Preparing your Vehicle for Shipment
Auto transport companies generally require you to prepare your vehicle before pick up. To help you do so, Relocation.com has compiled the following tips to assist you in your preparation process:
Prior to shipment, your vehicle will undergoinspection. You must be present for the inspection since this will be when you will sign the bill of lading as well as a vehicle condition report. It is important that you attend; this will allow you to rest assured that your auto shipper has all the necessary information.
Your car needs to be operable and working properly. Select companies will agree to transport inoperable vehicles, but only for an additional fee. It is suggested to have your vehicle serviced before the ship date.
Before loading your vehicle your tires should be inflated to their recommended pressure. This is done to ensure safe loading and unloading without causing damage to your tires.
It is crucial to regulate the antifreeze levels in your radiator to protect your vehicle in severe weather conditions.
Empty the inside of your vehicle; this includes hazardous materials and ammunition. According to the law, leaving items in your vehicle while it is being transported is not permitted. Only items necessary for your vehicle to function, such as spare tires or jacks, are allowed. If you happen to leave goods in the trunk or elsewhere and they become damaged, your auto transporting company is not liable.
You will need to have a complete set of keys available to give the shippers when your vehicle is picked up.
All antennas should be removed in addition to roof racks.
If you happen to have an EZ-Pass device, it must be removed from your vehicle.
If your vehicle is connected to an alarm system, it should be disabled before you hand it over to your auto transporter. This is done to prevent the alarm from activating while your car is in transit.
Do not fill up your tank on shipping day; it is recommended to have less than half a tank of gas when transporting your car.
