Introduction
Arranging professional car shipping can simplify a move, a long-distance vehicle purchase, or a seasonal relocation. However, before the carrier arrives, taking time to prepare your vehicle can help make pickup and delivery more organized.
Whether you are shipping a sedan, SUV, pickup truck, or classic automobile, a few practical steps can reduce delays and help you document your vehicle’s condition. Orbit Car Transport recommends reviewing the following checklist before your scheduled pickup.
1. Clean Your Vehicle
Wash the exterior before transportation. A clean surface makes it easier to identify scratches, dents, paint chips, and other existing imperfections during inspection.
You do not need an expensive detailing service. A basic wash is usually sufficient to make the vehicle’s condition easier to assess.
2. Photograph Existing Damage
Take clear photographs of the front, rear, both sides, roof, wheels, and any visible damage. Include close-up images of scratches or dents and keep the photographs somewhere accessible.
These pictures provide a useful record when comparing the vehicle’s condition at pickup and delivery.
3. Remove Personal Belongings
Clear the passenger cabin, glove compartment, center console, and trunk of personal items and valuables. Loose belongings can move during transportation and may not be covered by the carrier’s insurance.
Ask your transport provider whether any personal items are permitted. Never assume that household goods can be shipped inside your vehicle.
4. Check the Vehicle’s Mechanical Condition
Make sure the battery is charged and the tires are properly inflated. Check for visible fluid leaks and disclose mechanical problems before pickup.
If the vehicle is inoperable, tell the transport provider in advance. Special loading equipment or a different carrier may be necessary, potentially affecting the price and schedule.
5. Keep the Fuel Level Low
A full tank adds unnecessary weight to the vehicle. Many carriers recommend leaving approximately one-quarter tank of fuel, although you should follow your carrier’s specific instructions.
There should still be enough fuel for the vehicle to be loaded and unloaded when necessary.
6. Remove Accessories and Secure Loose Parts
Remove detachable roof racks, bike carriers, loose spoilers, and other accessories that could be damaged during transport. Retract antennas and fold in the mirrors when appropriate.
Tell your provider about modifications such as oversized tires, lift kits, or unusually low ground clearance.
7. Disable Alarms and Remove Toll Devices
Turn off alarms that could activate during transit. Remove toll tags, parking passes, garage remotes, and other devices that could be lost, damaged, or trigger unwanted charges.
Check the vehicle manual if you are unsure how to disable an aftermarket security system.
8. Prepare Your Keys and Documents
Have the required keys available for the driver and retain a spare for yourself. Confirm which documents are needed for your shipment and keep copies of your booking confirmation and transport agreement.
Requirements may vary depending on the vehicle, route, and shipping arrangement.
9. Confirm Pickup and Delivery Access
Large car carriers cannot always enter narrow streets, underground parking garages, or areas with low-hanging branches.
If your street is unsuitable, arrange an accessible nearby meeting point with your provider. Confirm the pickup window, delivery address, and contact information before shipping day.
10. Inspect the Vehicle at Pickup and Delivery
Walk around the vehicle with the driver and review the condition report before signing. At delivery, inspect the vehicle again and compare its condition with your photographs and original documentation.
If you identify new damage, record it on the delivery paperwork and contact the transport provider promptly to follow the appropriate claims process.
Conclusion
Preparing your car for shipping does not need to be complicated. Cleaning the vehicle, documenting its condition, removing personal belongings, and confirming logistics can make the process more straightforward.
Before your next shipment, use this checklist to stay organized and communicate any special requirements to your carrier. Visit Orbit Car Transport to explore your shipping options and plan your vehicle’s transportation with greater confidence.
