Planning to ship your car to another city or state? Before your vehicle is picked up, taking a few simple preparation steps can make the transportation process easier and more organized.
Whether you’re relocating, purchasing a vehicle from another state, or arranging long-distance transportation, preparing your car properly helps you document its condition and avoid unnecessary complications.
At Holt Car Shipping, we understand that vehicle transportation involves more than simply arranging a carrier. Knowing what to do before pickup can help you feel more confident throughout the shipping process.
Here are seven important things to do before shipping your car.
1. Clean Your Car Before Pickup
Start by giving your vehicle a thorough exterior wash.
A clean vehicle makes it easier to identify and document existing scratches, dents, paint marks, and other visible imperfections during the pickup inspection.
You don’t necessarily need professional detailing. A basic exterior wash is usually sufficient.
Helpful tips:
- Wash the exterior of your vehicle.
- Remove dirt and mud from visible surfaces.
- Clean the windows and mirrors.
- Make sure existing scratches and dents are easy to identify.
This preparation makes comparing the vehicle’s condition at pickup and delivery easier.
2. Remove Personal Belongings
Before handing over your vehicle, remove personal belongings from the interior and trunk.
Personal items left inside a vehicle may not be covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance. They can also create additional weight or move around during transportation.
Make sure to remove:
- Clothing and personal bags.
- Electronics and valuables.
- Important documents.
- Loose accessories.
- Garage remotes and unnecessary personal items.
Keep essential documents and valuables with you rather than inside the vehicle.
3. Document Your Vehicle’s Existing Condition
One of the most important steps before shipping your car is documenting its current condition.
Take clear photographs of your vehicle from multiple angles before pickup.
Consider photographing:
- Front and rear bumpers.
- Both sides of the vehicle.
- Doors and side panels.
- Wheels and tires.
- Windshield and windows.
- Any existing scratches, dents, or damage.
Make sure your photographs are clear and taken in good lighting.
During pickup, review the carrier’s inspection report or Bill of Lading carefully. Compare the documented condition with your own photographs.
Keep copies of all relevant shipping documents for reference.
4. Check Your Vehicle’s Mechanical Condition
Your vehicle should generally be in suitable working condition for transportation unless you have arranged shipping for an inoperable vehicle.
Before pickup, check a few basic things:
- Make sure the battery is functioning.
- Check tire pressure.
- Look for visible fluid leaks.
- Ensure the brakes work properly.
- Confirm that the steering functions.
- Check whether the vehicle starts and moves.
If your vehicle is not running, has mechanical problems, or cannot be driven, inform the transport provider before booking.
Inoperable vehicles may require special equipment or additional arrangements.
5. Keep the Fuel Level Relatively Low
For standard vehicle transportation, it’s generally recommended to keep the fuel tank around one-quarter full or follow the carrier’s specific instructions.
A lower fuel level helps avoid unnecessary vehicle weight while leaving enough fuel for loading and unloading when needed.
You don’t need a full tank for transportation.
Always follow the carrier’s guidance regarding fuel requirements.
6. Remove or Secure Loose Accessories
Loose or removable vehicle accessories can become damaged or create complications during transportation.
Before pickup, inspect your vehicle for items that may need to be removed or secured.
These may include:
- Roof racks and removable cargo carriers.
- Bike racks.
- Removable antennas.
- Loose spoilers or exterior accessories.
- Custom exterior attachments.
- Toll tags and parking permits.
If your vehicle has aftermarket modifications, unusually low ground clearance, or oversized accessories, inform the transport provider in advance.
This helps determine whether the carrier can safely accommodate your vehicle.
7. Confirm Pickup and Delivery Details
Before the scheduled pickup, make sure all transportation arrangements are clear.
Confirm the following details with your transport provider:
- Pickup address and contact information.
- Delivery address and contact information.
- Expected pickup timeframe.
- Estimated delivery timeframe.
- Vehicle accessibility.
- Carrier access and parking arrangements.
- Required documents and inspection procedures.
If you’re arranging door-to-door car shipping, remember that large transport carriers may not be able to access every residential street, parking area, or restricted location.
An alternative nearby meeting point may be necessary.
Clear communication before pickup helps make the shipping process more organized.
Bonus Tips for Open and Enclosed Car Transport
Your preparation may vary depending on the transportation method you choose.
Before Open Car Transport
Open car transport uses uncovered trailers, meaning vehicles remain exposed to outdoor conditions during the journey.
Before pickup:
- Secure loose exterior accessories.
- Check windows and sunroofs.
- Remove personal belongings.
- Document the vehicle’s existing condition.
- Confirm that the vehicle is ready for loading.
Before Enclosed Auto Transport
Enclosed transport provides additional protection from outside elements through a covered trailer.
Before pickup:
- Discuss any special handling requirements.
- Inform the provider about low ground clearance.
- Mention vehicle modifications.
- Document the vehicle’s exterior condition.
- Confirm loading and unloading arrangements.
For luxury and classic vehicles, discussing specific transportation requirements in advance can be particularly helpful.
Car Shipping Preparation Checklist
Use this quick checklist before your vehicle is collected.
- Wash the exterior of your vehicle.
- Remove personal belongings and valuables.
- Take photographs of the vehicle’s condition.
- Check tires, battery, and visible fluid leaks.
- Keep the fuel level relatively low.
- Remove or secure loose accessories.
- Confirm pickup and delivery arrangements.
- Review the vehicle inspection documentation.
Completing these steps can help you prepare for a more organized vehicle shipping experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preparing a Car for Shipping
1. Should I wash my car before shipping it?
Yes. Washing your vehicle helps make existing scratches, dents, and other exterior imperfections easier to identify during the pickup inspection.
2. Can I leave personal belongings inside my car?
It’s generally recommended to remove personal belongings before transportation. Items left inside may not be covered by carrier insurance and could create additional transportation concerns.
3. How much gas should I leave in my car before shipping?
A fuel level of approximately one-quarter tank is commonly recommended for standard vehicle shipments. However, follow your carrier’s specific instructions.
4. Should I take pictures of my car before shipping?
Yes. Take clear photographs of your vehicle from multiple angles before pickup. These photographs can help document its existing condition.
5. Can I ship a car that doesn’t run?
Yes, some transport carriers accept inoperable vehicles. However, specialized equipment and additional arrangements may be necessary. Inform your provider about the vehicle’s condition before booking.
6. Do I need to remove my toll tag before shipping?
Removing toll tags and parking permits is a good precaution. It can help prevent accidental toll charges during transportation.
7. Is vehicle preparation different for open and enclosed transport?
Some preparation steps are similar for both methods. However, special accessories, vehicle modifications, and loading requirements may require different arrangements depending on the carrier.
Final Thoughts: Prepare Your Car for a Better Shipping Experience
Preparing your vehicle before transportation doesn’t have to be difficult. Simple steps like cleaning your car, removing personal belongings, documenting its condition, and confirming pickup details can make the process easier to manage.
Whether you’re choosing open car transport or enclosed auto transport, proper preparation helps you understand what to expect before your vehicle begins its journey.
At Holt Car Shipping, we offer vehicle transportation solutions for customers with different shipping requirements, including open, enclosed, door-to-door, luxury, classic, and motorcycle transportation.
Ready to Arrange Your Car Shipment?
Planning to move your vehicle from Ontario, CA, or another location? Contact Holt Car Shipping to discuss your transportation requirements and request a free, personalized quote.
Get Your Free Quote Today!
Call: (909) 280-7685
Holt Car Shipping
2320 S Archibald Ave, Ontario, CA 91761, USA
Office Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Website: https://holtcarshipping.com/