When it comes to how to prepare your car for transport, there are a few key things you need to keep in mind. Whether you’re moving across the country or just need to get your car from point A to point B, proper preparation is essential to ensure a smooth door-to-door car transport experience.
Many people overlook the importance of getting their car ready for transport, assuming that it’s as simple as handing over the keys and letting the transport company take care of the rest. However, taking the time to properly prepare your vehicle can save you a lot of headaches down the road.
Before shipping your car, take some time to prepare it for the journey. Start by giving it a good cleaning, then inspect it from top to bottom. Make sure to secure any loose items and document any existing damage – it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Key Takeaways:
- Choose a Reputable Transport Company: Research thoroughly to find a well-reviewed, licensed, and insured car shipping company.
- Prepare Your Car: Clean your car, inspect for damage, remove personal items, check for leaks, disable alarms, and secure or remove custom accessories.
- Maintain Car Conditions: Ensure the car is in good working order, keep tire pressure correct, leave the gas tank 1/4 full, and remove toll tags.
- Schedule and Communicate: Schedule your transport with all necessary details and stay flexible with dates. Keep in touch with the transport company throughout the process.
- Set Realistic Expectations: Understand the pick-up, transit, and delivery process. Be prepared for potential minor damages and stay realistic about transport timelines.
How to Prepare Your Car for Transport: 3 Steps and 16 Tips for a Smooth Move
Shipping your car is a smart and convenient option, whether you need to ship your car across-country because of a new job or sending your college kid off with reliable wheels. But before handing over the keys, there’s some important prep work to tackle.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 3 essential steps and 16 practical tips to ensure your car is ready to roll onto that auto transport trailer. Whether it’s choosing the right company, preparing your car, or setting realistic expectations, these actionable tips will make your car shipping experience smooth and stress-free.
Choose the Right Auto Transport Company
The first step in how to prepare your car for transport is selecting a reputable car shipping company. While it may be tempting to search for “auto transport near me” and choose the cheapest option, this approach can often lead to unexpected challenges. Instead, when thinking “How do I prepare my car for shipping?” choose a company with a proven track record, proper licensing, and comprehensive insurance coverage. At Geyers Towing, we pride ourselves on delivering reliable, high-quality auto transport services that give our customers peace of mind throughout the shipping process.
1. Research to Select a Reputable Car Shipping Company
Do your homework. How to prepare your car for transport is not an easy thing. for Look for an auto transport company like Geyers Towing in Maryland with a solid track record, plenty of positive reviews, and proper licensing and insurance. Check out their rating with the Better Business Bureau and ask for references to call.
2. Get Multiple Quotes
Don’t just settle for the first quote you get. Shop around and compare prices from several car shipping companies. Keep in mind that the lowest price isn’t always the best deal, as suspiciously low quotes may indicate cut corners on insurance or subpar equipment.
3. Verify Licensing and Insurance
Before entrusting your car to a transport company, make sure that they are fully licensed and insured. A reputable company should have a valid license from the Department of Transportation (DOT) and be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can verify this by requesting their DOT number and checking it on the FMCSA website.
4. Schedule Your Appointment
Once you’ve settled on an auto transport company, the next thing to do in how to prepare your car for transport is schedule your pickup. Be prepared with all the necessary details about your vehicle – make, model, year, and any modifications. Choose your pickup and drop-off locations and nail down a timeframe that works with your schedule. Resources like this car transport guide can help you navigate the logistics effectively. Keep in mind that interstate car transport can be affected by weather and traffic.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipping
You’ve booked your auto transport. Your pickup date is on the calendar. Now the real work begins in how to prepare your car for transport. Here is how to get your car prepared and ready to ship.
5. Clear Out Personal Items and Accessories
Auto transport companies typically have strict policies about what can and cannot be left in your car during shipping. To avoid damage or loss, remove all personal belongings, including phone chargers, sunglasses, spare change, and GPS devices. These items are not covered under the company’s insurance, and clearing them out helps protect your car’s interior and ensures compliance with transport requirements.
Likewise, remove or secure custom accessories like spoilers, roof racks, and specialty wheels that could be damaged during loading and unloading. If removal isn’t possible, make sure these accessories are tightly fastened and inform the transport company so they can take extra precautions. Taking these steps ensures your car is ready for a smooth and damage-free transport experience.
6. Check for Fluid Leaks
Give your car a once-over and check for any fluid leaks. A small drip may not seem like a big deal, but it can turn into a major issue during transport. If you spot any leaks, get them fixed before shipping day to avoid your car leaking onto vehicles below it on the trailer.
7. Disable Alarms
To prepare a car for transport it’s important that if your car has an alarm system, be sure to disable it before transport. You don’t want your alarm going off in the middle of the night while your car is on the truck, annoying the driver and potentially damaging sensitive audio equipment. Check your owner’s manual or ask your auto transport company for guidance if you’re unsure how to disable your alarm.
8. Take Photos of Existing Damage
Before your car gets loaded onto the trailer, do a thorough walk-around and note any existing damage. Take clear photos of scratches, dings, and dents to give you a baseline to compare against when your car is delivered, just in case something happens during transport. Share these photos with your auto transport company for their records and have them ready if you need to file an insurance claim.
Final Preparations Before Transport
9. Check Tire Pressure and Inspect for Fluid Leaks
Preparing your car for transport means ensuring it’s in optimal condition to avoid potential issues during loading, unloading, or transit. Start by maintaining proper tire pressure at the recommended PSI. Properly inflated tires protect your wheels and suspension from unnecessary wear and tear, minimizing the risk of damage during handling.
Next, give your car a thorough inspection for any fluid leaks. Even a small drip can become a significant issue during transport, potentially causing damage to other vehicles on the trailer. Address any leaks promptly before shipping day to ensure a smooth and worry-free transport experience.
