Classic cars are much more special than the normal types of cars you see every day; however, the process of shipping them may not be as different as you might think. Since classic cars tend to be more delicate, there is a need to ensure the shipping process is as safe and seamless as possible. This article will discuss 10 essential tips that guarantee the success of shipping your classic car.
Shipping your classic car will not be an easy task, and planning ahead of the journey gives you and your shipping company enough time to properly carry out a smooth and safe shipping process. Planning ahead also reduces the risk of mistakes or miscalculations, which can be very costly to correct.
You shouldn’t blindly attempt to ship a classic vehicle, especially if you don’t have any experience shipping exotic cars. Conduct research on the right steps to take or the necessary things to take into account in order to facilitate the smooth transportation of your classic car to your desired location.
Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or anyone who has any experience shipping their classic cars. These recommendations can serve as a starting point for the auto transporter you will end up hiring. Go online and read reviews about the different companies or visit the companies websites to learn more about the services they offer and if they will be a good choice.
When you request quotes from the different shipping companies, you might be tempted to go with the one offering the lowest prices. But you need to keep in mind that the quotes given by companies are a gauge of the quality of their services. Ultimately, you should choose the option that best fits your budget and offers services that are worth your investment.
If you want a satisfactory outcome, then you should hire professional auto-shippers who have experience shipping classic cars. These professionals have the necessary tools and equipment and employ various high-level techniques to ensure your vehicle is delivered safely and on time.
Classic cars often have special requirements, such as custom clearances and appropriate documentation. Promptly informing your shipping company about these requirements, along with additional details and information, prevents unexpected delays and mishaps during the shipping process. It also allows the auto transporter to properly account for these needs when planning the transportation of the classic car.
In the case of classic cars, damage prevention is usually better than damage repair. And the best way to prevent damage is to ship your vehicle in an enclosed carrier, which shields it from external elements like road debris and harsh weather conditions. While this shipping option might cost a little extra, it is best for exotic and classic vehicles.
While some damage to classic cars can be fixed, repairing them will most likely cause a huge dent in your finances. This is due to the high cost of procuring replacement parts or carrying out the actual repairs. A broader insurance coverage ensures that damages your vehicle sustains during loading, unloading, and transport are covered by the shipping company.
Before taking your vehicle to the drop-off point, you still need to take some preparatory steps to ensure the shipping process goes smoothly. While these steps may vary depending on the classic car, some general things to do are:
- Remove personal belongings.
- Secure or remove loose parts.
- Disconnect electrical systems
- Disable security alarms.
Finally, you need to inspect and document the vehicle’s condition. Take clear photographs of different parts of the car from various angles, highlighting already existing damages such as dents or scratches, if there are any. This will be of utmost importance in cases of insurance disputes or any other legal qualms.
Shipping a classic car can be a daunting task, but knowing and employing these 10 essential tips can greatly improve your overall shipping experience. From planning ahead to inspecting the vehicle, these steps help to ensure that your vehicle suffers little or no damage over the course of the journey. You can always contact Ship A Car, Inc. at (866) 821-4555 for professional shipping services for all kinds of vehicles, including classic cars. Our commitment to vehicle safety will ensure your vehicle gets to its destination in perfect condition.
