Shipping your car can be a simple and stress-free process if you take the right steps to prepare your vehicle beforehand. Proper preparation ensures that your car is safely transported and can also help avoid potential delays or issues during the shipping process. At Nationwide Auto Car Transport, we want to make sure your car is ready for its journey. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare your vehicle for shipping.

1. Clean Your Vehicle

Before your car is shipped, give it a good wash. Cleaning your vehicle helps in two ways:

• Inspection: A clean car allows for a more thorough inspection before transport. This ensures that any pre-existing damage is documented, so you can compare the condition of your car upon delivery.
• Visibility: Clean windows, mirrors, and lights will make it easier for the driver to inspect and safely load your vehicle onto the transport carrier.

2. Remove Personal Belongings

Take out any personal items from your car before shipping. This not only prevents them from getting lost or damaged during transport but also helps ensure a safer trip for your vehicle. Most car transport companies, including Nationwide Auto Car Transport, advise against leaving valuables in your car for insurance and safety reasons. This includes:

• Electronics, accessories, or bags
• Any loose objects that could move around and damage the interior

3. Check Fluid Levels and Battery

Before shipping, ensure that your vehicle is in good mechanical condition. This will help ensure a smooth transport process and reduce the risk of delays or issues. Specifically:

• Fluids: Check the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid levels. It’s important to make sure that none of these fluids are leaking, as this could be a concern for the transport company.
• Battery: Ensure that the car’s battery is fully charged. If your vehicle doesn’t start easily, the transport company may face challenges loading it onto the carrier. In case of any issues, it’s always a good idea to have your battery checked before the shipping date.

4. Check Tire Pressure

Check that your car’s tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires can cause problems when loading and unloading your vehicle. If your car’s tires are low, it could be difficult for the transport company to load your vehicle onto the carrier. Tires that are in good condition also help prevent damage to the car during the transport process.

5. Disable the Alarm System

Many vehicles come equipped with alarm systems that can be triggered during loading and unloading. Before shipping, ensure your car’s alarm is turned off to avoid unnecessary disruptions and delays during the transport process. If your car has a special anti-theft system, let the transport company know in advance so they can take extra precautions.

6. Document the Condition of Your Vehicle

Take detailed photos of your vehicle from all angles, including the interior and exterior. Document any scratches, dents, or other damage so that there’s no confusion about the condition of your vehicle before and after shipping. This will provide a clear reference in case there is any dispute about damage during transport.

7. Make Sure Your Car Is Running

Although the transport company will be responsible for handling your vehicle with care, it’s still essential to ensure your car is in running condition. If your vehicle is inoperable for any reason, let the transport company know in advance, as this may require special handling or equipment to move your car. If your car can’t be driven, inform the transport company about its condition so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

8. Leave Only a Small Amount of Gas in the Tank

You don’t need to fill up your gas tank before shipping, but leave about a quarter of a tank. This amount of fuel is sufficient for the driver to load and unload the vehicle, while also keeping the weight of your car to a manageable level during transport. Avoid filling the tank entirely, as the additional weight can increase the overall cost of shipping.

Conclusion:

Preparing your car for shipping can take a little time, but it’s well worth the effort to ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination safely and without delays. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that the shipping process goes smoothly and that your car is ready for the journey ahead.

Ready to ship your car? Contact Nationwide Auto Car Transport today for a free quote, and let us handle the rest!