Preparing your vehicle before a carrier arrives is one of the most overlooked parts of auto transport. Done right, it protects your car, speeds up the inspection process, and helps you avoid disputes. Here's exactly what to do.
The Complete Pre-Shipping Checklist
1. Clean Your Car Inside and Out
A clean car makes the pre-transport inspection accurate. Any existing scratches or dings must be documented. If your car is dirty, small damage can be missed — or falsely attributed to transport. Wash the exterior thoroughly before pickup.
2. Document the Condition with Photos
Take time-stamped photos of all four sides, the roof, the windshield, the undercarriage, and the interior. This is your proof of pre-transport condition. Store them somewhere accessible.
3. Remove Personal Items
Auto transport carriers are not licensed to carry household goods. Personal items in the car are not covered by the carrier's insurance. Remove everything of value — GPS units, chargers, sunglasses, loose change.
4. Disable Toll Tags and Parking Passes
Electronic toll devices can accidentally be triggered while on the carrier. Remove your E-ZPass, SunPass, or any fastrak transponder before shipping.
5. Keep the Fuel Tank at a Quarter
A full tank of gas adds significant weight to the vehicle. Carriers prefer a quarter tank or less. Enough to drive off the carrier and to the nearest gas station.
6. Check for Fluid Leaks
Carriers can refuse vehicles that are actively leaking fluids. Check your oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels. Address any active leaks before the pickup date.
7. Ensure the Car is in Running Condition
Standard transport assumes your car can drive onto and off of the carrier under its own power. If your vehicle is non-running, notify your shipping company in advance — specialized equipment is required and there may be an additional fee.
8. Retract or Remove Antennas
Long antennas can catch on the car above them on a multi-level carrier. Retract power antennas or remove removable ones before shipping.
9. Check Tire Pressure
Properly inflated tires ensure the vehicle loads and unloads safely. Low tires can cause problems when driving onto the ramps.
10. Leave a Spare Key
Some carriers need to move vehicles on the transport trailer during transit. Leave a spare key, or clearly label which key is for transport use.
At Pickup
Review the Bill of Lading (BOL) carefully with the carrier. The BOL is the official condition report. Note any existing damage before signing. This document is your protection at delivery.
At Delivery
Inspect the vehicle again before signing the delivery BOL. If you notice new damage that wasn't on the original report, note it on the BOL before the driver leaves. This is critical for any insurance claim.
