How to Prepare Your Car for State-to-State Shipping: Essential Checklist
Shipping your car to another state can be a convenient alternative to driving hundreds or thousands of miles.
However, proper preparation is important before the vehicle is collected.
Following a few straightforward steps can help reduce confusion, support the inspection process, and make pickup and delivery more efficient.
1. Clean Your Vehicle
Start by washing the exterior of your vehicle.
A clean surface makes it easier to identify scratches, dents, and other existing marks during the pickup inspection.
You should also remove unnecessary items from the interior.
Keeping the vehicle tidy helps make the inspection process more straightforward.
2. Document the Vehicle’s Condition
Before the carrier arrives, take clear photographs of the vehicle.
Capture the front, rear, both sides, roof where practical, and any existing damage.
You may also photograph the odometer and interior condition.
Keep these images with your shipment records.
They can provide useful documentation when comparing the vehicle’s condition at pickup and delivery.
3. Remove Personal Belongings
Auto transport services are designed primarily for vehicles rather than household goods.
Personal belongings may not be covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance, and some carriers prohibit them entirely.
Remove electronics, important documents, valuables, and unsecured accessories before pickup.
If you need to leave anything inside the vehicle, obtain permission and confirm the applicable restrictions in advance.
4. Check for Mechanical Issues
If your vehicle is operational, confirm that it can start, steer, brake, and move safely for loading and unloading.
Check for visible fluid leaks and notify the transportation provider of any mechanical concerns.
A non-running vehicle may require specialized loading equipment.
Disclosing this information early can help prevent scheduling complications.
5. Follow Fuel-Level Instructions
Transport carriers may have specific requirements concerning the amount of fuel in the vehicle.
Many recommend keeping the tank relatively low while retaining enough fuel for loading and unloading.
Follow the instructions provided for your shipment rather than assuming every carrier has the same requirements.
6. Secure Loose Accessories
Remove or secure detachable exterior accessories when instructed.
Examples may include removable luggage racks, antennas, aftermarket attachments, or other components that could interfere with loading.
If your vehicle has unusual dimensions or modifications, disclose them before booking.
7. Confirm Pickup and Delivery Information
Double-check both addresses, contact numbers, and the names of people authorized to release or receive the vehicle.
For door-to-door transportation, consider whether a large carrier can safely access the requested locations.
If access is restricted, discuss a suitable alternative meeting point.
8. Review the Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading is an important transportation document that may include shipment information and the vehicle condition report.
Review the inspection details carefully before signing.
Retain a copy for your records.
9. Prepare for Delivery Inspection
When your vehicle arrives, inspect it before completing the delivery process.
Compare its condition with the pickup report and your photographs.
If you notice a discrepancy, document it according to the carrier’s claims and inspection procedures.