Things to Know Before Shipping Your Car
There are some extra issues you need to consider, however, when contracting with a vehicle shipping company.
Auto transport may seem like a contradiction in terms. If you need to get your vehicle somewhere you just drive it, right? Unfortunately, you can't drive your car everywhere.
Having to transport a vehicle at the same time you're moving all your other possessions can be a royal pain, especially if you're moving long-distance. Shipping your vehicle can make sense and hiring a good auto transporter to do it can make the process easy. Auto transporters are just like any other moving companies: they pick up your car, load it onto a truck and deliver it wherever you tell them to.
We can connect you to vehicle shipping services the same way we connect you with estimates from residential moving companies. Just enter your basic information and the free quotes from auto transport companies will come to you.
There are some extra issues you need to consider, however, when contracting with a vehicle shipping company.
Gather your vehicle’s documents:
Before you ship a car, auto transporters will want proof that the vehicle is yours. To prevent shipment delays and last-minute file cabinet and glovebox searches, prep this paperwork in advance:
Vehicle registration information
Proof of insurance
Bill of sale or other proof you own vehicle
Original vehicle title
Your unexpired identification (i.e. driver’s license or passport)
Wash your car:
Washing your car inside and out before shipping may seem counterintuitive, but starting with a clean car allows you to see existing dust, dings, and scratches already on your car—and that’ll help you catch any new damage that occurs during the car transport service.
Remove personal items:
If you’re running low on space in your moving van, you might be tempted to stash a few heavy boxes in your car before shipping it. But that’s a big no-no. Items packed in your car won’t be insured against damage or theft, and transportation companies can be fined for moving your personal belongings in your car.
Instead, remove any personal or unessential items from your vehicle:
Charging cables
Old chapsticks and junk
Water bottles
GPS devices
Sunglasses
Insurance information and personally identifying paperwork
Empty your gas tank:
Your car is being transported on a car carrier, not driven, so filling up your tank before shipment is unnecessary. Plus, extra gas means extra weight for your vehicle and car carrier, which can add to your shipping cost. Instead, leave your gas tank just a quarter full. That’s enough fuel to drive it on and off the transport truck without worrying about running out.
Document damage:
Once your car is clean, take a walkabout to note pre-existing damage to the exterior. This includes dents, scratches, discolorations, and paint chips. (Now you see why starting with a clean car is essential.)
Whether you choose affordable open transport or pricier enclosed car shipping, it’s unlikely your car will be damaged by the shipping process.
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You'll also need to pay more attention to things like shipping dates and vehicle inspections.
To make sure you know everything you need to before o ship your car talk to AAA Auto Transporters Toll Free: 1-888-889-0939