The holiday season keeps everyone busy from individuals to businesses, and the same goes for the car shipping industry. The holiday season is always a busy time of the year. It is when you might find yourself needing to ship your car. This could include moving to a new home, purchasing a new vehicle, or shipping your car for any other reason. During this time, it’s important to know whether car shipping services are available for you to hire. Because of increased demand, limited capacity, and other seasonal fluctuations, you can avoid delays in your vehicle’s arrival by booking your car shipping early. In this blog post, we will discuss all about car shipping during holidays and how to plan for it accordingly.
How Holiday Car Shipping Differs From Other Times
The auto transport peak season falls during the holidays from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. There are a few reasons why there is less availability for car shipping at this time.
During the holiday season, many people require transport services. Whether it’s a move, travel, or a new car purchase, the demand for auto transport goes up. Due to many customers requesting vehicle shipping at once, the availability of transporters can be limited.
Trucks operating on altered holiday schedules: Fewer trucks and delays are likely as drivers and transport companies run on altered holiday schedules. Because of this, the shipping of goods would not happen in a timely manner as it would otherwise during the non-holidays. This is because the carriers would not be operating as regular.
As winter weather affects transport at times, inclement weather like snow, ice and cold temperatures slow transport times and make routes more difficult for transport staff to manage. In some places, the weather does influence availability of carriers.
Considering these factors, the car shipping availability during the holiday season and booking as early as possible may ease the stress of having to ship your car in this busy time.
Thinking Ahead for Holiday Shipping of Cars
The secret to successful auto shipping during the holidays is to plan ahead. By following this guide, you can expect your vehicle to arrive on time.
Make Sure to Plan Your Car Shipping Early
When you book your car shipping service earlier, the high chance of getting a spot during the festive period increases. To get the best deal, it is wise to book at least 3-4 weeks from the pickup date. It allows the shipping company time to schedule your transport and ensure they have adequate resources to deal with your vehicle in a timely manner.
The earlier you book your favourite carrier, the better. With the holiday season approaching, carriers may fully book up. Booking ahead of time allows your desired shipment dates and protects you from getting delays due to limited availability.
When you schedule your vehicle’s shipping well in advance, you stand a better chance of getting priority scheduling. This is particularly beneficial if you want enclosed transport.
Have flexible pick-up and delivery dates
Booking early is helpful, but making flexible pick up and deliveries can also help you sidestep inconvenient delays during the holiday season. Transport companies may not be available on some days due to scheduling conflicts, holidays or weather issues. Being flexible with the pickup or delivery time of your vehicle increases your chances of getting on the carrier.
Try to avoid flying on big holidays such as Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Many transport companies have limited schedule during these hour.
Selecting the Best Shipping Option for the Holidays
With the right choice of shipping, you will benefit from safety and efficiency when delivering your vehicle during the holidays. So, choose sensibly! When you want to transport cars, you have a choice of two broad types – enclosed and open transport. Each of these techniques has its very own benefits and advantages.
The most popular choice for auto shipping is open shipping. Also, it is also the least expensive choice. It involves your vehicle being transport on an open carrier with a bunch of other vehicles. It’s economical but might not be suitable for your high-value, high-style or classic car. In winter months, the weather may affect your vehicle’s exterior, avoiding it might not be the best idea.
If you want to play it safe, you may wish to use enclosed transport. Your car will be transported in a fully enclosed carrier which will stop rain, snow, rocks and other road debris from damaging your vehicle during transport. This is for luxury exotic, vintage, or if you think weather will be a problem in winter months.
Either way, both are safe options, but you should consider enclosed transport if you’re shipping a luxury or delicate vehicle during the busy holiday season for added peace of mind.4. Examine the Weather Prediction.
When the weather turns, your last worry is likely having your car shipping delayed owing to snowstorms, ice, or other inclement weather conditions. Even if a car transport company makes every best effort, sometimes poor weather can slow down the shipping or make some routes of the trajectory impassable.
Be aware: Monitor the weather condition and forecasts of the pickup location and the drop location. If bad weather is expecte, speak to your carrier so that alternate arrangements can be made or plan for delays.
If your transport gets delayed due to weather conditions, be patient and allow the extra time needed. Shipping companies will make every effort to keep you informed about your shipment status.
Be aware of potential delays and talk with your forwarder
Transport companies will likely see delays during the holiday season owing to increased demand, weather conditions and holiday schedules. it’s relevant that you have realistic expectations. likewise, you must not have unforeseen delays.
It is key to stay in touch with your shipping company for communication regarding your vehicle’s status. Several transport companies have tracking services so that you can track your vehicle in real-time.
Stay adaptable and prepared; delays can always happen, but the flexibility and a backup plan in case of a delay will help ease the shipping process during the holidays season.
Reserve your spot for car shipping during festival season
Shipping a car can be problematic during the holiday season. However, with care and a little leeway, one can manage the situation to get the job done right. To avoid issues in shipping, advance booking, appropriate shipping choice, knowledge of weather forecasts, and communicating with the shipping company go a long way in aiding the timely delivery of goods.
The importance of reliable car shipping is being emphasized even more during the holidays, which is why 1A Car Shipping understands your needs. The team here guarantees personalize service for the vehicle being transported no matter the season. We also ensure safe delivery. You can get your holiday season car shipping availability with a free quote. So contact us today!
