Driving vs. Shipping: What’s Really Safer for Snowbirds?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Risks of Driving Long Distances
3. Advantages of Snowbird Auto Shipping
4. The Safer Choice for Snowbirds

Summary

For snowbirds heading south, long drives bring risks—fatigue, bad weather, breakdowns, and hidden costs. Choosing snowbird auto shipping ensures safe, professional handling of your vehicle while you travel stress-free. It offers comfort, cost-effectiveness, and peace of mind, letting you enjoy your winter escape without the burdens of long-distance driving.

For years, it has become an annual tradition for many Canadians to travel south of the border to spend their winter vacation. Just like migratory birds, these Canadians, fondly called snowbirds, prefer taking their own vehicles while going for a long stay. Now, when it comes to that, they can either go for snowbird car transportation or drive themselves. At first glance, it may seem that driving on your own is cheaper and convenient, but if you deep dive into it, it is not that simple. Here are some risks of long-distance driving vs going for snowbirds auto shipping through professional car shipping companies. 

The Risks of Driving Long Distances

Driver Fatigue

When going south for the winter, most Canadians prefer going to the southern U.S. states like Florida or Arizona. Some go even further south to Mexico! Naturally, driving to these destinations is not a quick trip. It is often multiple days on the road, and most of the time, driving on the highway. Even experienced drivers are not immune to fatigue, not to mention snowbirds who are often in their golden years. Driving thousands of kilometres is far more demanding.

Unpredictable Weather

Most snowbirds who didn’t opt for snowbird car transportation tend to leave in late fall or early winter. So, many times they face unpredictable weather conditions like snow, ice or freezing rain. All these make it harder to drive on the roads. They can delay your schedule as well, causing loss of time and money. 

Mechanical Breakdowns

Most snowbirds who prefer driving by themselves over snowbirds auto shipping always make sure that their vehicle is in excellent condition. But the wear and tear of a long road trip can come with unexpected mechanical issues like a flat tire, overheated engine, or dead battery. Having a breakdown in the middle of an unfamiliar location, far from home, is not only stressful but also unsafe.

Hidden Costs

One of the major reasons why snowbirds prefer driving over snowbird car transportation is cost. They believe that by driving, they are saving money. But if they add up all their expenses, like fuel costs, hotels, meals, tolls and potential repairs! So, you are not saving money, but increasing the mileage of the car, depreciating its value.

The Advantages Of Snowbirds Auto Shipping

Professional Handling

When shipping through a professional shipping company, your car is shipped securely and safely in trailers. The drivers are experts in their field, and they make sure your vehicle is handled with care and there is no risk of wear and tear.

Safety For You And Your Family

Instead of worrying about icy roads, long days of driving, or overnight stays in unfamiliar places, you can travel comfortably by air or other means. Shipping your vehicle through snowbird car transportation ensures you arrive safely while your car arrives securely at your destination.

Cost-effectiveness

As said before, if you compare the hidden costs of driving on your own, transporting your car through a shipping company is more affordable. Plus, if you book early, go for shipping options based on your budget, and you can get the best deal possible.

The Safer Choice For Snowbirds

These are the disadvantages of long-distance travelling and the advantages of hiring a car shipping company. At the end of the day, winter for snowbirds is a time to relax and enjoy the sunny weather in their destination. So, by going for snowbird auto shipping over driving by themselves, they can avoid being fatigued by the journey, unwanted mishaps and even unnecessary expenses! By making an informed choice, snowbirds can enjoy peace of mind, knowing their journey south will be as safe, comfortable, and stress-free as possible.