Whether you are moving across the country or just a short distance, auto transport can get your vehicle to its destination without you driving it. Before having your car transported, you should know a few things.
Many car shipping companies have a specific policy regarding what can (and cannot) be in the vehicle during transit. It can affect your insurance claim if anything is damaged in transit.
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Inspect the Vehicle
Whether you have bought a new or used car, inspecting the vehicle in daylight and with ample space around it is a must. It will help you spot even the most minor scratches or defects on your car and bring them to the staff’s attention calmly and collectedly.
Additionally, please ensure that the car is spotless when inspected and that any damage is mentioned on the carrier’s bill of lading. It will help you in case the vehicle is damaged in transit.
Because of this, you or a trusted third party must be present at both pickup and delivery. This person should be able to sign the paperwork and inspect the vehicle with the driver. It will ensure that the car is in good condition and that the delivery process is completed smoothly. It will also prevent any legal issues or delays in shipment. It will save both you and the car shipping company time and money. Moreover, it will also give you peace of mind knowing that the car is being shipped in good condition.
Inspect the Trailer
When shipping a vehicle part, it’s crucial to take precautions to keep it safe from harm and make sure it gets there in good shape. For instance, sharp or pointed edges should be padded and securely taped. Also, parts containing lubricant should be drained before shipping. Additionally, you should make sure to label your package correctly.
It is also good to communicate with the car shipping company about pre-existing conditions and take pictures of the vehicle at pickup and delivery. It will help if you need to file an insurance claim.
Try to ship your vehicle during non-peak seasons. Shipping companies tend to charge more during peak season. Getting several quotes from different shipping companies to find the best price for your shipment is also a good idea. In addition, be sure to choose a company with good customer reviews and a USDOT number. You can also check a company’s legitimacy on the federal motor carrier safety administration website. You may relax knowing that your shipment is in good hands in this way.
Remove Any Personal Items
Car transport companies are not responsible for personal belongings inside vehicles, so removing them before handing over your vehicle is a good idea. Leaving personal items in the car increases weight and can cause damage during shipping. It’s also a theft risk; the items won’t be insured during auto transportation.
It’s best to keep the gas tank no more than a quarter full, and removing exterior accessories like luggage racks can decrease the risk of damage. Disabling the alarm is another smart move.
Lastly, be sure to clean the vehicle before the inspection. It makes seeing existing damages, such as scratches or dents, easier. It’s also essential to meet the carrier at pickup, inspect your vehicle with them, and take clear photographs of its condition. By following this information to getting your automotive shipped, you can be sure your car will reach its destination in the same condition as when it left. It will also prevent you from getting ripped off by a questionable auto transport company. You can do this by checking a company’s credentials and reading reviews online.
Inspect the Vehicle Inside and Out
A car shipping company won’t lie to you – they will tell you that damage during shipment is rare, but they will also admit that it does happen. That’s why a detailed inspection is so essential for pickup and delivery. This inspection gives the carrier a look at your vehicle in its current condition – they can log any pre-existing damages on an initial inspection report and compare that to the vehicle’s condition at delivery.
Before the inspection, it’s a good idea to clean and organize your car. It will make it easier to see any scratches or other issues that may be present. You should also remove any items that can snap or fall off during transportation – like bike racks, ski racks, and luggage.
At the time of pickup, you will inspect your vehicle with the driver and sign a bill of lading. You’ll repeat this process at delivery to ensure your car arrives in the same condition it was left in.
Take Photographs
Before handing your car over to the transport company, it is a good idea to photograph it in its current condition. It will help to document the condition of your vehicle, and if any damage occurs during transit, it will prove that it was not present before shipment. To save shipping weight, removing all your personal belongings from your car and leaving only a quarter tank of gas is also a good idea. Giving your car a good wash and cleaning the inside thoroughly is also a good idea. It will make it easier to see any existing dents or scratches.
I’m a writer, artist, and designer working in the gaming and tech industries. I have held staff and freelance positions at large publications including Digital Trends, Lifehacker, Popular Science Magazine, Electronic Gaming Monthly, IGN, The Xplore Tech, and others, primarily covering gaming criticism, A/V and mobile tech reviews, and data security advocacy.