If you have an auto shipment scheduled and are not sure how to prepare your car for transport, you are in the right place! While our drivers handle most of the work during pick-up, there are a few simple steps you can take ahead of time to make the process smoother and ensure everything goes as planned.

Remove Personal Belongings

While we do allow certain items to stay in your car during shipment, we highly recommend removing personal belongings, especially valuable or sentimental items. While your vehicle is covered by our liability insurance during transport, this coverage does not extend to any items left inside the car. Additionally, in the event of an emergency or inspection, personal belongings could be in the way or cause delays. It is best to pack up your things and remove them before the pick-up.

Remove External Additions

If your car has any external accessories, such as antennas, roof racks, or spoilers, we recommend removing them before shipping. These items can get damaged during transit or make the car harder to secure on the carrier. Additionally, removing external accessories helps reduce the risk of delays or complications during the loading and unloading process. If you are unsure whether something should be removed, it is best to ask.

Wash Your Car

At first glance, washing your car might not seem crucial for shipping, but it plays an important role in the process. A clean car will make the walk-around inspection easier for both you and the driver. This inspection is vital for documenting any pre-existing damage on your vehicle. Having a clean surface allows both parties to spot dents, scratches, or other issues more clearly, ensuring the damage is noted on the Bill of Lading (your car shipping receipt). This document serves as a baseline for comparison when your vehicle is delivered. The more thorough the inspection, the better protected you are in case any new damage occurs during transport.

Keep the Gas Tank at a Quarter Full

For a smooth transport, your car should have approximately a quarter of a gas tank. This amount is ideal because it provides enough fuel for loading and unloading, while keeping the vehicle light enough for efficient transport. A full tank of gas could add unnecessary weight, which could impact fuel efficiency and handling during transport. On the other hand, having too little gas could cause issues if the driver needs to move your car more than expected. If you are shipping an electric vehicle, aim for around a 50% charge to ensure the car can be loaded and unloaded safely.

We understand that shipping a car can seem daunting, but following these simple steps will ensure everything goes smoothly. If you have any questions or need assistance with preparation, do not hesitate to reach out. Our customer service team is always here to help you every step of the way!