Transporting your car over long distances can be a stressful and complex process. Whether you’re moving to a new state, purchasing a car from a distant dealership, or shipping a vehicle for other reasons, ensuring that your car is ready for the journey is essential. Preparing your car for long-distance transport involves several key steps to protect your vehicle, ensure it runs smoothly, and comply with transport regulations. Below, we’ll cover crucial preparations, including inspecting and documenting your vehicle’s condition, securing and removing personal items, and checking your vehicle’s maintenance and compliance.
Inspect and Document Your Vehicle’s Condition
Before your car is shipped, it’s important to inspect and document its condition. This not only ensures that your vehicle is protected during transport, but also provides a reference point in case of damage during transit.
Step 1: Conduct a Thorough Inspection
Begin by walking around your vehicle and checking for any existing damage, such as scratches, dents, or chipped paint. Pay close attention to the exterior, including the body, windows, mirrors, tires, and undercarriage. Take notes on any issues you find, as these could help resolve any disputes if your vehicle is damaged during the transport process.
Step 2: Take Photos and Videos
A picture is worth a thousand words when it comes to documenting your vehicle’s condition. Take detailed photos and videos from multiple angles, capturing both the interior and exterior. Be sure to photograph areas of the car that may be prone to damage, such as the bumpers, roof, and doors. This visual documentation will serve as proof of the car’s condition before it is shipped.
Step 3: Keep a Copy of the Inspection Report
If the auto transport company conducts its own inspection upon pick-up, ask for a copy of the inspection report. This will provide an official record of the vehicle’s pre-transport condition, which is crucial for filing claims in the event any damage is incurred during the shipping process.
Step 4: Note the Odometer Reading
Make sure to note the odometer reading before the car is picked up for transport. This ensures that you can confirm the vehicle’s mileage before and after transit, in case any discrepancies arise.
Secure and Remove Personal Items
While it may be tempting to leave personal items inside your car for the ride, it’s important to remove them before transporting the vehicle. Not only can personal belongings interfere with the loading and unloading process, but they may also void any insurance coverage during transport.
Step 1: Empty the Vehicle of Personal Items
Start by removing all personal items, such as clothing, electronics, paperwork, and valuables. This is important for both safety and insurance purposes. Insurance companies typically do not cover personal items left in the vehicle during transport, so removing them ensures that you aren’t risking the loss of valuable belongings.
Step 2: Secure Loose Items
If you have any items that must remain in the car, such as a spare tire or jack, make sure they are securely fastened. Loose items can move around during transport, potentially causing damage to your vehicle’s interior or getting lost during the journey. If possible, place these items in the trunk or a secure area where they won’t shift around.
Step 3: Remove Easy-to-Damage Accessories
It’s also wise to remove any accessories or modifications that could be damaged during transport, such as bike racks, antennas, or spoilers. These items are often exposed and can be damaged by the elements or the handling during the transport process. If they can be removed without difficulty, it’s best to just take them off and ship them separately.
Step 4: Check for Pets and Plants
Pets and plants are not allowed to be transported in most vehicles during long-distance shipping due to legal restrictions. Make sure your vehicle is clear of any living beings or organic materials before it is loaded onto the transport truck. Transporting pets or plants in your vehicle can be harmful to both the animals and the plants, and could also lead to delays or fines.
Check Vehicle Maintenance and Compliance
Ensuring that your vehicle is in good condition and compliant with transport requirements is essential for a smooth shipping experience. Regular maintenance and a quick check-up will help ensure that your car is ready for transport and won’t encounter any issues during the journey.
Step 1: Perform Basic Maintenance
Before shipping your vehicle, make sure it’s in good working condition. Check fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Ensure that the battery is fully charged and that the tires are properly inflated. If your car has low fuel, it’s usually best to leave the tank at about a quarter full. This reduces the weight of the vehicle and minimizes the risk of fuel spillage during transport.
Step 2: Check the Battery and Electrical Systems
If your car’s battery is old or in poor condition, it could leads problems during loading or unloading. Ensure the battery is fully charged and securely fastened to prevent it from moving or short-circuiting during the trip. It’s also a good idea to check that your vehicle’s electrical systems, such as headlights and brake lights, are functioning properly. Faulty electrical systems could cause issues when the transport company moves your vehicle onto the truck.
