickup) can be difficult due to carrier commitments and high demand on the corridor. The more lead time you give when changing dates, the smoother the adjustment. If a carrier has already been dispatched and is en route to your pickup location, a rebooking fee may apply. Always communicate date changes early rather than waiting to see if the situation resolves itself.
Yes — this is the standard snowbird shipping approach. The vast majority of snowbirds fly to their destination and have their vehicle shipped separately. You fly, your car follows. Plan for the vehicle to arrive 3–10 days after your arrival depending on the distance and dispatch timing. If you need a vehicle immediately upon arrival, consider renting for the first few days to bridge the gap. Communicate your arrival date to your coordinator so delivery timing can be optimized relative to your arrival.
3

East Coast & Midwest Routes

6 topics
New York to Florida snowbird car shipping typically costs $850–$1,450 for open transport, with prices at the higher end of that range during October–November peak season. The route is approximately 1,280 miles. Transit time is typically 2–5 days. Enclosed transport on this route costs $1,450–$2,300. Exact pricing depends on your specific pickup and delivery zip codes (metro NYC versus upstate New York or Long Island), the exact Florida destination (South Florida versus Central or North Florida), and how far in advance you book. Booking 4–6 weeks ahead during peak season secures the best available rate.
New Jersey to Florida snowbird shipping runs approximately $800–$1,300 for open transport depending on season and timing. New Jersey to South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton) is roughly 1,250–1,350 miles. Central Florida (Orlando, The Villages) is slightly shorter. NJ to FL is one of the highest-volume snowbird corridors in the country with excellent carrier availability, keeping prices competitive even during peak season. Book 3–5 weeks ahead for October–November moves.
Illinois to Florida snowbird car shipping costs approximately $850–$1,300 for open transport. The Chicago area to South Florida is roughly 1,370 miles; to Central Florida approximately 1,200 miles. Illinois is among the top-5 snowbird origin states for Florida-bound seasonal moves. Carrier availability on this corridor is strong. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for fall southbound moves, 2–3 weeks for spring northbound returns.
Michigan to Florida snowbird shipping runs approximately $800–$1,200 for open transport, with peak-season pricing at the higher end. Detroit to South Florida is approximately 1,370 miles; to Central Florida approximately 1,200 miles. Michigan is a top snowbird origin state given its harsh winters. Strong carrier availability on this corridor. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for fall southbound moves.
The most common snowbird origin states are: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maryland, Virginia (East Coast); Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Indiana, Minnesota (Midwest); Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Utah (West Coast). The most common snowbird destination states are: Florida (by far the most popular — South Florida, Central Florida, and Southwest Florida), Arizona (Phoenix metro, Scottsdale, Tucson), Texas (South Texas, Gulf Coast), Nevada (Las Vegas area), and California (Palm Springs, San Diego for Pacific Northwest snowbirds).
Top snowbird routes by volume: (1) New York/New Jersey to Florida — the highest-volume snowbird corridor in the country. (2) Michigan/Ohio to Florida — major Midwest-to-Southeast corridor. (3) Illinois/Wisconsin to Florida — Chicago area and Wisconsin snowbirds to Florida. (4) California to Arizona — Los Angeles, Bay Area, and Southern California to Phoenix metro. (5) Washington/Oregon to Arizona — Pacific Northwest to Scottsdale and Sun City. (6) Pennsylvania to Florida — Philadelphia area and Pennsylvania snowbirds to Florida. (7) Minnesota to Arizona — Twin Cities snowbirds to Phoenix/Scottsdale (preferred over Florida for many Minnesotans). (8) Massachusetts/Connecticut to Florida — New England snowbirds to Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Sarasota.
4

