Shipping your car across the country can be a daunting task, but with proper preparation, the experience can be simple, efficient, and stress-free. Whether you’re moving for a new job, buying a car from a dealership, or sending a vehicle to a loved one, getting your car ready for transport is key to ensuring a smooth shipping process. At Ship A Car, Inc., we believe that preparation is half the battle. That’s why we’ve put together this car shipping checklist to guide you through every step of the process.
A well-prepared car not only ensures a safe trip but also helps avoid unexpected issues like additional fees or delays. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the essential steps of getting your car ready for transport, so you can rest easy knowing that everything is handled.
Before shipping your car, it’s important to clean it both inside and out. Why? Washing your vehicle allows you to check for any existing damage and provides a clean slate for the transporter to document the vehicle’s condition. A thorough wash also ensures that the shipping company’s carriers don’t pick up any dirt or debris that could potentially affect your car’s paint or finish during transit.
Make sure to pay special attention to areas like the wheel wells, undercarriage, and tires. Cleaning these hard-to-reach spots not only helps with the overall appearance but also helps prevent dirt from rubbing against the paint during the journey.
It’s essential to remove all personal items from your car before shipping it. Carriers are usually prohibited from transporting personal belongings due to safety regulations, so any belongings left inside could delay the shipping process. Additionally, removing these items helps avoid potential theft or loss.
Take out any valuable items, including electronics, GPS units, toll passes, and any other personal possessions. While it may seem like a small detail, it can save you from unnecessary complications down the road.
Before shipping, make sure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition. This is especially important if you’re using open car transport, as a malfunctioning vehicle could pose a risk to the other cars being shipped. If you notice any fluid leaks, be sure to fix them before scheduling your shipment.
It’s also a good idea to check your tire pressure and ensure that the vehicle’s battery is fully charged. This will make it easier for the transport company to load and unload the vehicle without any issues.
Taking photos of your car is a crucial part of the shipping process. Documenting your vehicle’s condition with clear photos helps protect you from being held responsible for any damage that may occur during transit. Be sure to take pictures from all angles, including the front, back, sides, and close-ups of any existing damage.
Ship A Car also recommends making note of any dings, scratches, or dents. This way, you’ll be able to compare the condition of your vehicle upon delivery and confirm that no new damage occurred during transport.
When shipping a vehicle, the fuel tank should be no more than a quarter full. This is a safety measure to reduce the weight of the vehicle, making it easier to load and unload. A full tank of gas adds unnecessary weight and can increase the cost of shipping, especially for long-distance trips.
If you’re worried about driving your car to the shipping company’s location with less than a quarter tank, don’t be. The shipping company will take care of your vehicle and ensure it’s ready for transport.
It’s common for car alarms to go off during transport, especially if the car is jostled or bumped along the way. Before shipping your car, make sure to disable any alarm systems to prevent the alarm from going off during transport.
If your car has a security or tracking system, make sure the shipping company is aware of it. In some cases, these systems may interfere with the transport process, so providing the transporter with specific instructions or deactivating the system beforehand can help avoid any issues.
To prevent any damage to your vehicle or the other vehicles on the transport, it’s a good idea to fold in any side mirrors or remove any external antennas. These parts are often vulnerable to scratches or breakage during transport, especially in tight spaces.
If your vehicle is a convertible or has a soft top, you may need to take extra precautions to protect it during transport. If you’re unsure about how to handle your car’s specific features, ask the team at Ship A Car, Inc. for advice or instructions.
When preparing for your car shipping experience, it’s important to understand the different shipping options available. Ship A Car, Inc. offers both open car transport and enclosed car transport, each suited to different needs.
- Open Car Transport: This is the most common and cost-effective option for shipping vehicles. Your car is transported on an open carrier along with several other vehicles. While this option is more budget-friendly, it’s best suited for everyday vehicles and customers who are comfortable with their car being exposed to the elements.
- Enclosed Car Transport: If you’re shipping a luxury, classic, or high-value vehicle, enclosed transport provides additional protection from weather and road debris. This option is more expensive but ensures your vehicle stays safe from external damage during transport.
By discussing your needs with Ship A Car, Inc., we can recommend the best shipping option for your car and ensure it’s handled with care.
Before finalizing the transport, double-check that all of your vehicle’s details are correct. This includes confirming the pickup and delivery addresses, the make and model of your car, and any special instructions or requests for the carrier. Ensuring that all of the information is accurate will help avoid any delays or miscommunications during the shipping process.
Preparing your car for transport is crucial to a smooth and successful shipping experience. By following this car shipping checklist, you can ensure your vehicle is ready for its journey, avoiding unexpected issues and delays. Ship A Car, Inc. makes the process even easier with our expert advice and dedication to customer satisfaction.
With over a decade of experience in car shipping, we provide the best open car transport services for budget-friendly auto shipping. Our team of professionals is ready to assist you every step of the way, making sure your car is transported safely and efficiently.
Call us today at (866) 821-4555 or use our auto transport calculator to get a price for your car shipment. Ship A Car, Inc. is the trusted provider for all your vehicle shipping needs. Let us show you why we’re the best choice for your next car transport!
Q: How do I prepare my car for shipping?
A: Prepare your car by cleaning it, removing personal items, checking for mechanical issues, and documenting its condition. Also, make sure to keep the fuel tank below a quarter full and disable the alarm system. For more information, please refer to our car shipping checklist here.
Q: What is the difference between open and enclosed car transport?
A: Open car transport is a cost-effective option where your vehicle is shipped on an open carrier. Enclosed car transport provides additional protection by shipping your vehicle in a fully enclosed carrier, ideal for high-value or classic cars.
Q: How do I track my car during transport?
A: Ship A Car, Inc. offers tracking services, so you can stay updated on the status of your vehicle’s transport. We’ll provide you with tracking information, so you know exactly where your car is throughout the journey.
Q: Is it safe to ship my car across the country?
A: Yes, Ship A Car, Inc. works with licensed and insured carriers to ensure your vehicle’s safety during transit. We take all necessary precautions to ensure your car arrives safely at its destination.
Q: How much does it cost to ship a car?
A: The cost of shipping a car depends on factors such as the distance, type of transport, and vehicle size. Use our auto transport cost calculator or call us at (866) 821-4555 for an accurate quote tailored to your needs.