10. Leave Gas Tank 1/4 Full
You’re getting ready to ship your car, and one crucial step is to check your gas tank. Aim for about a quarter-full tank – this provides the perfect balance between having enough fuel for handling and avoiding excess weight that can slow down your shipment.
11. Make Sure The Car is in Working Condition
If your car isn’t running, let your auto transport company know ahead of time as they may need special equipment to load an inoperable vehicle. In general, it’s best to ship a car that’s in good working order to avoid unnecessary complications.
12. Remove Toll Tags
If you have an electronic toll collection device like E-ZPass, remove it from your vehicle before shipping to avoid racking up charges as your car passes through tolls on the transport truck.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Car Shipping Experience
Welcome to the final stretch. Here are a few expert pointers to help you navigate the remainder of your auto transport journey with confidence.
13. Choose Enclosed Transport for High-Value Vehicles
If you’re shipping a luxury vehicle, a classic car, or other valuable asset, consider upgrading to enclosed transport. Your car will be protected from the elements and road debris during shipping, which is a good idea for high-end vehicles despite the additional cost.
14. Be Flexible with Pickup and Delivery Dates
Auto transport is subject to variables like traffic, weather, and road construction. While your car shipping company will do its best to stick to the schedule, it’s important to be flexible and not book your flight for the same day your car is supposed to arrive, as delays can happen.
15. Communicate with the Transport Company
Throughout the car shipping process, stay in touch with your transport company. Provide them with accurate contact information and keep them in the loop if your plans change. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or concerns, as a good auto transport company will be happy to keep you informed every step of the way.
16. Have Realistic Expectations
It’s important to have realistic expectations when shipping your car. While damage during transport is rare, minor dings or scratches can happen, especially with open carrier shipping. To better understand your options and the role of insurance, you can learn more about tow companies liability for damages. Prepare yourself mentally for this possibility and remember that auto transport insurance exists for a reason
Shipping a car can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little preparation and the right auto transport company, you can sit back and relax while your vehicle makes its way to its new home.
What to Expect During the Car Shipping Process
You’ve done the prep work and your car is ready to go. Here’s what you can expect on pickup day and beyond.
Vehicle Pick-up
When the car carrier arrives, the driver will do a thorough inspection of your vehicle, noting any existing damage on the bill of lading. You’ll sign off on this report, so make sure it’s accurate. The driver will then load your car onto the auto transport trailer and secure it for transport, giving you a chance to ask any last-minute questions and get an estimated delivery date.
Transit Time
How long your car will be in transit depends on the distance it’s traveling and the shipping method you choose. Coast-to-coast transport can take up to two weeks, while shorter trips may only be a few days. Your auto transport company should keep you updated on your car’s progress and let you know of any delays.
Vehicle Delivery
When your car reaches its destination, the driver will unload it from the transport trailer and do another inspection. Compare the vehicle’s condition to the bill of lading from pickup and note any new damage. In the unlikely event that something happened during transport, you’ll have the documentation you need to file a claim with the auto transport company’s insurance.
How To Prepare Your Car For Transport: Final Thoughts
Preparing your car for transport may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the simple steps outlined in this post, you can ensure that your vehicle arrives at its destination safely and without any unnecessary complications.
Vehicles in good working condition get VIP treatment during transport. So, do yourself a favor and document any existing damage, strap down loose items, and give your car a quick once-over before handing over the keys.
So, whether you’re moving across the country or just need to get your car from one place to another, keep these tips in mind when it comes to how to prepare your car for transport. With a little bit of preparation and attention to detail, you can sit back and relax, knowing that your car is in good hands.
Schedule Your Car Transport with Geyers Towing
At Geyers Towing, we specialize in reliable and professional auto transport services designed to make your experience as seamless as possible. With careful preparation and our trusted service, you can rest assured that your car is in good hands.
For more information or to schedule a car transport, contact Geyers Towing today and let us handle the details so you can focus on what matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Prepare Your Car for Transport
How do I prepare my car for shipping with an auto transport company?
To prepare your car for shipping, follow these steps:
- Research and choose a reputable auto transport company.
- Remove all personal items and secure or remove custom accessories.
- Check for fluid leaks and ensure the tires are properly inflated.
- Leave the gas tank about 1/4 full to minimize weight while allowing for handling.
- Take photos of your car to document its condition before shipping.
By taking these steps, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free transport experience.
What should I remove from my car before shipping it?
Before shipping your car, remove all personal items such as phone chargers, GPS devices, sunglasses, and spare change. Also, take out toll tags to avoid unnecessary charges during transit. For custom accessories like spoilers or roof racks, either remove them or secure them tightly to prevent damage during loading and unloading.
Why is it important to check for fluid leaks before transporting my car?
Checking for fluid leaks is crucial because even small drips can turn into significant issues during transport. Leaking fluids can damage other vehicles on the trailer or pose safety risks. Address any leaks promptly before shipping day to avoid complications.
What can I expect during the car shipping process?
Here’s what you can expect during the car shipping process:
- Vehicle Pickup: The driver will inspect your car, note its condition on the bill of lading, and secure it on the trailer.
- Transit Time: The timeline depends on the distance and method of transport. Coast-to-coast transport may take up to two weeks, while shorter distances take a few days.
- Vehicle Delivery: Upon arrival, the driver will inspect the car again with you. Compare its condition to your pre-shipping photos to ensure no damage occurred.
Where can I find an auto transport guide to help me prepare my car for transport?
For detailed information and practical tips, check out an auto transport guide. It provides insights on choosing the right transport company, preparing your car, and understanding the shipping process.
