Learn These Preparation Tips Before You Ship a Car to Another State
Planning ahead of time is essential when shipping a car to another state, folks. There are a few things you should do before you ship your car to make sure it gets to its destination without any problems.
From a thorough cleaning to an inspection by a mechanic, prepping your car for transport not only protects your vehicle but also helps the shipping process go smoothly. Learn more on this link https://www.smart-energy.com/industry-sectors/electric-vehicles/how-to-move-an-electric-car/.
Here are comprehensive tips to help you prepare your car for its interstate journey.
Thorough Cleaning
Before shipping your car, give it a good clean, both inside and out. A spotless exterior allows for easier inspection for scratches, dents, or any existing damage before the vehicle is loaded onto the carrier. Documenting the vehicle’s condition with photos from various angles is crucial.
Cleaning the interior is just as important, as it prevents any personal items from getting lost or causing damage to the vehicle’s interior during transit.
Maintenance and Mechanical Checks
Ensure your car is in good working order. This means checking the battery charge, ensuring that tires are properly inflated, and topping off all fluids. If there are any mechanical issues, they should be resolved before transportation.
Leaks should be fixed, as they can cause damage to your vehicle and others on the carrier. If the car has an alarm system, it should be disabled or provide instructions to the carrier on how to deactivate it if necessary.
Remove Personal Items and Accessories
We want you to know that when shipping a car to another state you should also remove personal items from it. Car shipping companies typically have strict policies against transporting vehicles with personal items inside due to weight restrictions and liability issues. Remove all personal belongings, including GPS devices, radios, and E-Z Pass transponders, to prevent theft or loss.
Additionally, aftermarket modifications such as spoilers, fog lights, or exterior trim should be removed or secured, as these can be damaged during transport.
Don’t Fill Up the Tank
Your car will be driven minimally during loading and unloading, so there’s no need for a full tank of gas. A tank that’s a quarter full is ideal—it’s enough to move the vehicle when needed but not so much that it adds unnecessary weight.
Lock the Car
While it might seem counterintuitive, once your car is loaded on the transport truck, it’s best to lock it to prevent theft during stops. However, you will need to provide the keys to the shipping company so they can move your car as needed for loading and unloading.
Inspect and Document
Before handing off your vehicle, conduct a thorough inspection with a representative from the shipping company. Note any existing damage, no matter how minor, on the bill of lading before you sign it. This document serves as your receipt and a record of the condition of your car before transport.
Insurance Check
Your personal auto insurance may cover your vehicle during transport, but it’s critical to verify this before shipping. Additionally, inquire about the shipping company’s insurance coverage and request a copy of their insurance policy. Understanding the coverage and limits can provide peace of mind.
Prepare for All Weather Conditions
Since your vehicle may travel through various states with different weather conditions, prepare it for the journey. If shipping during winter months, consider adding antifreeze, while in summer, check the coolant levels. Find out more here.
Secure or Remove Loose Parts
Fold back your side-view mirrors and retract the antenna. If you have a convertible, make sure the top is secured tightly to avoid damage from air, moisture, or debris. Remove toll tags and parking passes, which can incur charges as your vehicle is transported past toll readers.
Note Special Instructions
If your vehicle has any peculiarities—like a tricky ignition or a hidden kill switch—write these down for the carrier. This can prevent delays and potential damage from drivers attempting to operate unfamiliar vehicles.
Check for Leaks
If your car has an aggressive leak, it may not be allowed on the top rack of a multi-car carrier because it could drip onto the vehicles below. Get any significant leaks repaired before shipping.
Plan for Delivery
Make sure you have a plan for delivery. Know where the vehicle will be dropped off, whether at a terminal or through door-to-door service. If you cannot be there in person, arrange for a reliable representative to accept delivery on your behalf.
Emergency Preparedness
Though not a requirement, it’s a good idea to leave a spare tire and jack in your vehicle. If your car needs to be driven off the transport for any reason and suffers a flat, this will ensure that it can still be moved.
Contact Info
Make sure the company that ships your car has the right information to get in touch with you, including a backup number in case they need to reach you during the journey.