If you’re relocating, purchasing a vehicle online, or even sending one to a loved one, shipping a car cross-country can be very helpful and efficient. While it can be very beneficial, many car owners struggle with how to prepare their vehicle for transport.
A step-by-step checklist is provided below, which aims to cover everything required for a car owner to complete before a car is picked up by the transporter. In order to avoid issues with carriers, proper preparation enhances a smooth, damage-free delivery.
Why Preparation Matters
Whether you’re working with local or national car shipping companies, taking time to prepare your vehicle helps:
- Prevent unwanted damage during transport.
Speed up pickup and delivery times.
Lower liability in case of disputes.
Fulfill legal requisites imposed by the carrier.
Preparing Your Vehicle: Step-by-Step Checklist
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Clean Your Car Inside Out
Washing your car properly before shipping ensures a cleaner exterior, which will highlight scratches, dents, or paint chips that can be documented during the inspection.
Vehicle Cleaning Recommendations:
- Interiores
- Including phone holders or air fresheners, take out loose objects, and any personal belongings.
- If applicable, unseat the seats.
This assists in avoiding damage and ensures the shipper complies with safety standards.
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Look for Existing Damages
Conduct a thorough inspection and note down all the following:
- Scratches
- Dents
- Windows that are cracked
- Rust Spots
Take clear, time-stamped pictures from every angle. Share these with the shipping company and keep copies for yourself as well.
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Look Over Mechanical Problems and Check for Any Leaks
Fluid leaks, battery life, tire pressure, and brake functionality are all things one should keep an eye on.
Most vehicle transport services expect the vehicle to be functioning properly. If there are problems, inform the shipping company beforehand. Vehicles out of commission can be expensive.
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Take off Any Personal Items of Great Value
- During transport, belongings such as:
- Luggage
- Important documents
- Garage door openers
- Toll passes
Keeping these items stored in cars may result in fines or charges.
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Anti-Theft Devices and Toll Vehicles
Make sure to:
- Deactivate cars’ anti-theft devices
- Remove toll collection devices like EZ-Pass or SunPass.
- Avoids toll fees while also avoiding security alerts during transport.
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Secure or Remove Loose Parts
Anything that is fragile or could get damaged should be secured or removed. This includes:
- Spoilers
- Fog lights
- Antennae ( retract or remove if applicable)
- Custom racks
Additionally, to mitigate damages, fold in the side mirrors.
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Check Fuel and Fluid Levels
You don’t need a full tank for car shipping. In fact, it’s preferable to keep it at 1/4 to 1/8 of a tank. This makes the vehicle lighter, which reduces transport weight and risk.
Also, check that other fluids (oil, coolant, brake) are at safe levels.
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Get a Copy of the Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is an inspection document that gets signed by you and the carrier. It acts as:
- A Receipt of Payment.
- Condition report of the vehicle during transport.
- Proof of liability in case of damage.
Make sure to go through the process of reviewing and photographing the BOL at pickup and delivery.
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Have an Extra Set of Keys Ready
A lot of car shipping companies require a set of keys to move the vehicle. If you don’t have a spare set, then make a copy of your ignition, door, and trunk keys.
Your only set of keys should never be handed to a shipping provider.
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Getting Ready for Pickup and Delivery
Confirm:
- The exact pickup date and time, along with the location
- Who will hand over as well as receive the vehicle
- Mode of payment and any other pending documents
Ensure you or a trusted representative is available to meet the carrier who will hand over the delivery paperwork, including signature forms, and take delivery photos.
Bonus Tip: Preparing for Car Shipping After an Online Purchase
In case you purchased a vehicle online through How to Buy a Car on Carvana, you will most probably need car shipping services to transport it to your location.
Ensure that the seller or platform offers:
- Vehicle condition report accuracy
- Transport company coordination for pickup
- Title and registration documents
For delivery, retain all documentation needed for delivery and vehicle inspection, along with the vehicle inspection and documentation process to be completed before the delivery is finalized.
Questions About Prep Work for Car Shipping
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Is it allowed to include personal items in the car that is being shipped?
Not really. Most car carriers do not accept personal items due to insurance and DOT regulations. Some may allow 100 lbs in the trunk, but check with your carrier in advance.
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What should I do in the event that my car sustains damage during transport?
In the case of vehicle damage, notify the driver immediately, and submit a claim along with the Bill of Lading. An established vehicle shipping company will possess cargo insurance to mitigate such risk.
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Is it possible for me to have a non-running automobile shipped?
Of course. However, this information must be provided ahead of time. Non-operational vehicles require special equipment and prosthetic limbs, as well as incur additional charges.
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When should I get my car ready for transport?
Get ready 3-5 days before your vehicle is slated for pickup. This allows you time to deal with any maintenance work as well as gather paperwork and personal items.
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Does the customer have to be present during pickup or delivery?
It is preferred. You may, however, appoint someone else to sign the relevant documents and examine the vehicle in your absence.
Conclusion
Transporting cars can be a walk in the park if you come prepared. Following this checklist ensures you avoid your vehicle getting delayed, curbside pickup, and helps you pack everything stress-free.
For those relocating across the country or just purchasing a vehicle online, following these steps guarantees protection during transport and reliability with motor carrier services.
If you want to know how to purchase a vehicle over the internet, feel free to read our comprehensive piece on How to Buy a Car on Carvana for a smooth end-to-end journey from buying to receiving the vehicle.