Car shipping has become a popular service for individuals and businesses. In 2023, the U.S. vehicle shipping services industry reached a revenue of $9.9 billion, highlighting its significant growth and demand. With this growth, proper preparation remains one of the most important steps for a successful auto transport experience. Keep reading to learn the 12 key steps our experts shared in preparing your car for transport and how they help ensure a hassle-free process.
1. Clean Your Vehicle
Before shipping, the carrier will conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle both at pickup and upon delivery. This inspection benefits both the customer and the provider by creating a clear record of the vehicle's condition. A clean car offers a more accurate view of its current state, helping to identify any scratches, dents, or cosmetic damage. Clean your vehicle inside and out to facilitate a more detailed and precise inspection. Remove all personal items and clutter from the interior.
2. Document Vehicle Condition
Capture images from various angles to provide complete details to document your car’s condition. Park it in an open space where you can move around and get different perspectives, focusing on any damage. These photos will serve as a reference in case of disputes regarding the vehicle's condition upon delivery. If you notice any mechanical issues or peculiarities, note them. Sharing this information with the shipping company confirms they are aware of your car's specific needs.
3. Remove Personal Belongings
Auto shipping companies usually prohibit personal items inside the vehicle during shipment, though some may allow up to 100 pounds. Remove all personal belongings from the vehicle, including valuables, documents, and sentimental items, as they could be at risk of damage during transit. Deactivate or remove any toll tags or automatic payment devices attached to your vehicle. Leaving these tags activated could trigger toll gates and result in unexpected charges.
4. Perform Maintenance Checks
Properly maintain your car and keep it in good working condition for transport. Start by topping up your engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid to maintain adequate levels. Make sure your vehicle has at least a quarter tank of gas for safe loading and unloading. Confirm that the battery is fully charged and securely mounted, as a functioning battery is vital for the process. Check your tire pressure to verify they are properly inflated. Finally, verify that the spare tire is in its proper place and good condition, as it may be needed during transit.
5. Secure or Remove Accessories
Remove or secure any items that can be detached to prevent damage to your vehicle and its accessories. This includes accessories like antennas, bike racks, spoilers, or custom modifications to avoid potential damage during transport. If you have a convertible, fully secure the top to protect the interior from weather exposure. Additionally, if your side view mirrors are foldable, make sure to fold them in to minimize the risk of damage.
6. Adjust Fuel Level
Keep the fuel level sufficient for easily loading and unloading your car from the trailer. The lighter your car is for the carrier, the better, as it reduces the overall weight. Ideally, you should have no more than a 1/4 tank of gas, as this is sufficient for loading and unloading. However, there’s no need to drain the fuel if it’s a little more. Keeping the fuel level low helps minimize excess weight without compromising the ability to move the vehicle.
7. Prepare Keys and Alarm Systems
Provide the shipping company with a set of keys, including those for the ignition, trunk, and any locked compartments. Without these, it will be difficult for the carrier to load and unload your vehicle. Make sure to turn off any alarm systems to prevent them from accidentally activating during transit. The last thing your driver wants is to deal with a vehicle that has an alarm going off, especially if they can’t easily access the system to disable it. Preparing your keys and alarm systems in advance will help avoid unnecessary delays and complications.
8. Confirm Insurance Coverage
Before shipping your vehicle, confirm that you have adequate insurance coverage for transport. Insurance is necessary to protect your vehicle in case of any damage during transit. If your car is already insured, contact your provider to check if your policy covers vehicle transport or if additional coverage is needed. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the types of insurance the shipping company offers. While basic liability insurance is typically required by law in each state, you may want to consider comprehensive coverage for full protection.
9. Deal with Mechanical issues
Make sure your car is in full working condition before shipping. Check for any engine or mechanical issues, and repair any of them before the shipping date. The shipping company requires the vehicle to be operational for loading and unloading and will not be responsible for mechanical issues. If your car is not running, inform the shipping company ahead of time so they can plan and bring the appropriate equipment. There will be additional charges for inoperable vehicles, so make sure your car is operable before transport.
10. Check State and Local Regulations
Different states may have specific regulations regarding car shipping, such as weight limits, size restrictions, or limitations on certain types of vehicles. Be aware of these rules, especially if you're shipping to or from a state with unique laws. Before proceeding, ask your transport company to ensure they comply with any state or local regulations that may affect the transport process.
11. Finalize Documentation
By thoroughly reviewing the Bill of Lading and Pre-Transport Inspection Report, you protect yourself from potential liability related to car damage. The Bill of Lading serves as both a legally binding contract and a receipt for your car, detailing the terms of transport, the vehicle condition, delivery instructions, and the responsibilities of both the carrier and the customer. The Pre-Transport Inspection Report documents the condition of your vehicle before shipment. Always be present during the inspection to record all existing damages, and retain copies of all documentation for your records.
12. Plan for Delivery
Make sure you're aware of the delivery window and plan accordingly to receive your vehicle. The carrier typically contacts you 24 to 48 hours before delivery to provide a specific time frame. Be ready to inspect your car upon arrival and be available to sign any necessary documents. Even if you've chosen door-to-door service, have a designated delivery area, such as a driveway or a large parking lot, to facilitate a smoother process.
Sum Up
Shipping your car may seem complicated, but with the right knowledge and expert guidance, the process becomes much easier. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can guarantee your car arrives at its destination safely and without issues. Trust BAH Logistics to manage your car shipping needs with the highest level of care and professionalism. Get a quote today and start your car shipping journey with confidence.
