It can be really overwhelming to think about shipping your car across the state or even the country for the first time. It’s not just about relieving your worries; something as simple as checking if your car is in working condition and being free of external damage, alongside not creating any extra burden for the transport services, is what is essential for a smooth transport process.
This article will elaborate on the steps and procedures to be followed before your car is scheduled for pick up, and as part of increasing the comfort you desire, these tips will eliminate surprise or additional costs, as well as ensure a smooth transport process.
Protective actions decided before transport are both for the car and the account being used for paying transport services, and be able to give the essential peace of mind required.
When you hire a cars transporteur, they are responsible for getting your vehicle from point A to point B. Nonetheless, the way you get your car ready can affect:
- The shape your car will be in upon arrival
- How accurate is the condition report?
- The chances of any delays
- Your transport expenses
Pre-shipping actions help avert issues and resolve potential disputes with the transport company.
Cleaning Your Car Externally and Internally
Cleaning your vehicle improves the chances of evaluating and verifying any physical marks or scratches it may have. The wash should include the bumpers, mirrors, and all the windows of the vehicle. Equally, wiping the vehicle’s interior allows you to identify some fragile or loose items that can be removed to prevent damage during transport.
Dirt is a major contributor to concealing damage. Cleaning your vehicle ensures that you capture the true condition it is in before shipping.
Take Photos of Every Damage
Be in control of the things that are being said about you by taking your own vehicle shots before the transporter arrives. Take photos of any visible scratches, paint, and polish damage, and capture the vehicle’s profile. Ensure the date is recorded and your images are saved in a manner that allows you to retrieve them later.
Make sure you document the condition of your vehicle with time-stamped images to avoid disputes later.
At pickup, the driver will perform a Bill of Lading inspection report. Cross-check your notes and photos with theirs. You will need this documentation if you need to file a damage claim after delivery.
Remove Personal Items and Accessories
Vehicles often have accessories, personal items, and other belongings that need to be forgotten about. Almost all transportation companies will not cover these personal items or accessories under their insurance. Some of these items can also be free-floating, which can damage the car’s interior.
Make sure to:
- Take out all electronics, which include GPS devices and dash cams.
- Toll and parking access cards should also be removed.
- If possible, remove all custom spoilers, roof racks, or bike racks.
Completing this will also reduce the chances of disputes about items that have not been delivered.
Perform Basic Maintenance Checks
Even though loading and unloading will involve driving the vehicle a little distance, the vehicle still needs to be in a safe transport condition. Ensure the following valuation is done vehicle before pickup:
- Battery: Ensure it is fully charged.
- Fluids: Ensure the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid is all at the required levels and topped up if needed.
- Tires: Ensure the vehicle tires are filled with the recommended pressure to avoid damage while being tied down.
- Leaks: To avoid problems while in transport, repair any significant leaks.
Let your transporter know if your car is not operational. Specialized equipment, such as urgent towing, may be needed, which impacts pricing.
Keep the Fuel Tank Low
Leaving the fuel tank roughly one-quarter full enables sufficient gas for the filling and unloading of the vehicle while keeping weight to a minimum. During transport, a lighter car can reduce the costs and increase the safety of the shipment.
Disable Alarms and Anti-Theft Devices
A dismantled device will save a driver from the extra effort of dealing with an alarm that may be triggered while the car is being towed. Disable anti-theft alarms and provide transporters with instructions if anti-theft systems need to be deactivated.
Prepare for Weather and Seasonal Factors
Shipping a vehicle from one region to another may expose it to varying extreme weather conditions. During winter, it is vital to check the level of antifreeze, while during summer, the vehicle’s cooling systems should be inspected.
When transporting high-end cars, it is advisable to use enclosed carrier transport to protect them from rain, snow, dirt, and other debris.
Confirm Pickup and Delivery Details
Before the car is loaded, transporters should check with the customer to confirm the schedule and all other location details to avoid last-minute changes.
If you can’t make it for the delivery, appoint a reliable person to accept the car and check it on your behalf.
Be Acquainted With the Transport Process
No transport is alike. Some carriers provide door-to-door delivery while others require you to meet them at a terminal. Make sure you choose a reputable cars transporteur to work with as they need to clearly outline the process, timelines, and costs.
Understand their insurance policy, driver experience, and tracking systems so you know what to expect.
Set Timelines When Selling Your Vehicle
If you’re planning to sell and transport the car, timing is important. Knowing where I can sell my car for the most money gives me the upper hand on my selling price while ensuring my buyer receives the vehicle in the best shape. Many buyers appreciate it when sellers arrange for car transport, as it reflects on them as responsible sellers.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Avoid the following when getting your car ready for long-distance transport:
- Procrastination: Leaving things to the last minute will lead to carelessly thought-through prep work.
- Filing a lack of documentation: Not having the necessary paperwork will make it impossible to prove the vehicle’s condition prior to shipping.
- Ignoring seasonal delays: Weather, road conditions, and high-demand seasons can all prolong transport time.
Smoother shipping processes stem from being more prepared.
Final thoughts
Cleaning your car isn’t the only thing you need to do in order to get it ready for long-distance shipping. Documenting, securing, and prepping it for the trip is just as important. An experienced car transport professional can help with the details.
Stress-free transport starts with preparation, whether it is coordinating express towing for inoperable cars or locating the best places to sell the car before shipping.
These measures help you to enjoy peace of mind. No matter the distance, taking the steps ensures your car will be in the same condition it was in before the journey.