Discount season at Copart and IAAI: in which months are cars from the USA the cheapest in 2026

The best time to buy a car from the USA at Copart and IAAI auctions is late autumn and winter (from November to February), as well as the summer heat period (July–August). During these months, the average lot price decreases by 10–18% due to seasonal demand decline in the U.S., holidays, and a surge in insurance write-offs following severe weather.

Importing a car from the USA remains one of the most popular ways to purchase a reliable vehicle at a price 20–35% lower than the Ukrainian market. However, the final cost estimate depends on the timing of the auction. Copart, IAAI, and Manheim operate according to free market principles, where supply and demand fluctuate depending on the season, weather conditions across the states, and public holidays.

Why Do Prices at U.S. Auctions Change Throughout the Year? (Key Factors)

The final cost of importing a car from the USA is influenced by several factors:

• Weather conditions: During winter, snowfall leads to an increase in traffic accidents. Insurance companies receive a higher volume of damaged vehicles, supply increases, and prices decline.

• Holidays: In November (Thanksgiving) and December (Christmas), the number of private buyers drops significantly, reducing competition.

• Tax Refunds: In March and April, Americans receive tax refunds. Dealers actively purchase vehicles, driving bidding prices higher.

• Logistics and customs clearance: Ocean shipping and customs processing also experience seasonal peaks in demand.

2026 Savings Calendar: Seasonal Breakdown

To make planning your purchase easier, the experts at Lyube Auto have prepared a convenient seasonal auction calendar for 2026, showing when importing a car from the USA can be the most cost-effective.

Winter (December – February)

• Price level: 🟢 Lowest (-15%...-18%).

• Auction competition: Low.

• Season highlights: The best time to buy. After severe winter weather, insurance companies list more vehicles at auctions, increasing the selection and making prices more attractive.

Spring (March – May)

• Price level: 🔴 Highest (+15%...+20%).

• Auction competition: Very high.

• Season highlights: The Tax Refund season in the United States boosts buyer activity, causing vehicle prices and auction bids to rise significantly.

Summer (June – August)

• Price level: 🟡 Moderate (especially in July and August).

• Auction competition: Moderate.

• Season highlights: Demand remains high in June, but the market gradually calms down starting in July, creating better opportunities to purchase a vehicle at a more favorable price.

Autumn (September – November)

• Price level: 🟢 Favorable (especially in October and November).

• Auction competition: Moderate to low.

• Season highlights: Demand declines before the holiday season. This is an excellent time to purchase crossovers, sedans, and many other popular vehicle models.

Winter: The Golden Season for Buyers

If your goal is maximum savings, winter is the ideal time to order a quality car from the USA. In December, Christmas holidays reduce competition at Copart and IAAI auctions to a minimum. In January and February, auction platforms receive a huge number of vehicles involved in winter accidents. Insurance companies aim to clear inventory quickly, creating favorable conditions for buyers. Auctions become less competitive, and winning bids are often significantly below market expectations.

Spring: The Season of High Bids

This is the least favorable time to buy. In the U.S., March and April are tax refund season. With additional cash in hand, thousands of Americans enter the used car market. Local dealerships and professional buyers aggressively compete for every quality lot. Prices at Copart reach their annual peak. If your goal is to secure the best possible deal on a car from the USA, spring is best reserved for less popular niche models.

Summer: Seasonal Slowdown During the Hottest Months

June still carries the momentum of the busy spring market, but by mid-July, activity begins to slow. The U.S. vacation season encourages many buyers to postpone vehicle purchases. July and August provide an excellent "second chance" to buy at lower prices. Sedans, hatchbacks, and electric vehicles are especially attractive during this period.

Autumn: Stability with Gradually Falling Prices

September is generally stable, but from the second half of October through November, prices begin to decline steadily. Auctions become less competitive and emotionally driven. Another advantage of purchasing in autumn is that shipping and customs clearance are usually completed on schedule before winter congestion at seaports begins.

Based on the 2026 seasonal analysis, one conclusion is clear: planning the timing of your purchase is one of the easiest ways to save between $1,000 and $2,500 on a single vehicle.

Here are the key recommendations from the Lyube Auto team for anyone planning to buy a car from the USA:

1. Buy in winter or late autumn: If you're working with a limited budget, focus on the period from November through February. This gives you the best chance to win a lot with minimal markup.

2. Watch the holiday calendar: The days leading up to Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Christmas usually have the fewest active participants in Copart and IAAI auction sessions.

3. Consider the entire timeline: Keep in mind that shipping and customs clearance typically take between 1.5 and 2.5 months. If you want to drive your new vehicle in spring, it's best to purchase it at auction in December or January.

4. Work with professionals: The Lyube Auto team monitors auction history, verifies VIN numbers through Carfax, and helps you choose the ideal lot at the most favorable market moment.

Want to Know the Real Turnkey Cost of a Car from the USA?

Leave a request on our website lubeavto.com.ua or contact one of our managers. We'll find the best Copart and IAAI lots based on the current season and your budget!