Vehicle Preparation Tips for Auto Transport Shippers

1/8/2026

How to Prepare Vehicle for Transport

Learn the steps on how to get your car ready for shipping in this easy guide for people using a car shipping service.

Preparation Index

Why Preparation Is Important

Preparing your vehicle before transport is more than just a checklist — it’s peace of mind. Proper preparation keeps your car protected, your driver informed, and helps avoid extra fees or damage claims. Spending a few minutes to inspect, clean, and document your vehicle ensures a smoother, safer shipping process from start to finish.

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Wash Your Car: A Clean Car Simplifies Inspection - How to Prepare

1/7/2026

Give your vehicle a good wash before transport. A clean surface makes it easier to spot and document any existing scratches or dents during the inspection process. Plus, it keeps your car looking great upon delivery.

Why washing you car before transport is advised.

Pro Tip: Avoid waxing your car before transport — it can make inspection markings harder to apply.

Fix All Tire Leaks: Prevent Loading and Unloading Issues - How to Prepare

12/29/2025

A flat or leaking tire can complicate loading and unloading. Make sure all tires are properly inflated and leak-free before the carrier arrives. This simple step avoids delays and helps the driver handle your vehicle safely.

How to fix and prepare your car for transport if there are any tire leaks.

Pro Tip: Check your tire pressure the day before pickup — even a slow leak can become a problem.

Report Any Oil Leaks: Notify the Driver Before Pickup - How to Prepare

12/17/2025

Oil leaks can cause problems during loading or damage other vehicles on the carrier. If you suspect your car has any, let the driver know before transport. This helps them position the car properly and prevents safety or cleanliness issues.

How to prepare car for transport if there are oil leaks.

Pro Tip: A quick inspection before pickup can save you from potential claims later.

Special Modifications: Adjust or Remove to Ensure Safe Loading - How to Prepare

12/13/2025

If your vehicle has custom parts, spoilers, lift kits, or low ground clearance, inform your carrier in advance. Some modifications can make loading and unloading difficult or even risky. Adjust or temporarily remove them to ensure a smooth process and protect your investment.

How to prepare car for transport with special modifications.

Pro Tip: Always mention modifications when booking your shipment so the carrier can bring the right equipment.

Toll Passes: Remove Before Shipping to Avoid Unwanted Charges - How to Prepare

12/9/2025

Before your vehicle is picked up for transport, make sure to remove all toll passes. Leaving them in place could lead to unnecessary charges while your vehicle travels through toll areas on the carrier. A quick removal helps prevent billing confusion and saves you money.

How to prepare car before transport if there is a toll pass.

Pro Tip: Keep the toll pass safely stored and reattach it once your car is delivered.

Check Vehicle Battery: Ensure It’s Functional - How to Prepare

12/7/2025

Your vehicle should be able to start and roll on its own. A dead or weak battery could require a winch for loading, which can slow down the process or add extra fees.

Checking to make sure your battery is functioning for auto transport is very important.

Pro Tip: Test your battery before pickup — the driver is not responsible for jump-starting your car.

Personal Items: Remove Everything from the Vehicle - How to Prepare

12/1/2025

Before pickup, remove all personal belongings from inside the vehicle. Auto transport carriers are not licensed to move household goods, and personal items are not covered by carrier insurance.

Why removing personal items from your vehicle is advised when shipping a car.

Pro Tip: Only keep factory accessories or necessary documents.

Take Pictures of Car: How having your own photo record of your vehicle's condition can benefit you - How to Prepare

10/21/2025

Before handing over your car, take clear photos from all angles, including close-ups of any existing damage. This provides valuable proof of your car’s pre-shipping condition in case you need to file a claim.

Why taking pictures of your vehicle before transport is suggested.

Pro Tip: Use natural daylight for better clarity and store your photos in a cloud folder for easy access.

Keep Fuel Gauge Low: Quarter Tank Is Ideal - How to Prepare

10/20/2025

When shipping your vehicle, make sure the fuel tank is no more than one-quarter full. Less fuel means less weight, which makes transport safer and reduces the risk of leaks or spills.

Why keeping the fuel gauge low is highly advised.

Pro Tip: Leave just enough gas for loading, unloading, and short movements.

Keep Loading Area Clear: Help the Driver Access Your Vehicle - How to Prepare

10/18/2025

Ensure the pickup area is open and accessible for the carrier truck. Move other vehicles, clear debris, and make space for loading. This helps avoid delays and ensures safe maneuvering.

Why its important to keep loading area clear when transporting your vehicle.

Pro Tip: For residential pickups, confirm there’s enough room for a large truck or arrange to meet nearby in a more accessible location.

License Plate and Registration: Keep Them Secure - How to Prepare

10/17/2025

Remove your license plate and registration documents before transport to prevent loss or theft. Keep them with you for safekeeping. If any issues arise during shipping, having your documents handy helps verify ownership quickly.

Removing the license plate before transport helps keep it safe just in case.

Pro Tip: Double-check your glove compartment before the carrier leaves.

Disable the Alarm: Avoid Unnecessary Delays - How to Prepare

10/15/2025

Before handing off your car, turn off or disable the alarm system. Alarms that go off during transport can interrupt the trip and cause unnecessary delays.