License Plate and Registration: How keeping these items can benefit you in case of any issues - How to Prepare

When preparing your vehicle for transport via an auto transport service, there are several steps you should take to ensure a smooth and carefree experience. One often overlooked step is removing your vehicle's license plates and registration.

Having your documentation with you can help if potential issues arise during transport.

Removing License Plate and Registration

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Importance of Removing License Plates and Registration

Here’s why it's important to remove your license plates and registration [1][2] before auto transport and how to do it effectively.

Reasons to Remove License Plates

Here are some reasons why you should remove your license plate:

• Theft Prevention:
  License plates can be valuable targets for theft, particularly personalized or specialty plates. Removing them before transport reduces the risk of them being stolen while your vehicle is in transit. [3]
  
• Avoiding Damage:
  License plates can become damaged during transport due to road debris or weather conditions. Removing them helps ensure they remain in good condition.
  
• Simplifying Registration Changes:
  If you are moving to a new state or country, you will likely need to re-register your vehicle and obtain new license plates. Removing your old plates in advance can simplify this process upon arrival at your new location.
  

Reasons to Remove Registration Documents

Here are some reasons why you should remove your registration documents:

• Preventing Identity Theft:
  Your vehicle's registration documents contain personal information that can be used for identity theft if they fall into the wrong hands. Removing and securely storing these documents reduces this risk.
  
• Avoiding Loss:
  Important documents such as registration papers can easily be misplaced or lost during the transport process. Keeping them with you ensures they remain safe and accessible when needed.
  
• Simplifying Administrative Processes:
  When you arrive at your destination, you may need to provide your registration documents for various administrative processes, such as changing your address or updating your insurance. Having these documents on hand makes these tasks easier to complete.
  

How to Remove and Store License Plates and Registration

Here is how to remove the license plate from your vehicle prior to shipping it:

1. Remove License Plates:
   Use a screwdriver to carefully remove the screws securing your license plates to the vehicle. Store the screws in a small bag or container to avoid losing them. Keep the plates in a safe, secure location until you are ready to reattach them. [4]
   
2. Remove Registration Documents:
   Locate your vehicle's registration documents, usually kept in the glove compartment or another storage area inside the car. Remove these documents and place them in a folder or envelope for safekeeping. Keep this folder with your other important personal documents.
   
3. Communicate with the Transport Company:
   Inform the auto transport company that you have removed the license plates and registration. This ensures they are aware of the vehicle's condition and can address any questions or concerns that may arise during transit.
   
4. Securely Store Plates and Documents:
   Keep your license plates and registration documents in a secure place, such as a locked drawer or safe. If you are traveling to your new destination, carry these items with you to ensure they are not lost or stolen.
   

Preparing for Auto Transport

Here are some tips when preparing your car for auto transportation service: 

1. Perform Regular Maintenance:
   In addition to removing license plates and registration, perform regular maintenance on your vehicle before transport. This includes checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and battery condition to ensure your car is in optimal condition for transport.
   
2. Clean Your Vehicle:
   Clean your car's exterior and interior to facilitate a thorough inspection by the transport company. This helps document the vehicle's condition before transit and can be useful in the event of any disputes about damage.
   
3. Remove Personal Items:
   Remove all personal items from your vehicle, including valuables, electronics, and loose items. This helps prevent theft, loss, and potential damage during transport.
   
4. Inspect and Document Condition:
   Take detailed photographs of your vehicle from multiple angles, including close-ups of any existing damage. This documentation can be useful for insurance purposes and in case of any disputes about the vehicle's condition upon delivery.
   

Removing your vehicle's license plates and registration before auto transport is an important step to ensure a smooth and secure transport experience. By taking these precautions, you can prevent theft, avoid damage, comply with regulations, and simplify administrative processes at your destination.

Proper preparation and communication with the driver and the transport company contribute to a hassle-free and efficient vehicle relocation, giving you peace of mind throughout the journey.

Related Links

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• How to Prepare: Removing Personal Items
• How to Prepare: Washing Your Vehicle Before Transport
  
• How to Prepare: Taking Pictures of Your Vehicle
  

       

References

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1. AAMVA: License Plates
2. Investopedia: Why it is so important
   
3. Deep Sentinel: License Plate Theft
   
4. WikiHow: How to remove license plate