Shipping your car can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. This comprehensive guide provides 14 essential Car Shipping Tips to get your vehicle ready for transport.
1. Wash Your Car Thoroughly: A clean car allows for a more accurate vehicle condition report, making it easier to identify any pre-existing damage before shipping. This report, filled out with the driver, documents the car’s current state, including scratches, dents, and paint chips.
2. Document Existing Damage: Before the driver arrives, thoroughly inspect your clean car and note any existing damage. This preparation will save time and ensure a comprehensive assessment during the vehicle inspection.
3. Photograph Your Vehicle Extensively: Capture clear, dated photos of your car from various angles, documenting both existing damage and the overall condition. These images serve as crucial evidence in case of any issues during transport.
4. Take a Picture of the Odometer: While reputable auto transporters prioritize vehicle safety, photographing your odometer provides added peace of mind by recording the mileage before shipping.
5. Clean the Interior: Remove loose items like phone holders, chargers, and air fresheners to prevent them from shifting during transit and potentially causing damage. This also minimizes the risk of theft or loss.
6. Secure or Remove External Accessories: Remove or secure detachable accessories such as bike racks, luggage racks, and custom spoilers to prevent damage during transport. Fold in side view mirrors if possible. If your antenna is removable, detach it and store it in the trunk.
7. Check Essential Fluids and Tires: Ensure your radiator has sufficient antifreeze, your battery is fully charged and secure, and your tires are properly inflated to prevent potential damage during shipping.
8. Address Fluid Leaks: Inspect for leaks and have them repaired if possible. Inform the driver of any minor, unfixable leaks so they can position your car on the trailer accordingly to prevent dripping on other vehicles.
9. Ensure Your Car is Operational: Verify your car is in good working order. Address any engine or mechanical issues before shipping. If your car is inoperable, inform the transport company in advance to arrange appropriate loading equipment and discuss potential extra charges.
10. Keep Fuel Level Low: A quarter tank of gas is sufficient for loading and unloading. A lighter vehicle improves fuel efficiency for the transporter.
11. Disable Alarms and Toll Tags: Deactivate your car alarm to prevent disruptions during transport. Remove or deactivate toll tags to avoid unnecessary charges.
12. Prepare Keys: Provide a complete set of keys, including ignition, door, and glove compartment keys, for both yourself and the driver. Having an extra set is always recommended.
13. Verify Insurance Coverage: Confirm that your car insurance covers auto transport. While carriers have cargo insurance, it may not cover damages from natural causes or “Acts of God.”
14. Understand Personal Belongings Policy: If you plan to ship personal items in your car, review the transporter’s policy regarding weight limits and insurance coverage. Most companies allow a certain weight for free, but items are usually shipped at the owner’s risk.
By following these car shipping tips, you can confidently prepare your vehicle for transport and enjoy a smoother, more secure shipping experience.
