Preparing your vehicle before transportation can make the pickup and delivery process easier to manage. Whether you choose open car transport, enclosed shipping, or state-to-state transportation, a few simple steps can help you document your vehicle’s condition and prevent avoidable complications.
Use this checklist before your scheduled pickup.
1. Clean the Exterior
Wash your vehicle before pickup when practical. A clean exterior makes it easier to identify existing scratches, dents, chips, and other visible marks.
The goal is not to make the car look brand new. Cleaning simply helps you and the carrier document the vehicle’s condition more accurately.
2. Take Photographs
Take clear photographs from the front, rear, both sides, and each corner. Photograph any existing damage more closely.
Keep the pictures with your shipping paperwork. Good lighting and original image files can help provide a useful record of the vehicle’s condition before transportation.
3. Remove Personal Belongings
Remove luggage, electronics, valuables, loose accessories, and personal items from the cabin and trunk.
Carriers may prohibit personal belongings, and such items may not be covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance. Check the provider’s policy instead of assuming belongings can remain inside the vehicle.
4. Disclose Mechanical Problems
Inform the provider about mechanical issues, fluid leaks, low ground clearance, modifications, or other conditions that could affect loading and unloading.
If your vehicle does not run, disclose this before booking. An inoperable vehicle may require special equipment or additional handling arrangements.
5. Follow Fuel Instructions
Ask the carrier what fuel level is required. Many carriers request a low fuel level because the vehicle is transported rather than driven, but instructions may vary.
Follow the requirements provided for your particular shipment.
6. Secure Accessories and Alarms
Remove or secure detachable accessories when instructed. Examples may include removable roof attachments, loose exterior equipment, or items that could be damaged during transportation.
Follow the carrier’s guidance about mirrors, windows, keys, doors, and alarms. If your alarm may activate during handling, ask how to manage it.
7. Check Tires and Battery
For an operable vehicle, make sure the tires are appropriately inflated and the battery can support safe loading and unloading. Inform the provider of known problems.
If your vehicle is inoperable or has special loading needs, confirm that the carrier has suitable equipment.
8. Review Pickup Documents
At pickup, review the inspection report or bill of lading. Confirm that the vehicle details and visible existing damage are recorded accurately.
Ask questions about missing or incorrect details before signing. Keep a copy of the completed paperwork.
9. Confirm Delivery Arrangements
Make sure the delivery contact can be reached and the destination is suitable for the carrier. Large transport trucks may not be able to access narrow roads, restricted communities, or locations with low-clearance obstacles.
Agree on a practical meeting point in advance if direct access is not possible.
10. Inspect the Vehicle at Delivery
When the vehicle arrives, inspect it in good lighting and compare its condition with the pickup documentation and photographs.
If you find apparent new damage, take photographs, document it on the delivery paperwork, and follow the carrier’s written claims procedure. Keep copies of all relevant records.
Final Car Shipping Checklist
- Clean the exterior.
- Photograph existing damage.
- Remove personal belongings and valuables.
- Disclose mechanical issues and modifications.
- Follow fuel and key instructions.
- Secure loose accessories.
- Review the pickup inspection report.
- Confirm delivery details.
- Inspect the vehicle at delivery.
Plan Your Vehicle Shipment With Confidence
A little preparation can make vehicle transportation more organized. Fleetcrest Vehicle Shipping helps customers explore open car transport, enclosed car transport, door-to-door auto transport, and state-to-state vehicle shipping options.
Contact Fleetcrest Vehicle Shipping to discuss your vehicle’s condition, route, and preferred schedule before pickup.