At American Car Transporters, one of the most common questions we hear each winter is whether it is safer to ship a car or drive it across the country. For many travelers, especially snowbirds and seasonal movers, the decision comes down to safety, convenience, and protecting their vehicles from harsh road conditions. Driving long distances through snow, sleet, and salt covered highways may sound adventurous, but the risks often outweigh the rewards. Shipping your car eliminates exposure to unpredictable weather, prevents wear and tear, and ensures your vehicle arrives safely and ready to drive.

The Real Risks of Driving North to South in Winter

Winter driving can be challenging even for experienced drivers. Snow covered highways, freezing rain, and icy mountain passes all add layers of complexity that increase accident risks. Every year, millions of travelers experience delays, breakdowns, or weather related issues while driving south for the winter. Even when the driver is careful, the vehicle itself can suffer long term damage from road salt, debris, and temperature changes.

Road Salt and Corrosion

Salt is used on winter roads to prevent ice buildup, but it can quickly damage your vehicle’s undercarriage, brake lines, and paint. Salt buildup accelerates corrosion, leading to rust that spreads over time. Once it sets in, it can cost thousands in repairs and permanently reduce the value of your vehicle. When you choose to ship your car, it remains off the road and protected from these damaging conditions.

Tire and Suspension Wear

Driving through potholes, rough patches, or uneven terrain common in winter can take a toll on your tires and suspension system. Cold temperatures make tires less flexible, increasing the chance of punctures or reduced traction. If you are driving hundreds or even thousands of miles to reach your destination, this added strain can shorten tire life and require maintenance sooner than expected.

Accidents and Road Hazards

Winter driving conditions significantly increase the risk of accidents. Visibility drops, braking distances lengthen, and road surfaces become unpredictable. Even skilled drivers are at risk when other motorists lose control. Snow and ice are responsible for countless accidents each season, many of which involve long distance travelers heading south. Shipping your car through a professional carrier eliminates these hazards entirely.

Mechanical Stress

Cold starts, fluctuating temperatures, and extended highway driving all put added stress on your engine, fluids, and battery. Modern vehicles are reliable, but long drives in freezing conditions can still trigger mechanical issues. Shipping avoids this by letting professionals handle the logistics while your car travels safely inside or on a carrier designed for the journey.

Benefits of Auto Transport During Winter

At American Car Transporters, we make seasonal relocation simple. Instead of driving through unpredictable conditions, you can book professional vehicle transport that keeps your car safe and secure while you fly comfortably to your destination.

1. Safety and Peace of Mind

Shipping your car is the safest way to move it long distances during winter. Your vehicle is loaded carefully, inspected, and transported by trained drivers who operate within federal safety regulations. These professionals understand winter driving conditions and are equipped to navigate them using proper equipment, safety checks, and approved routes.

2. No Road Wear or Added Mileage

Every mile you drive adds wear and reduces resale value. Long winter drives can easily add thousands of miles to your odometer, increasing maintenance costs and accelerating depreciation. Shipping eliminates this problem completely. Your car arrives in the same condition it left, with zero additional mileage.

3. Protection From Salt, Debris, and Weather

When you ship your car, you avoid exposure to salt, slush, gravel, and other road contaminants that can damage your paint and undercarriage. If you choose enclosed transport, your vehicle remains fully sealed inside a protected trailer, safe from all outside elements. Even open carriers keep vehicles above the road surface, away from direct contact with debris and grime.

4. Convenience and Time Savings

Driving long distances can take days or even weeks, depending on your route. Shipping your car saves valuable time so you can focus on your move, travel arrangements, or simply enjoying the season. You can fly to your destination while your car travels safely and efficiently with our professional network of carriers.

5. Reduced Stress and Fatigue

Long winter drives are mentally and physically demanding. Fatigue, delays, and constant weather monitoring can turn a simple trip into a stressful ordeal. Shipping your car removes that burden. With American Car Transporters, you receive updates throughout transit and can relax knowing your vehicle is being handled by professionals.

Open vs Enclosed Shipping for Winter

Choosing between open and enclosed transport depends on your vehicle and personal preferences. Both methods are safe and insured, but they offer different levels of protection.

