Shipping your car across the country can feel stressful, but with the right preparation, the process becomes simple and smooth. Many people choose cross country vehicle shipping because it saves time, reduces wear and tear on their car, and offers a safe way to move a vehicle long distances. If you want your car to arrive in great condition, proper preparation is the key. Below is a clear and easy guide to get your vehicle ready before transport.
1. Give Your Car a Good Cleaning
Start by washing the outside of your car. Dirt, dust, and mud can hide scratches or dents. A clean car helps you see its real condition before it is shipped. Wipe down the inside as well so nothing gets in the way during inspection. When your car is clean, it is much easier to notice any changes after delivery.
2. Check for Existing Damage
Before your car is picked up, walk around it and look closely for scratches, dents, chips, or paint marks. Write them down or take clear photos from all angles. This step protects you in case you need to compare the car’s condition later. Make sure the photos are bright, clear, and dated. This simple step gives you peace of mind.
3. Remove Personal Items
Take out your personal belongings from the car. This includes bags, tools, electronics, important papers, and anything loose. Shipping companies usually do not allow personal items inside the vehicle because they can move around during transport and cause damage. Also, the extra weight can affect pricing. Keep the car light, empty, and ready for safe shipping.
4. Secure or Remove Loose Parts
If your car has fragile or removable parts, secure them or take them off. This includes spoilers, roof racks, antennas, bike racks, and custom accessories. Fold in your side mirrors. These small steps help prevent breakage during loading and unloading. Make sure your gas cap is tightened, and if you have a removable antenna, consider unscrewing it for the trip.
5. Check the Tires and Battery
Your car should be in normal working condition before it is shipped. Make sure the tires are properly inflated—neither too full nor too flat. Also check the battery to confirm it is fully charged and secure. These checks help transport drivers load and unload your vehicle safely. The easier it is to move the car, the smoother the whole process will be.
6. Fill the Gas Tank Only One-Quarter Full
It may seem strange, but your car should not have a full tank of gas during shipping. A quarter tank is enough for loading and unloading but not too heavy. A lighter car is safer and easier to transport. Too much fuel can add unnecessary weight and increase safety risks. Make sure the gas cap is closed tightly to avoid any leaks.
7. Check for Fluid Leaks
Look under your car to see if there are any fluid leaks. If you notice oil, coolant, or transmission fluid dripping, get it fixed before the shipping date. Leaks can cause delays or safety issues during transport. If your car has special requirements, like an electric vehicle or modifications, let your shipping company know in advance.
8. Disable Alarms and Anti-Theft Devices
If your car alarm goes off during transport, it can cause interruptions and slow down the process. To avoid this, disable all alarms and anti-theft systems before pickup. If your car has a hidden kill switch, be sure to let the driver know how it works. This keeps everything running smoothly.
9. Provide a Set of Keys
You will need to give the driver a full set of keys, including keys for the ignition, doors, and trunk. The driver needs these to safely load and unload your vehicle. If you have a remote or key fob, include that as well. Make sure you keep a spare set for yourself.
10. Confirm All Shipping Details
Before your pick-up date, double-check all the details with your transport company. Confirm the address, time window, phone numbers, and payment details. Ask what to expect on the day of pick-up and delivery. Clear communication helps prevent confusion and keeps the process stress-free.
11. Be Present for Pickup and Delivery
On the day of pickup, you or a trusted person should be there to meet the driver. The driver will do a full inspection and fill out a condition report. Review the report carefully and sign it only when you agree with everything written. Do the same when your car arrives at the delivery location. Compare the car’s condition with the photos you took earlier to make sure everything matches.
Final Thoughts
Shipping your car across the country does not have to be a difficult experience. With proper preparation, you can make the entire process easy, safe, and stress-free. These simple steps—cleaning your car, removing personal items, checking for damage, and making sure everything is secure—help protect your vehicle from start to finish. Whether you are moving, buying a vehicle from another state, or sending a car to a family member, following these guidelines ensures a smooth experience.Choosing the right company for cross country vehicle shipping also plays a big part in your peace of mind. For a dependable and customer-friendly experience, you can trust Spark Auto Transport to handle your vehicle with care every step of the way.