Western & Other Routes

6 topics
California to Arizona snowbird shipping costs approximately $500–$850 for open transport — one of the more affordable snowbird routes given the shorter distance (Los Angeles to Phoenix is roughly 370 miles; San Francisco to Phoenix approximately 750 miles). This is a major West Coast snowbird corridor for California residents wintering in Scottsdale, Mesa, Sun City, and other Phoenix-area retirement communities. Transit time is typically 1–3 days. Book 2–4 weeks ahead during October–December peak.
Washington State to Arizona snowbird car shipping costs approximately $700–$1,200 for open transport. Seattle to Phoenix is roughly 1,420 miles; transit time 3–6 days. The Pacific Northwest to Arizona corridor is a major West Coast snowbird migration path for residents of Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for fall southbound moves to the Phoenix/Scottsdale area.
Yes — northbound snowbird returns (Florida to New York, Arizona to Washington, Florida to Michigan, Florida to Illinois, etc.) are fully available. The northbound direction in spring (March–May) is the second major snowbird shipping season. Carrier availability on northbound routes is excellent because carriers need to reposition north after delivering southbound loads. Northbound pricing in March–May is comparable to southbound pricing in October–November, though specific route pricing depends on current demand.
Yes — Texas is a major snowbird destination, particularly South Texas (Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, Harlingen, Brownsville, Corpus Christi) and the Gulf Coast area. Many Midwest snowbirds (Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas) prefer Texas to Florida. New York and New Jersey snowbirds with Texas connections also use this route. Texas snowbird routes operate on the same seasonal demand patterns as Florida routes — October–December southbound, March–May northbound.
Yes — Minnesota to Arizona is a major West Coast-adjacent snowbird corridor. Many Minnesotans prefer Arizona (Scottsdale, Sun City, Mesa, Tempe) over Florida due to the dry desert climate and shorter travel distance. Minneapolis to Phoenix is approximately 1,700 miles; transit time approximately 4–7 days. This route is active October–December southbound and March–May northbound. Book 3–4 weeks ahead for peak-season southbound moves.
Yes — Missouri to Texas is a Midwest snowbird route with year-round carrier availability. Missouri snowbirds often choose South Texas (Rio Grande Valley) or the Texas Gulf Coast for winter. Kansas City or St. Louis to South Texas is approximately 700–900 miles; transit 2–4 days. Book 2–3 weeks ahead for fall snowbird season.
5

Pickup, Delivery & Access

8 topics
Yes, with coordination. Gated retirement communities and HOA communities are a standard part of snowbird delivery logistics. For gated access, you (or a community contact) must provide the carrier with the gate code, visitor access procedure, or arrange for the gate to be opened during the delivery window. Large car carriers (multi-car trailers) cannot maneuver inside some retirement community layouts — in these cases, delivery is made at the community entrance or a nearby safe legal unloading area, and the owner or community staff drives the vehicle to the residence. Your coordinator at EZ Auto Movers will note community access details in the shipment so the carrier arrives prepared.
Yes, with similar coordination. For high-rise condominiums and apartments in South Florida, the carrier delivers to a street-level meeting point near the building — not to a specific floor or parking structure. For snowbirds in dense South Florida areas (Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton), delivery coordination means meeting the carrier at the building's street-accessible drop-off area or a nearby parking lot. This is standard practice and expected — your delivery point should be somewhere a large vehicle can legally park to unload.
Large car-hauler trailers cannot navigate into all residential areas — particularly tight streets in older neighborhoods, dead-end cul-de-sacs with insufficient turnaround space, or narrow private roads in HOA communities. In these cases, the carrier will meet you at the nearest safe legal unloading point — a nearby parking lot, a wider street, or community entrance. This is standard in the auto transport industry and is not an inconvenience unique to your shipment. Your coordinator will discuss any known access challenges for your specific addresses.
HOA community access depends on the specific community's rules and the carrier's vehicle. Many large car-carrier trailers cannot enter residential HOA communities due to size restrictions on roads and turns. Standard practice is delivery to the HOA community entrance or a nearby safe meeting point. The driver contacts you in advance to coordinate the specific delivery location. For pickup in an HOA community, the same applies — you may need to drive to a meeting point near the entrance or along the main community road.
Yes — some snowbirds prefer to have a neighbor, building manager, or community contact receive the vehicle. Your designee (any trusted adult you authorize) can receive the vehicle and sign the delivery Bill of Lading on your behalf. This is common in retirement communities where snowbirds have established neighbors or community contacts who can accept delivery. Confirm with your EZ Auto Movers coordinator who will receive the vehicle and provide their contact information to the carrier.
Yes — door-to-door residential pickup and delivery is the standard snowbird shipping service. The carrier comes to your home address in the north and delivers to your home address in the south. The only exception is when access to your specific address is physically impossible for a large carrier (see the gated community and HOA questions above) — in those cases, the delivery point is the nearest accessible location. In most standard residential neighborhoods, direct home pickup and delivery is fully available.
After booking, a carrier is assigned within 1–5 business days (sooner for expedited requests). Once assigned, the carrier's dispatcher contacts you to confirm a pickup window — typically a range of a few hours on a specific day. The driver will also call 30–60 minutes before arrival. For delivery, the driver contacts you the day before or morning of delivery to give a delivery window. Both pickup and delivery windows are coordinated with you or your designee directly.
Before signing the delivery Bill of Lading, carefully inspect the vehicle against the pickup BOL and your pre-pickup photographs. If you notice anything different, note it on the delivery BOL before signing. Do not sign the delivery BOL if you have unresolved condition questions — notes on the BOL are essential for any insurance claim. Contact EZ Auto Movers immediately if a condition issue is found at delivery. The carrier's FMCSA-required cargo insurance covers transit damage documented on the Bill of Lading.
6

