Shipping a car between states can simplify a relocation, a vehicle purchase, or a long-distance move. However, preparing your vehicle before pickup is important for helping the process run smoothly.
Whether you are shipping a sedan from Atlanta, Georgia, or arranging transportation for an SUV, truck, or specialty vehicle, a few practical steps can help you protect your interests and prepare for delivery.
1. Clean Your Vehicle Before Pickup
A reasonably clean exterior makes it easier to identify and document the vehicle’s existing condition.
You do not necessarily need professional detailing. Removing heavy dirt and washing the exterior is often sufficient to make scratches, dents, and other visible marks easier to inspect.
Pay particular attention to areas around the bumpers, doors, mirrors, wheels, and windows.
2. Photograph the Vehicle’s Condition
Take clear, dated photographs before the carrier collects your vehicle.
Photograph the front, rear, both sides, roof if accessible, wheels, and any existing damage. Take close-up pictures of scratches, dents, cracked glass, or other notable conditions.
Keep the original photographs and make a backup.
During pickup, compare your photographs with the carrier’s condition report or bill of lading. Make sure visible pre-existing damage is recorded accurately, and keep a copy of the completed documentation.
Repeat the inspection at delivery and document any differences promptly.
3. Remove Personal Belongings
Before shipping, remove personal items, valuables, important documents, loose accessories, and anything that could move around inside the vehicle.
Personal belongings may be excluded from carrier insurance coverage, prohibited by carrier policy, or subject to additional restrictions. They can also add weight and create complications during inspection or transportation.
Do not assume that personal items may remain in the trunk. Ask the transportation provider for its written policy before pickup.
4. Check Fuel and Battery Requirements
Follow the carrier’s instructions regarding fuel levels. A low fuel level is commonly requested, but the vehicle may need enough fuel to be safely loaded and unloaded.
If your vehicle has an electric or hybrid powertrain, disclose this when requesting a quote. Ask about any special handling instructions and charging requirements.
Make sure the battery is in suitable condition if the vehicle needs to be driven onto or off the carrier.
5. Report Mechanical Problems
Tell the transportation provider whether your vehicle starts, steers, brakes, and rolls normally.
Vehicles that do not run may require specialized loading equipment and could incur additional charges. Modified suspensions, oversized tires, lowered vehicles, roof accessories, and other unusual dimensions should also be disclosed.
Providing accurate information helps the provider determine whether the selected carrier can accommodate the vehicle.
6. Secure Accessories and Disable Special Features as Directed
Remove detachable accessories when practical, and secure loose exterior components. Ask the carrier how to handle toll transponders, parking passes, removable antennas, alarms, and other accessories.
Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s instructions for any features that must be disabled or configured for transportation.
For electric vehicles, consult the manufacturer’s guidance and the carrier’s requirements before changing transport settings.
7. Prepare Your Documents and Contact Details
Keep your booking confirmation, carrier information, relevant vehicle documents, inspection report, and contact details accessible.
Confirm your pickup window, delivery address, and the phone number that the carrier should use to reach you.
If another person will release or receive the vehicle on your behalf, confirm that arrangement in advance and establish any required identification or authorization procedures.
8. Understand Your Insurance and Shipping Terms
Before transportation begins, ask who is responsible for moving your vehicle and what insurance applies to the shipment.
Request information about the carrier’s insurance arrangements, applicable limits and exclusions, and the process for reporting damage. Do not assume that your personal auto insurance or the carrier’s coverage applies to every circumstance.
Read the cancellation policy, payment terms, estimated delivery window, and procedures for delays or changes.
9. Plan for Pickup and Delivery
Transport trucks need sufficient space to maneuver safely. Residential streets, apartment complexes, gated communities, and areas with parking restrictions may not be suitable for large carriers.
Discuss accessibility in advance. If necessary, arrange a nearby location where the carrier can safely load or unload the vehicle.
At delivery, allow enough time to inspect the vehicle before completing the paperwork.