You’ve just booked your car shipment, excited for it to arrive at your new home. The carrier promises delivery in 7–10 days, but two weeks later, you’re still waiting and refreshing the tracking page in frustration. It’s a stressful experience that many customers face. In fact, 18% of U.S. customers expect their vehicle within a week, yet delays remain common across the industry. Why does this happen?
In this guide, we’ll highlight the top causes behind car shipping delays and how you can avoid them.
Methodology of Our Research
To ensure the accuracy and reliability of our analysis on the most common causes of car shipping delays in the U.S. for 2025, we followed a detailed research methodology outlined below:
- Industry Experience: Our findings are based on over 9 years of hands-on experience in the auto transport industry, managing thousands of successful shipments across all states.
- Customer Experience Analysis: We reviewed feedback and case data from previous customers, analyzing delivery timelines, communication records, and post-shipment reviews.
- Industry Report Comparison: To validate our insights, we compared our internal data with findings from reputable auto transport and logistics industry reports.
- Seasonality & External Factors: We evaluated seasonal shipping trends, including weather disruptions, holiday surges, and regional demand fluctuations that can affect carrier routes and timelines.
- Real Data: By integrating real-world operational data with verified industry benchmarks, we identified the key factors influencing delivery delays and developed practical solutions to help vehicle owners plan shipments more effectively and minimize risks.
What is considered a Car Shipping Delay?
Car shipping delays occur when a vehicle doesn't reach its destination within the quoted timeframe due to factors such as severe weather, traffic congestion, limited carrier availability, mechanical issues, incorrect documentation, or unforeseen route disruptions. These delays can lead to frustration, added rental or storage costs, and disrupt carefully planned schedules, leaving customers uncertain about their vehicle’s arrival.
Top 9 Reasons for Car Shipping Delays
Auto transport delays can be caused by a variety of factors, but some are far more common than others. Here are the most typical causes and ways to prevent them:
Weather Conditions & Natural Disasters
Severe weather and natural disasters can disrupt transportation routes and schedules, often causing decreased visibility or hazardous driving conditions. Weather-related issues account for roughly 23% of roadway delays, resulting in billions of lost vehicle hours and significant costs to the trucking industry.
How to prevent this: Learn the typical weather patterns in your shipping states, plan shipments during favorable seasons, and build buffer days into your schedule. For high-value or sensitive vehicles, we recommend considering enclosed transport for added protection.
Traffic and Port Congestion
Delays on the road and at ports are one of the common reasons for car shipping delays. Traffic congestion, accidents, road closures, and construction can slow or stop a carrier’s movement. Port congestion, caused by labor shortages, stoppages, or bad weather, can create further delays in the shipping process. Together, these factors can significantly extend delivery times and disrupt carefully planned schedules.
How to prevent: To reduce the impact of traffic and port delays, plan your shipment with a realistic delivery window of 2 to 3 days beyond the estimated timeline. Stay updated with tracking notifications from your carrier and keep in touch with customer service.
Seasonal Demand (Summer & Snowbird Season)
Car shipping demand spikes during summer, back-to-school periods, holidays, and the snowbird season (November through April), when northern residents travel south to warmer climates. During these peak periods, carriers often operate at or above capacity, resulting in delays, missed delivery windows, and higher costs.
How to avoid this: Book shipments several weeks in advance to secure availability and lower costs. If possible, schedule shipments during off-peak periods, such as late fall or winter, to avoid car shipping delays.
Carrier Breakdowns & Equipment Issues
As trucks and carriers are complex machines operating under rigorous schedules, mechanical failures or equipment issues can occur at any time. Truck breakdowns can prevent timely movement and delay deliveries, especially when the vehicle is already en route. Even minor issues like tire blowouts, brake malfunctions, or hydraulic failures can disrupt planned routes and require immediate roadside repairs.
How to avoid: Make sure to partner with an auto transport company with modern, well-maintained equipment and stay in frequent communication to stay informed about operational status. BAH Logistics is a great example here, as our trucks are well-maintained and we are always in touch with our clients even if such issues happen.
Driver Shortages and Hours-of-Service Rules
A persistent shortage of truck drivers, driven by an aging workforce and a lack of new entrants, is creating delays in car shipment operations as well. For example, the industry currently faces a shortfall of roughly 80,000 unfilled driver positions in the U.S.. At the same time, federal Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Hours-of-Service (HOS) regulations restrict how many hours a driver may spend driving or on duty. These factors can limit available drivers and contribute to car transport’s late delivery.
How to avoid this: Find the auto transport company that has a big network of carriers. Luckily, you have BAH and our wide carrier network and advanced route optimization systems help minimize the impact of driver shortages and HOS restrictions. We recommend scheduling the shipment in advance to be secured from such issues.
Route Complexity and Distance
The complexity of route planning and the distance to be covered can often lead to delays. Factors such as multiple stops, traffic congestion, construction zones, and hard-to-access locations can slow transit times.
How to prevent: Make careful planning and be flexible with pickup and drop-off locations, and allow a flexible delivery window to accommodate potential car shipping problems. Experienced carriers will do the rest.
Vehicle Readiness Problems
Sometimes delays occur when vehicles aren’t properly prepared for transport. Common issues include dead batteries, missing keys, or vehicles that are not in running condition. Improperly prepared vehicles cause last-minute hold-ups, missed delivery windows, and additional fees for both the carrier and the customer.