Vehicle Prep & Documents

5 topics
A limited amount of personal property may be left in the vehicle but is strongly discouraged and carries important caveats. Carrier cargo insurance covers the vehicle, not personal items inside. Items left in the vehicle are not tracked, cannot be controlled during transit, and are transported entirely at the owner's risk. Practically, many snowbirds leave seasonal items in the trunk (lighter seasonal clothing, non-fragile items) to avoid shipping costs — the industry generally tolerates up to 50–100 lbs of personal items in the trunk at the owner's risk. Never leave valuables, electronics, documents, medications, or irreplaceable items in the vehicle.
You need: (1) A valid photo ID (driver's license or passport). (2) Vehicle keys. (3) Proof of vehicle insurance (though insurance is not transferred or involved in the transport — it's for your records). (4) Vehicle registration may be requested by some carriers. No additional documentation is required for domestic US snowbird shipments. If someone other than you is releasing the vehicle at pickup or receiving it at delivery, that person needs valid photo ID.
Snowbird vehicle preparation checklist: (1) Wash the exterior so condition can be accurately documented at pickup inspection. (2) Photograph every panel and existing condition — all four corners, all body panels, interior, trunk. (3) Remove valuables — electronics, documents, medications, jewelry. (4) Disable toll transponders (E-ZPass, SunPass, FasTrak) to prevent accidental charges during transit. (5) Reduce fuel to 1/4 tank — not empty, not full. (6) Disable any aftermarket alarm systems. (7) Check tire pressure. (8) Provide a working set of keys. (9) Note any vehicle quirks (non-standard ignition, sensitive sensors) for the carrier. (10) Provide community/HOA delivery access details if applicable.
Yes — once a carrier is assigned, you receive the carrier's direct contact information (driver's cell number and dispatch number). You can call the driver for real-time status updates during transit. Your EZ Auto Movers coordinator is also reachable for status inquiries. There is no automated GPS tracking portal for standard open carrier shipments, but direct carrier contact provides accurate real-time status.
Winter weather can affect transit timelines on snowbird routes, particularly for moves from northern states in November and December when snow and ice affect driving conditions. Transit delays of 1–2 days are possible during significant weather events. This is one more reason to build buffer time into your snowbird move planning — if you need the car before Thanksgiving, ship it in time to allow for potential weather delay. The carrier's insurance remains in effect regardless of weather during transit.
7

Transport Types & Special Vehicles

9 topics
Open transport is appropriate and recommended for the vast majority of snowbird car shipping scenarios — everyday cars, SUVs, minivans, and standard sedans all travel safely on open carriers with proper tie-down systems. Open transport is significantly less expensive than enclosed and has much higher carrier availability, meaning better dispatch times. Enclosed transport is recommended for snowbirds traveling with a luxury vehicle, classic or collector car, convertible (especially sensitive to weather), or any high-value vehicle worth over $50,000. If you're shipping your daily driver to Florida, open transport is the right choice.
Snowbird shipping transit times by major corridor: New York/NJ to South Florida: 2–5 days. Illinois to Florida: 3–5 days. Michigan/Ohio to Florida: 2–4 days. California to Arizona: 1–3 days. Washington/Oregon to Arizona: 3–6 days. Pennsylvania to Florida: 2–4 days. Minnesota to Arizona: 3–6 days. Massachusetts to Florida: 3–5 days. These are transit times after pickup — add dispatch time (1–5 business days for standard, 24–72 hours for expedited) when planning total delivery timing.
Yes — SUVs are among the most common vehicles shipped on snowbird routes. Standard SUVs (Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Tahoe) are routinely transported on open carriers. Oversized SUVs and full-size pickup trucks may carry a small surcharge due to the additional carrier space they occupy. Luxury SUVs are good candidates for enclosed transport if you prefer maximum protection.
Yes — many snowbird households own two vehicles and ship both to the southern destination each fall. Multiple vehicle shipments can be coordinated together, and when the route and timing align, both vehicles can travel on the same carrier, simplifying the logistics. Each vehicle is quoted and tracked separately. Coordinate multi-vehicle snowbird shipments as early as possible during peak season (late August or September for October/November southbound) to ensure availability.
Yes — convertibles are a common snowbird vehicle. For most convertibles in good condition with a properly sealing soft or hard top, open transport is fine and significantly less expensive than enclosed. For vintage or collector convertibles, enclosed transport is strongly recommended to prevent wind and weather exposure to sensitive top mechanisms and paint. Mention that you're shipping a convertible when requesting your quote so the carrier can use appropriate loading equipment.
Yes — classic and collector cars can be shipped for seasonal moves using enclosed transport. Enclosed carriers provide full weather and debris protection appropriate for classic vehicles. Soft-strap tie-down systems protect the undercarriage. Classic car snowbird shipping costs more than standard open transport but provides the protection appropriate for irreplaceable vehicles. See the Enclosed Car Shipping and Classic Car Shipping pages for more details.
Yes — EVs are shipped on snowbird routes using open carriers (most EVs) or enclosed carriers. The EV shipping process is essentially the same as standard vehicles, with one additional consideration: bring the battery charge to 50–70% before pickup (not fully charged, not depleted). EV charging is not available on the carrier, so the battery will be at whatever level it's at for the duration of transit. The vehicle should be drivable under its own power for loading and unloading. See the EV Shipping Service page for more details.
Golf carts can be transported on specialized trailers or flatbed carriers as a separate booking from your primary vehicle. Golf carts are not placed on standard car carriers. Quote your golf cart separately and in advance — golf cart transport is available but has fewer carriers and longer lead times than standard auto transport. Many snowbirds in golf cart communities (The Villages, Sun City, etc.) arrange golf cart shipping separately from their primary vehicle transport.
Some snowbirds choose storage as an alternative to shipping for years when they're not traveling south or when they're flying both ways. EZ Auto Movers specializes in vehicle transport, not vehicle storage. If you need storage combined with transport — for example, storing a vehicle in Florida between seasons rather than shipping it north and back — discuss this with your coordinator. Some carriers and transport partners can facilitate storage-plus-delivery arrangements on select routes.

