Proper preparation is key to ensuring your vehicle arrives safely at its destination. Following these essential steps will protect your car during transport and help avoid any potential issues or delays.
Important Note
Start preparing your vehicle at least 1-2 weeks before your scheduled pickup date. This gives you time to address any issues and ensures a smooth transport process.
Wash Your Car Thoroughly
A clean car makes it much easier to document any existing damage during the pre-transport inspection. Dirt and grime can hide scratches, dents, or other issues that might be attributed to transport damage later.
Why This Matters:
- Accurate damage assessment before transport
- Clear photos for insurance documentation
- Professional appearance for carrier inspection
Washing Checklist:
- • Exterior wash and wax
- • Clean windows inside and out
- • Wash wheel wells and undercarriage
- • Remove any decals or magnets
- • Clean interior for inspection
Remove All Personal Items
Personal belongings are not covered by the carrier's insurance and can add unnecessary weight to your vehicle. Most reputable car shipping companies prohibit personal items in transported vehicles.
Insurance Warning
Personal items are not covered by transport insurance and may void your coverage if damaged.
Items to Remove:
- • Electronics and chargers
- • Important documents
- • Valuable items and jewelry
- • Loose items from trunk/interior
- • Custom accessories (if removable)
- • Toll tags and parking passes
Check for Leaks and Mechanical Issues
Vehicles with fluid leaks or mechanical problems may be rejected by carriers or require special handling, which can increase costs and cause delays.
Fluid Leaks
- • Oil leaks
- • Coolant leaks
- • Brake fluid
- • Power steering fluid
Battery & Electrical
- • Battery charge level
- • Alternator function
- • Lights and signals
- • Alarm systems
Tires & Brakes
- • Tire pressure
- • Tread condition
- • Brake function
- • Emergency brake
Document Your Vehicle's Condition
Thorough documentation protects you in case of damage during transport. Take detailed photos and notes of your vehicle's condition before pickup.
Photo Documentation Tips:
- Take photos from all angles (front, back, sides, top)
- Close-up shots of any existing damage
- Interior photos showing condition
- Timestamp photos with date/time
What to Document:
- • Existing scratches or dents
- • Paint chips or rust spots
- • Tire condition and tread
- • Interior wear and tear
- • Mileage reading
- • Any aftermarket modifications
Leave Gas Tank at 1/4 Full or Less
Keeping your fuel tank low reduces weight and minimizes safety risks during transport. Most carriers require no more than 1/4 tank of gas.
Why Keep Fuel Low:
- Reduces vehicle weight for safer transport
- Minimizes fire hazard during loading
- Meets DOT safety regulations
- Enough fuel for loading/unloading
Fuel Guidelines:
Final Pre-Transport Checklist
Day Before Pickup:
- Confirm pickup time and location
- Gather all necessary documents
- Disable car alarm system
- Make copies of keys
Day of Pickup:
- Be present for inspection
- Review and sign Bill of Lading
- Get driver's contact information
- Keep all documentation safe
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