Shipping a vehicle can make a long-distance move, relocation, or vehicle purchase more convenient. However, preparing your car before pickup is an important part of the process. Proper preparation helps document the vehicle’s condition, reduces avoidable complications, and makes communication with the transportation provider easier.
Whether you choose open car transport or enclosed car transport, understanding what to do before pickup can help you approach your shipment with confidence.
1. Clean Your Vehicle Before Pickup
Start by washing the exterior of your vehicle. A reasonably clean surface makes it easier to identify existing scratches, dents, chips, and other visible marks during the inspection.
You do not necessarily need professional detailing. The goal is to make the vehicle’s condition easier to assess.
Clean the windows and remove dirt from areas that may otherwise hide minor damage. If the vehicle already has visible imperfections, take note of them before the carrier arrives.
An accurate condition record can be useful if questions arise during delivery.
2. Photograph the Vehicle’s Condition
Take clear photographs of your car before transportation begins. Capture the front, rear, both sides, wheels, roof where accessible, and any existing damage.
Photograph the interior if there are visible issues worth documenting. Use good lighting and keep the images available until the shipment has been completed.
At pickup, review the vehicle inspection report or applicable shipping documentation with the carrier. Make sure existing damage is recorded accurately.
Repeat the inspection when the vehicle arrives. If you notice a discrepancy, document it and follow the carrier’s procedures for reporting concerns.
Photographs are useful supporting evidence, although they do not replace the official inspection report or any applicable claims process.
3. Remove Personal Belongings
Before shipping your car, remove luggage, electronics, documents, loose accessories, valuables, and other personal belongings.
Personal items may not be covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance, and their transportation may be restricted by the applicable agreement or law. Extra weight can also affect the shipment.
Check the glove compartment, center console, door pockets, trunk, and under-seat areas. Remove important documents and any items that should not be left unattended.
If a particular item must remain in the vehicle, ask the transportation provider whether it is permitted before pickup. Do not assume that personal belongings are included in the vehicle shipping service.
4. Check the Vehicle’s Mechanical Condition
Inform the transportation provider whether your vehicle starts, runs, steers, and brakes normally.
If the vehicle is inoperable, disclose this information before confirming the shipment. A non-running vehicle may require a winch, specialized loading equipment, or another arrangement.
Also mention low ground clearance, modified suspension, oversized tires, aftermarket body kits, or other unusual features. These details can affect loading and unloading.
You should not attempt to repair a serious mechanical problem immediately before transport without considering the actual shipping requirements. Instead, communicate the condition accurately and follow the provider’s instructions.
5. Check for Leaks and Secure Loose Components
Look for visible fluid leaks and tell the transportation provider about any known issues. Secure or remove detachable accessories as instructed, including loose exterior equipment that could become damaged during transit.
Retract antennas where appropriate, secure removable roof accessories, and make sure windows and doors close properly.
Disable alarms when instructed so they do not create unnecessary complications during handling. Keep the vehicle key available for the carrier.
Do not make modifications to the vehicle solely for shipping unless they have been discussed with the relevant provider.
6. Follow the Carrier’s Fuel Instructions
Ask how much fuel should remain in your vehicle before pickup. Carriers may have specific requirements, and the appropriate amount can depend on the vehicle and loading process.
Avoid assuming that a full tank is necessary. Unnecessary fuel adds weight, while a vehicle may need enough fuel for loading or unloading if it is driven during handling.
For electric vehicles and hybrids, follow the carrier’s instructions regarding battery charge, vehicle mode, and safe handling.
7. Prepare the Required Paperwork
Have the relevant keys, identification, shipment confirmation, and vehicle documents available as requested.
The documents required can vary depending on the shipment, ownership situation, and transportation provider. If someone else will release or receive the vehicle, confirm that the person is authorized and has the necessary information.
Review the booking confirmation and retain copies of important documents.
8. Confirm Pickup and Delivery Arrangements
Confirm the pickup window, meeting location, contact information, and any access restrictions before the scheduled pickup.
Large carrier trucks may not be able to enter narrow streets, private communities, or locations with height or weight restrictions. If direct access is not possible, coordinate a nearby accessible location.
Make sure your phone is available for shipment-related calls or messages. If your schedule changes, communicate as early as possible.
9. Inspect Your Vehicle Again at Delivery
When your vehicle arrives, inspect it in a well-lit location where practical. Compare its condition with the pickup report and photographs.
Check the body panels, bumpers, wheels, windows, and other visible areas. Follow the carrier’s procedure if you identify new damage or another discrepancy.
Record your concerns promptly and retain copies of the relevant documents. Avoid signing paperwork without understanding what it confirms.
Choose the Right Auto Transport Service
Preparation is important whether you select open transport for an everyday vehicle or enclosed transport for a vehicle requiring additional protection. Door-to-door auto transport and state-to-state shipping also require accurate addresses, clear communication, and realistic scheduling expectations.