Preparing for car shipping with any car shipping company requires a preparation, which can be broken down into 10 simple steps.
1. Fill out the easy quote form.
With just a few basic pieces of information, we can recommend a number of qualified car shippers, and help ensure that you have the best companies to make your final selection from.
Simply fill out the short form above and receive instant quotes from fully licensed, bonded, and insured car shipping providers.
2. Select your car shipping service.
Talk to representatives from each of the car shipping companies we recommend, getting a feel for what they offer, how you feel about their customer service, and whether you are comfortable entrusting your car to them for its journey. Start your search early so you can take your time deciding on the best company for your needs.
3. Notify your insurance company and check your coverage.
Although all of our car shipping partners have coverage which extends to the book value of your car, you should also check with your insurance company to see if your own policy will cover your car during its journey and at its new destination. Additional riders and deductibles may apply if your car is damaged during transport with a third party.
4. Get a written contract from your car shipping company which details your agreement.
Verbal conversations with your car shipping company’s sales rep are all well and good, but the only way to make sure that any offers they make are enforceable is to get a written contract which details every aspect of your car’s transport. Make sure to read this carefully, and do not sign the contract until you’re satisfied it contains all the information you have previously agreed on with your car shipping company.
5. Empty your car of all personal possessions and loose objects.
Federal regulations prevent car shipping companies from shipping cars which contain personal belongings, either in the trunk or the main body of the car. What’s more, car shipping companies’ insurance policies also exclude these items. Avoid possible damages to both your car and your personal belongings by removing all loose objects and personal belongings from your car before shipping.
6. Drive your car down to no more than 1/4 tank of gas.
Because charges can be based on weight and mileage, more fuel than 1/4 take can add to your price. This amount of fuel will allow your car shipping company to start and move your car without adding too much weight.
7. Change fluids in preparation for your car’s destination climate.
This can include all easily accessible fluids, and these connections should also be checked for leaks.
8. Inspect your car prior to drop off, documenting any damage the car already has.
Take photographs of the condition of your car before you bring it to the pick-up point. Even if you have to take additional photos once you’re there, you’ll have evidence of the condition of your car which will help as comparison evidence after drop-off.
9. Drop your car off with a full set of keys, conducting a full inspection with the car shipping company representative.
You and the representative from your car shipping company should conduct a full inspection of your car, and both sign off on the car’s condition.
10. Relax while your car is shipped to its new home!
