How to Prepare A Car for Transport: 7 Essential Steps To Take Before Your Car Transport Booking

Preparing your vehicle for transport might seem like a minor detail, but it can significantly impact the outcome of your move. Proper preparation helps safeguard your vehicle from damage, ensures a smoother transport process, and can even save you money. Whether you’re relocating across the city or shipping your car to another state, we’ve outlined seven steps to prepare your car for transport. Follow these guidelines to avoid common mistakes and guarantee a smooth, hassle-free transport experience.

1. Conduct a Thorough Vehicle Inspection

Shipping companies will normally check your car for damages before loading it onto the truck. Before handing over your vehicle, you should inspect it thoroughly. This involves more than just a casual glance; you should meticulously check for any existing damage. Documenting the current condition of your car protects you against potential disputes over damage incurred during transport.

Tips for Documenting Damage

Photograph Thoroughly: Take high-resolution photos of every part of your vehicle, including close-ups of any existing scratches, dents, or chips. Capture images from multiple angles to ensure that every detail is recorded. Date the photos and present them to your service provider.

Note Down Specifics: Create a written record of any pre-existing issues. This can be in the form of a checklist or a detailed description, and it should include the date of the inspection and the name of the person who performed it.

Use a Video: A video walkthrough of your car can provide additional evidence of its condition and help in the event of any disputes.

2. Ensure Your Vehicle is in Optimal Condition

Maintaining your vehicle’s condition is key for a successful transport. This involves performing routine maintenance and addressing any mechanical issues before your vehicle is transported.

Specific Checks to Include

Fluid Levels: Ensure that all fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid, are topped up. This prevents potential leaks or issues during transport.

Check for Leaks: Look under the vehicle for any signs of leaks. Addressing these issues beforehand can prevent problems during transport.

Secure Loose Parts: Check for any loose or damaged parts, such as roof racks, bumper bars, mirrors, antennas, and trim. Secure or remove these parts to prevent them from getting damaged or causing damage to other vehicles.

Functionality: Verify that all lights, indicators, and signals are working correctly. This can help avoid any issues during loading and unloading.

Items: If you have stuff in your car, make sure it’s packed tightly. Remember, the company won’t accept any responsibility if it goes missing. And the additional weight will cost you. (Our advice: don’t ship a packed car.)

3. Communicate Any Vehicle Issues to the Transport Company

Informing the transport company about any existing issues with your vehicle is crucial. Clear communication helps ensure that the transport service can accommodate your vehicle’s needs and handle any special requirements.

Checklist of What to Communicate

Mechanical Problems: Inform the company about any ongoing mechanical issues or irregularities.

Special Instructions: Provide specific instructions if your vehicle requires special handling or if there are particular concerns.

Contact Information: Share your contact details for any necessary follow-ups or questions during the transport process.

Why It’s Important

Effective communication prevents misunderstandings and ensures that the transport company is prepared to handle your vehicle appropriately, reducing the likelihood of complications during transport.

4. Manage Your Fuel Level Appropriately

Maintaining a low fuel level is an important step in preparing your vehicle for transport. Most transport companies recommend a quarter tank of fuel.

Reasons Behind This Recommendation

Weight Considerations: Excess fuel adds unnecessary weight, which can affect the transport vehicle’s efficiency and cost.

Safety: Lower fuel levels reduce the risk of spills or leaks, which can be hazardous during transport.

5. Charge Your Battery and Check Tyre Pressure

Ensuring your vehicle’s battery is fully charged and that the tyre pressure is correct is essential for a smooth transport process.

Additional Tips

Battery Check: Verify that the battery is in good condition and fully charged. A dead battery can cause delays and additional charges if the vehicle doesn’t start.

Tyre Condition: Check for any signs of wear and ensure that the tyre pressure is at the recommended level. Properly inflated tyres make the loading and unloading process easier and safer.

Electrical System: Test the entire electrical system, including lights, wipers, and the horn, to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

6. Remove Personal Items from the Vehicle

Before transport, you should remove all personal items from your vehicle. Leaving items inside can pose risks.

Types of Items to Remove

Valuables: Remove any valuable items such as electronics, jewellery, or important documents.

Personal Belongings: Take out any personal items that could be damaged or lost during transport.

Emergency Kits: If you have emergency kits or tools, remove them to avoid any potential hazards or complications.

Risks Involved

Theft: Personal items left in the vehicle can be a target for theft.

Damage: Items inside the vehicle can shift during transport and cause damage to the interior.

Insurance Issues: Many transport companies have policies that exclude coverage for personal items, so it’s best to remove them.

For more details on why it’s important to empty your car before transport, check out our tips for emptying your car before transport.

7. Final Preparations Before Car Transport

Before handing over your vehicle, perform a final check to ensure everything is in order.

Comprehensive Final Checklist

Double-Check Documentation: Ensure that you have all necessary paperwork, including the vehicle inspection report and communication records with the transport company.

Verify Transport Arrangements: Confirm the details of your transport booking, including the pickup and delivery times.

Lock and Secure: Make sure your vehicle is locked and that all windows are closed. Remove any removable accessories and secure any loose parts.

Prepare Your Car for Transport and Book Ahead with National Car Movers

Taking the time to prepare a car for transport can make all the difference. From routine checks to careful documentation, these steps ensure your vehicle is well-protected for the journey ahead. When you’re ready, count on National Car Movers for quality service. We handle every vehicle with the utmost care and professionalism. Visit our website or reach out to book your transport, and let us handle the rest.