Snowbird Quote

Book Early — Peak Season Fills Fast

October–November southbound and March–April northbound are peak periods. Book 3–6 weeks ahead for best pricing and carrier availability.

☎ (888) 508-2175Online Quote Form

Quick Pricing Reference

NY/NJ → Florida$800–$1,450
IL → Florida$850–$1,300
MI/OH → Florida$800–$1,250
PA → Florida$800–$1,200
MA/CT → Florida$850–$1,450
CA → Arizona$500–$850
WA/OR → Arizona$700–$1,200
MN → Arizona$900–$1,450

Open transport, standard season. Peak season may be higher. Exact quote required.

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Explore Snowbird Shipping by Region

Every major snowbird corridor has its own dedicated guide with pricing, timing, and booking strategy.

East Coast → Florida

NY, NJ, CT, MA, PA, MD, VA

$700–$1,450

Full guide

Midwest → Florida

IL, MI, OH, WI, IN, MO

$800–$1,300

Full guide

West Coast → Arizona

CA, WA, OR, ID, UT

$500–$1,200

Full guide

→ Florida (All Origins)

Destination hub — all states

All corridors

Full guide

→ Arizona (All Origins)

Phoenix, Scottsdale, Sun City

All corridors

Full guide

→ Texas (All Origins)

Rio Grande Valley, Gulf Coast

All corridors

Full guide

Fall Southbound Guide

Sept–Dec shipping strategy

Peak season guide

Full guide

Spring Return Guide

Mar–May northbound strategy

Return season guide

Full guide

Florida Snowbird Destinations

The Villages

FL

Naples

FL

Boca Raton

FL

Sarasota

FL

Fort Myers

FL

Delray Beach

FL

Palm Beach

FL

Miami

FL

Arizona Snowbird Destinations

Scottsdale

AZ

Sun City

AZ

Mesa

AZ

Phoenix

AZ

Tucson

AZ

Gated Community & HOA Delivery

Many snowbird destinations are in gated retirement communities, HOA-controlled subdivisions, and high-rise condo buildings — all of which require special delivery coordination.

  • Provide gate code or visitor access procedure at booking
  • Large multi-car trailers may not enter — delivery at community entrance is standard
  • Condo buildings in South Florida: street-level meeting point coordinated with driver
  • Golf-cart streets in The Villages: delivery to nearest accessible road
  • Designate a trusted contact to receive the car if you fly ahead

Round-Trip Coordination

Most snowbirds ship both directions — south in fall, north in spring. Here's how to coordinate both legs efficiently:

  • Book fall southbound move first — it's the higher-demand leg
  • Spring return can be booked while you're already in the south
  • Each leg is priced independently at the time of booking
  • Spring return pricing is typically comparable to fall pricing
  • Alert your coordinator to flexible return dates for best pricing
  • Many repeat snowbirds book both legs simultaneously in August

Snowbird Car Shipping — Ship South, Fly Free

Every major snowbird corridor nationwide. Door-to-door residential delivery including retirement communities. Open and enclosed transport. Book early for peak season.

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