Winter weather poses serious risks to cars in transit—from road salt corrosion and freezing temperatures to ice storms and reduced visibility. Whether you're relocating across state lines or shipping a classic car to warmer regions, understanding how to protect your vehicle during winter transport is essential. In this guide by BAH Logistics, we will cover everything from selecting the right shipping method to preparing your car beforehand, so it arrives safely and in the best condition.
Transporting vehicles during winter months presents several risks that can directly affect your car, making enclosed transport the preferred choice:
Hazardous weather and road conditions: Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures increase the risk of accidents and can damage your car’s paint, undercarriage, and exposed components.
Road and infrastructure issues: Slippery roads, potholes, and winter-related detours can cause scratches, dents, or other damage during transit.
Reduced visibility: Snow, sleet, fog, and shorter daylight hours make navigation harder for drivers, increasing the likelihood of minor bumps or collisions.
Delays and holiday traffic: Extended transit times due to storms, busy holiday periods, or the high demand during snowbird season can leave your vehicle exposed to harsh conditions longer than expected. Scheduling your booking 3–4 weeks in advance can help minimize this exposure
When it comes to shipping your car during the winter, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The best transport method depends on several factors, including your vehicle type, its value, the route, and the weather conditions along the way.
Enclosed transport: This is the best choice for winter shipping. Enclosed carriers shield your vehicle from snow, ice, road salt, and debris, protecting both its exterior and mechanical components. While it is more expensive, it provides peace of mind and superior protection, making it ideal for luxury, antique, or high-value cars.
Open transport: A more budget-friendly option, open transport exposes your vehicle to the elements. Snow, ice, road salt, and debris can damage your car’s paint, undercarriage, and other sensitive components. While affordable, it carries a higher risk, especially during harsh winter conditions.
Hard-sided vs. soft-sided enclosed carriers: Hard-sided enclosed carriers offer the highest level of protection, fully shielding your vehicle from weather and road debris. Soft-sided enclosed carriers are slightly more affordable while still offering significant protection compared to open transport, making them a good middle-ground option.
Experienced carriers will handle most of the work to get your vehicle safely to its destination. However, there are several steps you should take to protect your car during winter shipping:
Clean and inspect your car: Wash both the exterior and undercarriage to remove dirt and road salt. Clean the interior and inspect for any pre-existing damage. Applying a protective wax can help prevent corrosion from road salt.
Remove personal items: Take out all personal belongings, valuables, and trash. Carriers are not responsible for loss or damage to items left inside the vehicle.
Check fluids: Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready by topping off all essential fluids, including engine oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. For states with extreme cold, ensure your antifreeze is rated for the lowest possible temperatures.
Battery maintenance: A fully charged and well-maintained battery is crucial in cold weather, as extreme temperatures can drain it quickly. Check for corrosion, cracks, or other signs of wear.
Switch to winter tires: If possible, replace all-season tires with winter tires before transport. Winter tires provide better traction on icy or snowy roads, helping prevent sliding during loading, unloading, and transit.
Finding a trustworthy car shipping company is crucial, especially when shipping during winter or to areas with harsh conditions.
Look for companies with extensive networks and experience operating in all 50 states. A company familiar with different regions and road conditions, especially in winter, can better handle delays, weather challenges, and logistics.
Research online customer reviews on independent platforms like Google Reviews and Trustpilot. Pay attention to feedback from customers who shipped vehicles during snowy or icy conditions. Positive experiences in challenging weather are a strong indicator of reliability.
Verify the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and check its registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). A reputable company typically works with a large network of trained carriers experienced in handling vehicles safely in winter conditions.
Ask about the insurance coverage available for high-value vehicles and any delivery guarantees offered. Reliable companies provide clear policies to protect your car during transit, especially under challenging weather conditions.
Shipping your car during winter doesn’t have to be risky. By understanding the challenges, selecting the right transport method, preparing your vehicle properly, and choosing a reliable shipping company, you can ensure your car arrives safely and in top condition—even in harsh winter conditions.
Supriyo Khan
Supriyo Khan
Supriyo Khan
Supriyo Khan
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