Snowbird Vehicle Shipping

Vehicle shipping for Canadian snowbirds

Fly south and let Oakwood move your vehicle. Canada/U.S. customs-bonded carrier support and seasonal return-trip planning.

Arrive rested while your vehicle is handled by a carrier that understands seasonal travel. Oakwood helps you coordinate the move around flights, rentals, property access, and return-trip timing so your vehicle is where you need it, when you need it.

Oakwood Transport car carrier loaded with vehicles in snowy winter conditions.

Plan Ahead

Snowbird shipping checklist

Confirm travel dates

Request your quote early when seasonal demand is high, especially for fall southbound and spring northbound moves.

Prepare documents

Have ownership, registration, insurance, title status, and contact information ready before booking.

Confirm property access

Tell Oakwood about gated communities, condo rules, storage locations, key access, and delivery restrictions before scheduling.

Clean out personal items

Personal items may be restricted by customs, insurance, or carrier policy. Confirm what can remain in the vehicle.

Plan the return trip

If you know your spring return window, discuss northbound timing while arranging the southbound move.

Keep contacts reachable

Provide mobile numbers and email contacts for both pickup and destination so timing changes can be handled quickly.

Snowbird FAQ

Common questions about snowbird vehicle shipping

Use these details to prepare before requesting a quote. Oakwood will still confirm route availability, timing, documents, access, and vehicle readiness before a shipment is scheduled.

What may I leave inside my vehicle?

You may leave:

  • Up to 2 suitcases containing clothing and shoes
  • Up to 2 sets of golf clubs

Please do not leave food, pet food, alcohol, medication, or electronics in the vehicle.

What days are vehicles picked up?

Vehicles travelling south are normally picked up on Friday or Saturday.

Vehicles returning north are normally picked up on Monday or Tuesday.

The driver will call you 1 to 2 days before pickup with an estimated arrival time.

Can you pick up my vehicle at my home?

Yes, provided our 80-foot transport truck can safely enter and leave your street.

The driver will make the final decision. When the driver calls, they will arrange a nearby meeting place if your street is not accessible. This may be a grocery store or large retail parking lot.

The same rule applies when your vehicle is delivered.

Do I need to be there when my vehicle is picked up?

No. However, another adult must be there to meet the driver and inspect the vehicle with them.

Please enter that person’s name and telephone number in the Special Instructions section of the booking form.

The same rule applies when your vehicle is delivered.

How can I pay?

E-transfer is preferred.

You may also pay by Visa or Mastercard. A 3% credit card fee will be added.

My vehicle is leased. Do I need a letter?

Yes. You need a letter from the leasing company giving you permission to use the vehicle in the United States.

The letter should include the dates you will be travelling in Florida.

When should I ask for a quote?

Please request your quote as early as possible, especially for:

  • Fall trips to Florida
  • Spring trips back to Canada

Pickup dates can be affected by seasonal demand, border requirements, the type of vehicle, and access to the pickup or delivery location.

What insurance coverage is provided?

Please read the Vehicle Shipping Agreement that was emailed to you when you booked.

It explains the insurance coverage, what to do if damage occurs, and how damage claims are handled.

What is the cancellation policy?

Please read the Vehicle Shipping Agreement that was emailed to you when you booked.

It explains cancellation deadlines and any fees that may apply when a booking is cancelled or changed.

How long does shipping usually take?

Most vehicles are delivered within 3 to 4 days after pickup.

Delays can sometimes happen. We will do our best to keep you informed if your delivery schedule changes.

How can I check the location of my vehicle?

Call our office during regular business hours for an update on your vehicle.

Is there a discount for shipping more than one vehicle?

No. We use the same competitive pricing for every vehicle, regardless of how many vehicles you ship.

Snowbird Form

Request seasonal vehicle shipping

Use the snowbird form for Canadian-plated vehicles and returning seasonal shipments.

Call Get Quote