Every fall, thousands of snowbirds head south to trade gray skies for turquoise water. If you’re spending the 2026 season in the Florida Keys, the car you rely on at home can be waiting for you when you arrive, without your having to drive 1,500 miles or more down I-95. Here’s what to know about shipping your car to the Keys this snowbird season.
Why Snowbirds Ship Instead of Drive
Driving from the Northeast or Midwest to the Keys can take several long days of highway, hotels, meals, and fuel, plus wear and tear on your vehicle. Shipping lets you fly down, settle in, and meet your car at your destination. For many seasonal residents it’s also simply less stressful, especially when the last stretch of the trip is the Overseas Highway.
The Snowbird Route
The busiest lanes run from states like New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois down to South Florida and the Keys. Demand rises sharply in the fall as people head south and again in spring as they return north. Because so many vehicles move in the same direction at the same time, planning ahead matters.
When to Book for the 2026 Season
The earlier you reach out, the more flexibility you’ll have. Peak weeks fill up, and carriers schedule routes around full loads. Booking ahead gives us time to match your vehicle with the right carrier and pickup window. If your dates are flexible by a few days, that can also help.
What Affects Your Rate
- Distance and route: Where you’re starting from and exactly where in the Keys you’re going.
- Trailer type: Open transport or enclosed transport.
- Vehicle size and condition: Larger or non-running vehicles take more space or equipment.
- Season: Snowbird demand affects pricing in both directions.
- Fuel prices: Fuel costs can shift rates, and they’re hard to predict, so quotes can change a little over time.
Open or Enclosed Transport?
Most vehicles travel on open carriers, the multi-car trailers you see on the highway. It’s the most common and economical option. If you’re shipping a classic, luxury, or collector car, enclosed transport keeps it covered from road debris and weather.
One thing that’s unique to the Keys: enclosed shipments often run to Fort Lauderdale on an enclosed trailer, then finish the trip to the Keys on an open trailer. Large enclosed rigs aren’t always practical on the Overseas Highway and island streets. We’ll explain exactly how your vehicle will move before you book.
Preparing Your Car
Personal Items
This question comes up constantly. FMCSA rules don’t allow personal items to be shipped in the vehicle, but most carriers will allow up to 100 lbs. Keep anything valuable or fragile with you, and secure anything you leave in the car.
Before Pickup
- Wash the car so its condition is easy to note at inspection.
- Take dated photos of all sides.
- Leave around a quarter tank of fuel.
- Remove toll tags and loose accessories.
- Make sure someone can hand over keys at pickup and receive the car at delivery.
Shipping Home in the Spring
Your return trip is just as important. Spring northbound demand can be busy, so it’s smart to talk about your return dates early. We can help you plan both directions.
Why Work With In-N-Out Keys
In-N-Out Keys LLC is both a broker and a carrier focused on the Florida Keys and the snowbird route. That focus means we know the route, the timing of the season, and the realities of delivering on the islands. We’re a licensed company: USDOT 4120018, MC 1583555.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book?
As early as you know your dates. Earlier booking gives more options during peak snowbird weeks.
Can I pack my car with belongings?
FMCSA doesn’t allow items in the vehicle, but most carriers allow up to 100 lbs. Ask us about your specific shipment.
Will my price change?
Rates can move a little with fuel prices and seasonal demand. We’ll give you an up-to-date quote when you’re ready.
Do you deliver to every Key?
We serve the Florida Keys, from Key Largo to Key West. Tell us your address and we’ll plan the delivery.
Can you ship my car back north in the spring?
Yes. We can plan both your southbound and northbound shipments.
Get Your Snowbird Quote
Ready to plan your 2026 season? Call our office at (754) 714-2439 or request a free quote online. We’ll help get your car to the Keys so it’s ready when you are.