Step 3: Disable the Alarm System
Many vehicles come with security alarm systems that can be triggered during transport, especially when the car is being moved in and out of the transport truck. To avoid unnecessary disruptions or damage, disable your car’s alarm system before transport. If you are unsure how to do this, consult your vehicle’s manual or ask your transport company for guidance.
Step 4: Ensure Compliance with Regulations
Some states have specific laws regarding vehicle transport, including requirements for oversized vehicles, hazardous materials, or vehicles with certain modifications. Before booking your transport, check with the transport company to ensure your vehicle complies with any local, state, or federal regulations. If your car has any aftermarket modifications, such as lowered suspension or oversized tires, make sure these will not interfere with the shipping process.
Step 5: Check for Leaks or Mechanical Issues
Inspect your vehicle for any signs of oil or coolant leaks. Leaking fluids can be hazardous during transport, as they can drip onto other vehicles or the transport truck. If you notice any leaks, it’s advisable to get them repaired before transport. Additionally, if your car has any mechanical issues that could prevent it from being driven onto the transport truck, inform the transport company in advance so that they can make necessary accommodations.
Preparing your car for long-distance transport involves a series of key steps that ensure the vehicle is in the best condition for the journey. By inspecting and documenting your vehicle’s condition, securing and removing personal items, and checking your vehicle’s maintenance and compliance, you can safeguard your car and prevent any unexpected issues during transit. Whether you’re shipping a luxury vehicle or an everyday car, following these preparation steps will help ensure a smooth and safe transport experience.
- Use clear plastic bins.
Store decorations and holiday items in clear bins instead of cardboard boxes. This way, you can easily see what’s inside without digging through everything.
- Wrap delicate ornaments.
Use bubble wrap, tissue paper, or even socks to protect fragile ornaments. Pack them snugly to avoid shifting during the move.
- Label boxes clearly.
Write “Holiday Decorations” on all sides of the box and add details like “Tree Lights” or “Stockings” so you know exactly what’s inside.
- Pack wrapping supplies together.
Keep gift wrap, tape, scissors, and ribbon in one box. Consider using a gift wrap storage bag to keep rolls from getting crushed.
- Secure string lights.
Wrap lights around a piece of cardboard or an empty paper towel roll to keep them tangle-free.
- Pack a “Holiday Essentials” box.
If you plan to decorate shortly after moving in, pack your favorite or most-used decorations in one box for easy access.
- Store candles carefully.
Avoid temperature-sensitive spots like unheated garages during transit to prevent candles from melting or cracking. Wrap them individually to keep them from scratching or breaking.
- Use soft items for padding.
Wrap decorations in holiday towels, blankets, or stockings to save space and add extra cushioning.
- Pack early.
Start packing holiday items you won’t need right away, like outdoor lights or seasonal dinnerware, to reduce stress closer to moving day.
- Take photos before packing.
Snap pictures of your decorated tree or displays so you can easily recreate the same setup in your new home.
Don’t Forget to Check In With Your Mover About the Weather.
Winter weather is no joke, so don’t forget to touch base with your movers as the big day gets closer. Ask them what they do if snow or ice shows up.
Do they reschedule, delay, or have tricks to keep things moving? If a storm’s on the way, they might suggest adjusting the time or taking a different route.
If you’re handling the move yourself, stay on top of the forecast. Be ready with snow shovels, ice melt, and furniture covers to keep your stuff (and yourself) safe.
A quick chat with your movers or some weather prep on your end can make sure nothing gets in the way of your holiday move!
Make Your Holiday Move Easy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average long-distance moving cost?
The average cost ranges from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the distance, size of your home, and services needed.
How can I find the cheapest moving truck rental long distance?
Compare rates from a few companies, including People-Move Moving. Book early and avoid peak days to save.
Where can I get long-distance moving quotes instantly?
Just call People-Move Moving to get instant moving quotes.
How much do moving companies long distance cost, and how can I save?
Cost depends on the size and distance of your move. Save by downsizing, preparing early, and moving during off-peak times.
