14 Tips To Get Your Vehicle Ready for Car Shipping

auto transport, car shipping

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Car Inspection

If you are reading this, you might be one of those with no experience in shipping their car. Or you might be someone who would like to get a refresher for your next car shipping. Well, we’ve listed down the most important steps that you need to know and do to get your vehicle ready for auto transport.

Car shipping might not be a part of the plan. But it is inevitable to ask for assistance when you really need to move across the country. You wouldn’t want to risk the integrity of your car by driving it to a far-off State.

Transporting your car is the better choice. The auto transport broker can recommend a trusted driver/carrier who will ship your car to your desired destination. Your car will be protected and insured as much as possible. But before the day of pickup, it is your responsibility to prepare your car for the whole process.

Here are a few simple steps in preparing your vehicle for car shipping:

Inspect the car

Inspect the Car

Thoroughly inspect the outer part of your car for any visible scratches or damage. Do this after cleaning and washing your car as dirt and dust might cover these. Though it is unlikely for your car to be damaged during the shipment, it is better to know the status of your car for anything that can happen.

Clean the exterior

Clean the Exteriors

Wash and wax your car before the day of pick up. It allows you to see any damage on your car’s paint and external peripherals. It is also nice to have a clean car on the day of delivery, right?

Clean the interior

Clean the Interiors

Though this is not necessary, it helps to clean the inside of your car to get a thorough visual of the car’s current state. While cleaning, you can take note of the car’s odometer. Your car shall only be driven to get it on and off the trailer.

Complete the car maintenance

Car Maintenance

If you are shipping a running vehicle, it is important to conduct some basic car maintenance to save you time and effort at the other end of the shipment. Make sure that the battery is fully charged. Check the fluid levels. Check the engine, power steering, brake, and washers. If all is well, then you may move on to the next steps.

Deactivate automatic parking and toll pass

Toll Pass

Do this so that you will not be automatically deducted with toll fees along the way.

Remove your personal stuff

Remove Personal Stuff

This one is a no-brainer. Remove items from your trunk, as well as your car charger and GPS. Removing your personal items lessens the risk for damage, theft or loss. Your car may be tossed around which may increase the likelihood of damage of items inside the car.

Do not refill the tank

Do Not Refuel

It is not required to have a full tank when shipping your car. Having a full tank only adds to the weight. Empty your car tank up to 1/8 full.

Disable car alarms

Disable Alarms

Just in case you forget, deactivate your car alarm. A car alarm out of the blue can be a nuisance to the truck driver.

Remove accessories

Remove Accessories

This one is important. Remove detachable accessories from your car, such as bike or ski racks, luggage rack, folding side mirror, retractable antenna, and spoilers. If you own a convertible, close the top to ensure safety from weather damage.

However, keep your emergency kit, hand tools, spare tire, and license plate in your car.

Check for leaks

Check for Leaks

It is necessary to include this in your car inspection routine. The car carrier might deny the service if you have some oil or transmission fluid leaks. If you detect this early on, have it fixed before the pickup date.

Check the tire pressure

Check the Tire Pressure

Make sure that the tire pressure is just right, not over- or under-inflated. Properly inflated tire decreases the likelihood of tire damage.

Lock the car

Lock the Vehicle

There is no reason for the car carrier to open your car during shipment. So, make sure to have your vehicle’s doors locked prior to pick up to reduce the risks of theft.

Take photos

Take Photos

Take photos to allow you to document the condition of your car prior to pick up. You may take some photos of existing damage. You can also take pictures in different angles and in high resolution. Photos are useful in reporting the car’s condition and in disputing any denied damages.

Make special instructions to the driver

Notes to the Driver

You know your own vehicle more than anyone. Note any special instructions to the driver in written form. This will allow the driver to handle your car safely when driving it on and off the trailer.

Very simple, right? Though these might seem basic and common, doing these steps may let you save time and money on your car shipping. This will also ensure that you will receive your car in very good condition.

For all of your car shipping needs, we are your trusted auto transport broker – Balch Logistics. Stay connected through our various social media channels.

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14 Tips To Get Your Vehicle Ready for Car Shipping