Shipping your car across the country requires more than just booking a transport service. Proper preparation ensures a smooth shipping process and protects your vehicle from potential damage during transit.

In this guide, we’ll cover the essential steps to prepare your car for long-distance shipping, from cleaning and inspection to documentation and final handoff.

🚿 1. Clean Your Car Inside and Out

Start by giving your car a thorough wash. A clean exterior makes it easier to spot any existing scratches, dents, or paint chips.

Why It Matters:

• Clear visibility for the pre-shipping inspection.
• Easier to identify any new damage upon delivery.

💡 Tip: Avoid waxing the car before transport. Wax can make it harder to spot minor scratches.

📸 2. Document Your Car’s Condition

Take detailed photos of your car from multiple angles, including close-ups of any existing damage.

Checklist for Photos:

✅ Exterior (front, back, sides, roof)
✅ Wheels and tires
✅ Undercarriage (if possible)
✅ Interior (dashboard, seats)

💡 Tip: Use a smartphone with a timestamp feature to document the car’s condition before pickup.

🎒 3. Remove Personal Belongings

Auto transport companies are not responsible for personal items left inside the vehicle. Remove:

• Electronics (chargers, GPS devices)
• Clothing and accessories
• Important documents
• Loose items in the trunk and glove box

💡 Tip: Leaving personal items inside the car can add weight and increase shipping costs.

🔧 4. Check for Mechanical Issues

While your car doesn’t need to be in perfect running condition for shipping, it should be functional for loading and unloading.

Mechanical Checklist:

✅ Battery fully charged
✅ Tire pressure at recommended levels
✅ Fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid)
✅ No leaks under the car

💡 Tip: If your car has mechanical issues, inform the transport company in advance. Non-running vehicles require special equipment and incur extra fees.

🔑 5. Disable Alarm Systems

If your car’s alarm goes off during transport, the driver won’t be able to silence it. Disable all alarm systems before shipping.

💡 Tip: If you can’t disable the alarm, provide clear instructions to the transport company.

⛽ 6. Keep the Gas Tank Low

A full gas tank adds unnecessary weight to the vehicle. Keep the tank about 1/4 full—enough for loading, unloading, and short-distance driving.

💡 Tip: Less fuel reduces the risk of leaks during transport.

🔑 7. Prepare Spare Keys

Hand over a set of spare keys to the transport driver. Never provide your only set, just in case they get lost.

💡 Tip: Keep your primary set with you for peace of mind.

📜 8. Check Insurance Coverage

While transport companies provide basic insurance, it’s wise to confirm the coverage details.

What to Ask:

• How much coverage is included?
• Does the insurance cover total loss or partial damage?
• How do you file a claim if damage occurs?

💡 Tip: Consider purchasing additional coverage for high-value vehicles.

📅 9. Confirm Pickup and Delivery Details

Before shipping day, confirm the pickup and delivery locations, estimated dates, and contact details of the carrier.

Two Common Transport Methods:

🚪 Door-to-Door: The carrier picks up and delivers the car directly to your specified addresses.
📍 Terminal-to-Terminal: You drop off and pick up the car at designated locations.

💡 Tip: Choose door-to-door if convenience matters more than cost.

📝 10. Review the Bill of Lading

The Bill of Lading (BOL) is the official shipping contract. It includes:

• Vehicle condition report
• Pickup and delivery locations
• Insurance details

Review the BOL carefully before signing. Upon delivery, inspect the car and compare its condition to the initial report.

💡 Tip: If you notice any damage, document it immediately and note it on the BOL before signing.

🌟 Final Tips for Smooth Car Shipping

✅ Book your shipment at least 2 to 4 weeks in advance.
✅ Choose open transport for affordability or enclosed transport for extra protection.
✅ Stay in touch with the carrier for updates.
✅ Be present (or have someone you trust) at pickup and delivery.

🛡️ Conclusion: Ensure a Stress-Free Car Shipping Experience

Proper preparation is the key to a smooth car shipping experience. By cleaning, documenting, and checking your vehicle before transport, you can protect yourself from potential disputes and ensure your car arrives safely.

With these tips, you’ll be ready for a stress-free long-distance car shipping process.