Shipping a car can be a daunting task, but proper preparation can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Firstly, enquire from the auto transport company that you’ve selected about preparing your car for the shipping process.
Whether you’re shipping your car cross-country or just a few states away, taking the time to properly prepare your car for shipping can prevent any issues from arising during transit.
Here are the steps you should follow to prepare your car for shipping:
I. Cleaning the Car
Before your car is shipped, it’s important to give it a thorough cleaning both inside and out. This includes removing any personal items and valuables, such as GPS systems or CDs, from the car.
Cleaning the car will also help you identify any pre-existing damage that may have been missed before. However, enquire from your car shipping company about the type of trailer that will carry your car. If it is an open auto trailer, your car will most probably collect dirt along the journey.
Additionally, take photos of the car’s exterior and interior to document its condition before shipping.
II. Disabling Alarms and Electronics
Disabling your car’s alarm system and electronics is crucial for the safety of your car during shipping. Alarms can be triggered by vibrations during transit and can cause problems for both the shipper and the driver. Disabling your car’s electronics is also important to prevent any damage from occurring during transit. The process for disabling your car’s alarm system and electronics will vary depending on the make and model of your car.
III. Checking Fluid Levels and Tires
Before shipping, it’s important to check your car’s fluid levels and tire pressure. Low fluid levels can cause problems during transit and tire pressure that is too high or too low can cause uneven wear on the tires. Make sure to check the oil, coolant, and transmission fluid levels, as well as the tire pressure.
IV. Disabling or Removing Antennas and Other Detachable Parts
Antennas, spoilers, and other detachable parts should be either disabled or removed before shipping. These parts can cause damage to your car or the shipping carrier during transit. If you have an antenna or other detachable part that can’t be removed, be sure to let the auto shipping company know in advance so they can take the necessary precautions to protect your car during transit.
V. Securing Loose Items
Make sure to secure any loose items in your car before shipping. This includes items like floor mats, loose change, and sunglasses. Loose items can cause damage to your car during transit, so be sure to secure them properly.
VI. Final Preparations
Before shipping, confirm the pick-up date and time with your auto shipping company. Double-check the car’s condition and make note of any pre-existing damage that was previously documented in photos.
By following these steps, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free car shipping experience. Proper preparation is key to a successful car shipping experience, so be sure to follow these steps carefully.
In conclusion, shipping a car can be a complex process, but proper preparation can make all the difference. By cleaning the car, disabling alarms and electronics, checking fluid levels and tires, disabling or removing antennas and other detachable parts, securing loose items, and finalizing preparations, you can ensure that your car arrives safely and in the same condition as when it was picked up.