Proper preparation helps prevent delays and damage during long-distance car shipping. Follow these steps to ensure your vehicle is ready for the journey.
Clean and Inspect Your Car
A clean car makes it easier to spot any dings or scratches that may occur in transit. Document your car’s condition with photos.
Remove Personal Items
Take out all personal belongings, toll tags, and any custom accessories that could be damaged or cause rattling.
Maintenance Checklist
Check fluid levels, battery charge and tire pressure. Fix any leaks and ensure your car is in running condition for loading and unloading.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Why should I clean my car before shipping? Cleaning helps you and the carrier document the car’s condition and spot any new damage upon delivery.
- Can I leave things in my car? No, personal items are not covered by carrier insurance and could be lost or damaged.
- Do I need to perform maintenance before shipping? Check fluids, battery and tires to avoid delays at pickup or unloading. Report mechanical issues to the carrier.
Related Resources
- How to Ship a Car to Another State
- Car Shipping Cost & Pricing
- Vehicle Transport Options
- State-to-State Car Shipping Guide
More Resources
For additional insights, read our latest articles: Car Shipping Los Angeles to New York: Cross-Country Guide, Car Transport Florida to California: Distance, Costs & Tips, Car Shipping Georgia to Texas: What to Know.
When shipping a car across states, there are numerous factors to consider beyond simply booking a carrier. In addition to the route and service type, you should research the reputation of various auto transport companies, compare quotes carefully and read customer reviews. Seasonality can influence prices, with higher demand during summer and snowbird migrations. Always confirm the carrier’s insurance coverage and ask about communication during transit. A reputable broker or carrier will answer your questions, provide clear documentation and help you prepare your vehicle properly.
Preparing your vehicle involves cleaning it inside and out, removing personal belongings, disabling toll transponders and checking for leaks. Document the car’s condition with photos and ensure the gas tank is around a quarter full to keep weight low. On the day of pick‑up, inspect the vehicle with the driver and sign the bill of lading, which serves as your receipt and inspection report. Upon delivery, re‑inspect your car, note any changes on the bill of lading and make final payment. To learn more about the car shipping process, visit How to Ship a Car to Another State.