Shipping your car can be a smooth and stress-free experience, but only if you prepare it properly. Whether you’re relocating, buying a vehicle from another state, or sending a car to a family member, knowing how to prepare your car for shipping helps protect your vehicle and avoid unnecessary delays or extra charges. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to get your car ready for transport so it arrives safely at its destination.
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1. Wash Your Car Thoroughly
Start by giving your vehicle a complete wash. While this may seem unnecessary, cleaning your car helps you clearly see and document any existing scratches, dents, or paint chips. A clean car makes inspection easier for both you and the carrier. Dirt and dust can hide damage, which could lead to disputes during delivery.
Pro Tip: Avoid waxing your vehicle right before shipping, as wax can temporarily hide minor scratches that need to be documented.
2. Document Existing Damage
Before handing over your car, conduct a detailed inspection.
- Take clear photos from multiple angles.
- Capture close-ups of any dents, scratches, or cosmetic damage.
- Photograph the odometer reading.
- Record the date and time.
This documentation serves as proof of your vehicle’s condition before shipping. When the driver performs the pickup inspection, compare notes and ensure all existing damage is listed on the Bill of Lading (inspection report).
Read more: Car Shipping Requirements
3. Remove Personal Items
Most auto transport companies do not allow personal belongings inside the vehicle. In fact, leaving items inside may:
- Increase vehicle weight
- Void insurance coverage
- Result in additional fees
- Cause damage during transit
Remove all personal belongings, including:
- GPS devices
- Toll passes
- Important documents
- Electronics
- Loose interior accessories
4. Perform Basic Maintenance Checks
Your vehicle doesn’t need a full service before shipping, but it should be in good working condition.
Make sure to:
- Check tire pressure
- Ensure the battery is fully charged
- Top off essential fluids
- Check for fluid leaks
- Confirm brakes are functioning properly
If your car is not operational, inform the shipping company in advance. Non-running vehicles require special equipment and may cost more to transport.
5. Leave the Gas Tank About 1/4 Full
You don’t need a full tank of gas before shipping your vehicle, and it shouldn’t be completely empty either. A quarter tank is ideal because it reduces the vehicle’s overall weight, provides enough fuel for loading and unloading, and helps minimize safety risks during transport.
6. Disable Alarms and Toll Tags
Car alarms can accidentally activate during transport due to movement or vibration, which may drain your battery and cause unnecessary inconvenience for the driver. To prevent issues, disable your car alarm system before shipping. It’s also important to remove or deactivate any toll tags to avoid unwanted charges while your vehicle is being transported.
7. Secure or Remove Loose Parts
Inspect your vehicle for any loose components.
Secure or remove:
- Custom mirrors
- Fog lights
- Antennas
- Roof racks
- Convertible tops (make sure they’re tightly closed)
If your vehicle has low ground clearance, inform the carrier beforehand to ensure proper loading equipment is used.
8. Lock the Car
Once your vehicle is ready for transport, it should be securely locked to protect it during transit. However, you must provide the driver with a full set of keys so they can load, unload, and move the vehicle as needed. Be sure to include any special ignition keys, key fobs, or anti-theft device keys required to start or operate the vehicle to avoid delays during pickup or delivery.
9. Understand the Insurance Coverage
Before shipping your vehicle, take time to carefully review the transport company’s insurance policy. Ask what the insurance specifically covers, whether there is a deductible, and if there are any exclusions that could limit protection.
It’s also a smart idea to contact your own auto insurance provider to confirm whether your policy offers coverage during transport. Having clear answers about insurance details will give you greater confidence and peace of mind throughout the shipping process.
10. Be Present at Pickup and Delivery
Whenever possible, be present during both pickup and delivery inspections.
At pickup:
- Review the Bill of Lading carefully.
- Confirm all existing damage is noted.
At delivery:
- Inspect your vehicle thoroughly before signing.
- Compare the condition with your pre-shipping photos.
- Note any new damage immediately.
Signing the final paperwork confirms you accept the vehicle in its delivered condition.
If you’re ready to move forward, we’re here to help with reliable New Jersey car shipping services tailored to your needs. Whether you require secure classic car shipping or premium enclosed car shipping, our team makes the entire process safe, smooth, and stress-free.
Read more: Enclosed Car Transport vs Open Car Transport Protection
Make Car Shipping Stress-Free With E&G Elite Logistics
Preparing properly is the key to safely shipping your car without delays or unexpected issues. From cleaning and documenting your vehicle to checking fluids and removing personal items, a few simple steps can make the entire process smooth and stress-free.
If you’re ready to ship a vehicle, trust E&G Elite Logistics to handle the job with professionalism and care. As a BBB-accredited company, they provide reliable statewide, cross-country, and international transport solutions designed to make shipping your car simple, secure, and hassle-free. Get started today and move your vehicle with confidence.
