How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport

Preparing your vehicle properly before shipping ensures a smooth pickup, safe transit, and easy delivery. Follow this checklist to get your car ready for transport.

Pre-Transport Checklist

1. Clean Your Vehicle

Wash the exterior so you can clearly see and document the current condition. A clean vehicle makes it easier to identify any pre-existing scratches, dents, or marks during the inspection.

2. Document the Condition

Take photos of your vehicle from all angles — front, back, both sides, roof, and any existing damage. Include close-ups of scratches, dents, or chips. This gives you a clear record of the vehicle's condition before transport.

3. Remove Personal Belongings

Remove all personal items from the vehicle interior and trunk. Transport carriers are not liable for personal belongings, and loose items can shift during transit and cause damage to the interior.

4. Check Fluid Levels and Battery

Ensure all fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid) are at proper levels. The battery should be fully charged. If the vehicle has any leaks, let us know in advance.

5. Keep the Gas Tank at 1/4 Full

A quarter tank of gas is sufficient for loading and unloading. A full tank adds unnecessary weight and cost.

6. Disable Aftermarket Alarms

If your vehicle has an aftermarket alarm system, disable it before pickup. Alarms that go off during transport can drain the battery and cause delays.

7. Check Tire Pressure

Ensure all tires are properly inflated. The vehicle needs to be able to roll on and off the carrier safely.

8. Remove or Secure Accessories

Remove or fold in antennas, side mirrors (if they extend), bike racks, spoilers, or any aftermarket accessories that could be damaged or cause clearance issues.

9. Note Mechanical Issues

If the vehicle has any mechanical issues — such as not starting, transmission problems, or parking brake issues — let us know when booking so we can arrange the appropriate equipment.

10. Provide Keys

You'll need to provide a set of keys to the driver at pickup. The keys will be returned to you at delivery.

What Happens at Pickup

When our driver arrives:

1. They'll do a joint inspection of the vehicle with you
2. Both parties sign the Bill of Lading documenting the vehicle's condition
3. The vehicle is loaded onto the carrier
4. You receive confirmation and can track the shipment

Ready to Ship?

Get your free quote → or call (204) 332-1935.