Preparing a Car for Transport

Prevent damages and claims

Properly preparing your car for transport is the easiest way to protect your car from damage. First, you will want to check for and document any pre-existing damage. You can do this in four easy steps:

1. Thoroughly wash your car.
2. Make a written record of any chips, nicks or other cosmetic damage.
3. Take pictures of the car from several angles as well as close-up shots of any damage.
4. Date the photographs and written record.
5. Verify that the transporter makes an official note in addition to your personal records.

Also, remember to remove any personal items from the interior of your car, including the trunk as an automotive transporter’s insurance will not cover items inside your vehicle and such items add to the weight, causing damage that will not be covered.

Check before shipping a car

Next, you will want to check your car for any mechanical problems to ensure safe transport. Even though your car will be driven very little, it should still be in good working order as cars with mechanical issues can cause unforeseen delays and damages:

• Make sure the battery has a full charge and that the tires are properly inflated.
• Top off all fluids in the car
• Run down your gas tank to a quarter or eighth full. An almost-empty tank will save weight and help keep your shipment moving along quickly.
• Keep an eye on the vehicle for a few weeks prior to shipment, if there are any leaks or mechanical problems make sure the driver knows. Vehicles with leaks should never be placed on the top rack of a multi-car carrier because they can drip on the vehicles below.
• Document mechanical problems and write down any special steps needed to drive your car on and off the trailer (including problems starting or stopping your car). Give these instructions to your driver.

Prepare for on and off loading

Finally, you need to prepare your car to be loaded on and off your car transporter’s truck or trailer to help your transporter ship your car with ease. Remember, the better you prepare your car for shipment, the more likely it will arrive on time and without damage.

If you have a convertible, make sure the top is secured as thoroughly as possible to avoid damage from air, debris, or moisture. If you cannot secure the top, add extra protection with a wind-resistant tarp.

Fold back your mirrors and retract the antenna. Any specialty items, like fog lights, ground effects, or spoilers, should be secured or removed as should your radio faceplate, if possible.

Finally, turn off or disable your car alarm. If you cannot disable the alarm, provide detailed, written instructions for the driver on how to turn off the alarm in case it is triggered.

What to Expect when Your Auto Transporter Arrives

Vehicle transport companies are rarely able to provide specific pick-up and delivery times. Unforeseen problems like traffic or breakdowns can cause potential delays. Patience and preparation are essential and will make sure both you and your vehicle transporter have a positive experience.

Don't forget to clarify payment terms. Most auto transport companies, like Tomi Trans, will require you to place a deposit, around 10-25 percent, before shipping. If you have to pay anything in advance, do so with a credit card in case charges need to be disputed later.

Transport a Vehicle

If you have any last minute questions about the vehicle shipping service, ask your driver. Confirm the terms of your contract and make sure your driver has your correct contact information.

Before you car is loaded on the trailer, note the odometer reading; though your car may be driven a little in order to load or store your vehicle, there should be no major mileage discrepancies when the car is delivered.

The Delivery

At the delivery point, the driver or a company representative should inspect the vehicle and note any damage and you should verify their assessments. Make sure to inspect the car thoroughly for damages. In addition to checking for cosmetic damages, look at the car’s undercarriage, check the odometer, and start up the car to check for mechanical problems.

Any remaining balance will be due upon delivery, usually payable in cash or cashier’s check only. It is very unlikely that an auto transporter will accept a personal check or credit card at the delivery point.

After the Vehicle Shipping Service

In the unlikely event that your car has arrived with new damages, follow your vehicle shipping service’s instructions for filing a claim. Make sure that the driver or transport company’s agent has signed your record of damages and try to file with your insurance within 24 hours.

For most shippers, once the car is delivered the shipping process is completed. If you have had a particularly positive experience with your vehicle shipping service, offer to act as a reference for potential customers.