Tips for Preparing Your Car for Cross-Country Shipping

Shipping your car across the country can be a stress-free experience if you plan ahead and take the necessary steps to ensure your vehicle is ready for the journey. Proper preparation not only helps protect your car during transit but also ensures a smooth and efficient process from pick-up to delivery. Whether you’re moving, buying a car from a distant seller, or shipping your vehicle for any other reason, following this car shipping checklist will help you get everything in order. Here are some key car transport tips to make sure you’re well-prepared when preparing your car for shipping.

1. Clean Your Car Inside and Out

Before handing your car over to the shipping company, give it a thorough cleaning, both inside and out. A clean exterior will make it easier to inspect your vehicle for any pre-existing scratches, dents, or other damage that might be difficult to spot if the car is dirty. Washing the car also ensures you have clear documentation of its condition before shipping.

For the interior, make sure to remove any personal items, valuables, or unnecessary clutter. Auto transport companies generally don’t allow personal belongings in the vehicle, and leaving items inside could increase the risk of damage or loss.

2. Take Photos and Document the Condition

As part of the car shipping checklist, document your vehicle’s condition thoroughly before handing it over to the shipping company. Take clear, well-lit photos of the car from multiple angles, including close-ups of any existing damage like scratches, dents, or chipped paint.

This photographic record will serve as proof of the car’s condition in case any disputes arise about damage during shipping. Additionally, it’s a good idea to make notes about any mechanical issues or areas of concern to share with the transport company.

3. Remove Personal Items and Accessories

Auto transport companies generally advise customers to remove all personal items from their vehicles before shipping. Not only are personal items not covered by the transport company’s insurance, but extra weight can also increase the cost of shipping or cause unnecessary delays.

Remove accessories such as roof racks, bike racks, spoilers, or custom antennae to avoid damage during transit. If you have specialty items like GPS devices, sound systems, or removable entertainment units, take them out before shipping. Also, don’t forget to remove any toll tags or parking passes to prevent charges during the journey.

4. Check for Leaks and Mechanical Issues

Before shipping your car, inspect it for any leaks or mechanical issues. Fluid leaks can be hazardous during transport, and the shipping company may refuse to transport a vehicle with significant leaks. Have a mechanic check your car if necessary to ensure everything is in working order.

Additionally, let the transport company know if your car has any mechanical problems or special quirks that might affect loading, unloading, or handling during the journey.

5. Ensure the Battery is Fully Charged and Tires are Properly Inflated

Make sure the car battery is fully charged and the tires are properly inflated before shipping. If the battery is weak or dead, loading and unloading your vehicle could become problematic, potentially leading to delays. Similarly, under-inflated tires can cause damage during transit, as the car may shift slightly during the journey.

6. Disable Alarms and Anti-Theft Devices

Before shipping your car, disable any alarms or anti-theft devices. If the alarm accidentally goes off during transport, it could be disruptive or even cause delays. Inform the transport company about any security systems in your vehicle and how to disable them if needed.

7. Leave the Gas Tank Quarter-Full

When preparing your car for shipping, make sure the gas tank is no more than a quarter full. The transport company doesn’t need a full tank of gas to load, unload, or transport your car, and excess fuel adds unnecessary weight to the shipment. A quarter tank is enough to drive the car on and off the transport truck.

8. Provide Spare Keys and Necessary Documents

It’s important to give the transport company a spare set of keys so they can easily move the car during the shipping process. Avoid giving your only set of keys, just in case they get lost during transit. Additionally, ensure you have all necessary documents related to the transport, including your booking confirmation, driver’s contact information, and any shipping paperwork.

9. Inspect and Document Your Car Upon Delivery

Once your car has arrived at its destination, inspect it thoroughly to ensure that no new damage has occurred during transport. Compare its condition with the photos you took before shipping, and check for any scratches, dents, or mechanical issues. If you notice any damage, document it immediately and report it to the transport company.

By following these car transport tips and using a comprehensive car shipping checklist, you can ensure a smooth and worry-free experience when shipping your vehicle across the country. From cleaning your car to documenting its condition and preparing it for transport, taking the time to properly prepare will help protect your vehicle and give you peace of mind throughout the shipping process. With careful planning and attention to detail, your car will arrive at its destination in excellent condition, ready for the road. Keep your car like you are keeping your phone with a glass protector for the phone or phone case.