Open Transport

Open transport is the most common and cost effective option. Your car travels on an open air trailer similar to those used to deliver new vehicles to dealerships. It remains exposed to air but off the road surface, safe from direct salt contact. This method works well for most cars, trucks, and SUVs.

Enclosed Transport

Enclosed transport provides complete coverage from snow, salt, and road debris. Vehicles are placed inside a sealed trailer, making this the preferred choice for luxury, classic, or collector cars. Enclosed shipping offers additional security and keeps the car clean during transit. At American Car Transporters, our enclosed carriers feature soft tie downs, lift gate loading, and professional handling for vehicles that require extra care.

Insurance Protection

Shipping your car with a professional carrier offers peace of mind through insurance coverage that driving cannot provide.

Licensed and Insured Carriers

Every carrier in the American Car Transporters network is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. This ensures that your vehicle is protected throughout its journey. Before loading, the driver performs a detailed inspection and records the car’s condition on the bill of lading. The same process happens upon delivery.

Comprehensive Coverage

Standard carrier insurance covers your vehicle for any damage caused during transport. For high value vehicles, you can request additional coverage for extra protection. This level of safety is unmatched by personal auto insurance when driving through unpredictable winter weather.

Transparent Process

We maintain open communication throughout every step of your shipment. You will receive updates when your car is picked up, while in transit, and upon arrival. Our team verifies insurance details before every booking, so you know exactly what is covered and who is handling your vehicle.

Comparing Cost and Safety

While driving may seem cheaper at first glance, the hidden costs of fuel, lodging, meals, and wear and tear can quickly add up. Add to that the risk of damage or delays caused by weather, and shipping often becomes the smarter long term choice. At American Car Transporters, we provide upfront quotes with no hidden fees, so you can compare options clearly and make an informed decision that balances safety and cost.

Real World Example

Many of our customers from northern states such as New York, Illinois, and Pennsylvania ship their cars to Florida each year instead of driving. They avoid icy highways, winter storms, and mechanical breakdowns along the way. Their vehicles arrive clean, safe, and ready to drive within a few days of their own arrival. These customers often tell us that shipping has become part of their yearly travel routine because it saves time, reduces stress, and keeps their vehicles in top condition.

Environmental Impact

Shipping your car can even be more environmentally responsible than driving. Carriers move multiple vehicles at once, reducing the total fuel used per car compared to individual road trips. Fewer cars traveling long distances means less congestion and lower emissions overall. Professional carriers operate efficiently and maintain their equipment to strict standards, further minimizing environmental impact.

What to Expect With American Car Transporters

From the first call to delivery day, our process is designed for clarity and confidence.
Booking: You will receive a clear quote with no hidden costs, including transport type, insurance, and estimated timeline.
Preparation: We provide detailed instructions on how to prepare your vehicle for pickup.
Pickup: Your driver contacts you before arrival, performs an inspection, and secures your vehicle.
Transit: You receive regular updates on your car’s status while it travels along your route.
Delivery: Upon arrival, you and the driver complete another inspection and sign off on the bill of lading.
Our team remains available for questions before, during, and after the shipment to ensure a seamless experience.

The Bottom Line

When comparing whether to ship or drive your car during winter, safety and practicality both favor professional auto transport. Winter roads present real risks that can affect your safety and your vehicle’s condition. Shipping through American Car Transporters offers complete protection, predictable timing, and transparent communication. You avoid exposure to harsh weather, eliminate long days behind the wheel, and ensure your car arrives in the same condition it left.

Frequently Asked Question

Will transport protect my vehicle from salt and snow damage. Yes. Vehicles transported through American Car Transporters are kept off the road surface, away from salt and debris. Choosing enclosed transport provides complete protection from all weather exposure, making it ideal for high value or classic vehicles traveling during winter.

Get Your Car Shipped Safely This Winter

If you are deciding between driving or shipping your car for the season, let the professionals at American Car Transporters handle the hard part. We make the process simple, insured, and stress free. Your car deserves the same protection you do. Visit American Car Transporters to learn more about our winter transport services or contact us to request a free quote today.