Shipping your vehicle can save time, reduce wear and tear, and make long-distance moves much easier. Whether you’re relocating, purchasing a car online, or sending a vehicle to a family member, preparing your car before pickup helps ensure a smooth auto transport experience.
At Golden Key Car Shipping, we recommend following this simple checklist before your vehicle is loaded onto the carrier.
Wash Your Vehicle
Cleaning your car before transport makes it easier to inspect for any existing scratches, dents, or paint chips. A clean vehicle allows both you and the driver to accurately document its condition before shipment.
Remove Personal Belongings
Most auto transport carriers recommend removing personal items from your vehicle. Loose belongings can shift during transit and may add unnecessary weight to the shipment.
Items to remove include:
- Electronics
- Important documents
- Luggage
- GPS devices
- Parking passes
- Garage door openers
- Valuables
Perform a Basic Vehicle Inspection
Check your vehicle for any maintenance issues before shipping.
Inspect:
- Tire pressure
- Battery condition
- Fluid leaks
- Brake performance
- Fuel level
Keeping your fuel tank about one-quarter full is usually recommended for safe loading and unloading.
Take Photos
Photograph your vehicle from multiple angles before pickup. Capture close-up images of any existing damage so you have a record of its condition before transport.
Disable Alarms
Deactivate any alarm systems that may accidentally activate during transportation.
Fold Mirrors & Remove Accessories
If possible:
- Fold side mirrors
- Remove roof racks
- Remove bike racks
- Remove custom spoilers or detachable accessories
These steps help reduce the chance of damage during transit.
Have Keys Ready
Provide the carrier with a working set of keys so the vehicle can be safely loaded and unloaded.
Choose the Right Transport Option
Selecting the proper shipping service is important.
- Open Auto Transport is affordable and ideal for most everyday vehicles.
- Enclosed Auto Transport offers added protection for luxury, classic, exotic, and collector cars.
- Door-to-Door Auto Transport provides maximum convenience with pickup and delivery near your locations.
Final Thoughts
Proper preparation helps your shipment go smoothly from pickup to delivery. By following these simple steps, you’ll be ready for a stress-free car shipping experience.
If you’re looking for dependable auto transport services from Plattsburgh, NY, Golden Key Car Shipping is here to help with reliable nationwide vehicle transportation.