How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping: 10 Essential Tips
Shipping a vehicle is an excellent alternative to driving long distances, but proper preparation is important.
Whether you’re arranging open transport, enclosed shipping, or interstate vehicle delivery, taking a few simple steps can help make the process more efficient.
At Routevera Auto Shipping, we recommend preparing your vehicle before its scheduled pickup.
Here are ten important tips to consider.
1. Wash Your Vehicle
Cleaning your car before transportation makes it easier to inspect the exterior.
Dirt and dust can hide existing scratches, dents, or paint damage.
A clean vehicle allows you and the carrier to document its condition more accurately.
2. Take Detailed Photographs
Before pickup, photograph your vehicle from multiple angles.
Include the front, rear, sides, wheels, roof, and any areas with existing damage.
These photographs can provide useful documentation if you need to compare the vehicle’s condition at delivery.
3. Remove Personal Belongings
Remove unnecessary personal items from the passenger compartment and trunk.
Many carriers restrict or prohibit personal belongings because of weight limitations, safety requirements, and insurance exclusions.
Items left inside a vehicle may not be covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance.
Always confirm the carrier’s rules before shipping.
4. Check for Fluid Leaks
Inspect your vehicle for oil, coolant, transmission fluid, or other leaks.
Significant leaks may create safety concerns during loading and transportation.
If you notice a problem, inform the transport provider before pickup.
5. Check the Battery and Tires
Make sure your vehicle’s battery is adequately charged and its tires are properly inflated.
A vehicle that can be safely started, steered, and moved is generally easier to load and unload.
If the vehicle is inoperable, notify the shipping provider so appropriate equipment can be arranged.
6. Keep the Fuel Level Low
Carriers often recommend keeping approximately one-quarter of a tank of fuel, although specific requirements vary.
A lower fuel level reduces unnecessary weight while providing enough fuel for loading and unloading.
Follow the instructions supplied by your assigned carrier.
7. Secure or Remove Loose Accessories
Remove detachable accessories when possible.
These may include removable antennas, exterior storage attachments, and other loose equipment.
Secure convertible tops, roof accessories, and other components that could move during transportation.
Disclose aftermarket modifications that affect the vehicle’s dimensions or loading requirements.
8. Disable Unnecessary Alarms
Vehicle alarms can sometimes activate during transportation.
If possible, disable unnecessary alarm features or provide instructions to the carrier for safely deactivating them.
Do not disable essential vehicle safety systems.
9. Prepare Your Keys and Documentation
Have the appropriate vehicle keys available for the carrier.
You or your authorized representative should also be ready to review the vehicle inspection report and Bill of Lading.
Keep copies of important transportation documents for your records.
10. Be Available for Pickup and Delivery
Make sure you or an authorized adult can coordinate the vehicle handover.
During pickup, review the vehicle’s condition and confirm that existing damage is accurately recorded.
At delivery, inspect the vehicle before signing the final documentation.
If you notice new damage, document it immediately and follow the carrier’s claims procedures.
Additional Tips for Long-Distance Auto Shipping
For interstate transportation, confirm your contact information and ensure the carrier can reach you.
Keep your pickup and delivery dates flexible when possible, as weather and road conditions can affect transportation schedules.
If you’re shipping a luxury or classic automobile, ask whether enclosed transportation would be appropriate.
You should also review the carrier’s insurance information, payment terms, and any additional service requirements before booking.
Ready to Ship Your Car?
Preparing your vehicle properly can help reduce avoidable problems and support a smoother pickup and delivery experience.
Routevera Auto Shipping helps customers explore vehicle transportation options for local and long-distance shipping needs.
Contact Routevera Auto Shipping at (619) 903-6298 to request your car shipping quote today.