How to prevent: Follow a checklist to prepare your vehicle, including charging the battery, having the vehicle in running condition, keeping keys available, maintaining a fuel level around 1/4 tank, removing loose items, and keeping the car clean and clear for inspection and loading.
Administrative and Regulatory Delays
You can’t avoid administrative and regulatory requirements. The complexity of the process, the need for thorough review, and issues such as incomplete paperwork can slow down the shipping process, too. These delays may occur in various areas, from non-compliance with state or local transport regulations to routine permits and authorizations, and can impact timelines, costs, and overall efficiency.
How to prevent: Always learn and follow state regulations, double-check all paperwork before pickup, and confirm vehicle registration and title information.
Special Vehicles (EVs, Classics, Oversized)
Special vehicles may require additional shipping time. Oversized vehicles need specialized carriers and loading procedures, while luxury and classic cars often require careful handling and enclosed transport, which has limited carrier availability. Electric vehicles (EVs) may also need extra preparation, such as charging, special tie-downs, and compliance with battery transport regulations.
Prevention: Let the support team know all the specific details of your EV or oversized vehicle and book your shipment early. Plan for a realistic delivery window to avoid car transport late delivery.
Top 9 Causes of Car Shipping Delays
Many customers want quick solutions, so here’s a handy summary to keep your shipment on track and address issues promptly:
| Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| Weather & Natural Disasters | Ship in favorable seasons, plan a delivery window buffer |
| Seasonal Demand (Summer & Snowbird Season) | Book shipments several weeks in advance |
| Traffic & Port Congestion | Allow extra days, track shipment, stay in touch with the carrier |
| Driver Shortages & HOS Rules | Book early, choose experienced carriers with large networks |
| Carrier Breakdowns & Equipment Issues | Trust a reputable company with modern, well-maintained equipment |
| Route Complexity and Distance | Make careful planning and be flexible with pickup and drop-off locations |
| Vehicle Readiness | Charge battery, check fuel/tires, remove loose items, have keys ready |
| Administrative and Regulatory Delays | Always learn and follow state regulations, double-check all paperwork before pickup |
| Special Vehicles (EVs, Classics, Oversized) | Communicate needs upfront, book early, and plan a realistic delivery window |
How to Avoid or Minimize Car Shipping Delays
A well-planned logistics strategy can make a big difference in reducing car shipping delays. Here are some key strategies for car owners:
Book early, especially in peak seasons. Booking your car shipment 3-4 weeks in advance during busy periods, such as holidays, summer, or snowbird season, gives the shipping company enough time to assign your vehicle to an available carrier, confirm pickup dates, and handle any unexpected schedule changes.
Prepare your vehicle. Proper preparation can prevent delays. Charge the battery, check tires, keep fuel around 1/4 tank, and remove any loose items. Make sure the car is clean and ready for inspection and loading.
Be flexible with pickup and delivery. Avoid tight schedules that can cause mistakes or delays. Build flexibility into your timeline to accommodate unexpected issues during transit. Being flexible also increases the chances of your vehicle being assigned to the best available carrier and arriving on time.
Work closely with a reliable auto transport company. Choose an experienced car shipping company with a strong track record and clear communication. Check licenses, insurance, and customer reviews, request transparent quotes, and confirm delivery timelines. Staying in touch with the company helps you manage expectations and respond quickly to any changes.
Ask for clear timelines. After booking your car shipment, check your confirmation email and the expected delivery date. At BAH Logistics, we always provide clear delivery dates, and if any delays happen, we make sure to inform our customers promptly. This helps you understand potential timing issues and plan accordingly.
What to Do If Your Car Shipment Is Delayed
Even if you follow the above-mentioned tips, delays may happen and cause stress, especially if you need your vehicle for a specific move, event, or date. Here are some steps to help manage the situation and reduce stress:
Stay in Communication with the Company
Contact the shipping company to get details on the cause of the delay. Request an updated delivery estimate and inquire about potential solutions, such as alternative drop-off locations if your destination is remote or difficult to access.
Request Tracking and ETA Updates
Staying informed is essential for managing delays. Ask for a tracking number or request updates via email, and maintain frequent contact with customer support. Continuous updates give you a clear picture of your vehicle’s location, expected arrival, and any unexpected changes, helping you plan effectively.
Understand Your Contract (Compensation or Refund Options)
If your shipment is delayed, review your contract to see if the company is responsible for resolving the issue or offering a refund. If you paid for expedited shipping, you may be eligible for a refund based on the carrier’s service agreement. Always check the contract for specific terms regarding compensation for auto transport delays.
Adjust Your Schedule
Reassess your plans and allow extra time before the vehicle’s arrival. Stay informed about updates, monitor weather or local conditions that could cause further delays, and make temporary arrangements, such as renting a car or adjusting move-in dates, to reduce stress and disruption.
Delays Happen. Preparedness Wins.
Shipping delays aren’t always avoidable, but smart planning makes all the difference. The given practical tips will reduce car shipping delays to a minimum and keep your car shipment on track. At BAH Logistics, we’ve navigated the complexities of car shipping for years. Our trusted network of carriers and customer service agents reduces surprises and gives you more control over your shipment.
