US Map
A car is a valuable costly investment that people want to preserve in the best condition possible for as long as possible. That means avoiding driving the vehicle far distances to keep the mileage low and reduce the risk of premature wear and tear.
When it’s necessary to relocate or if a car is purchased from another state, more people turn to car shipping services.
This industry has grown significantly in the past few years, particularly with moves across the country, as maintaining a car’s integrity has become a priority. Learn tips and tricks when transporting a vehicle to another state at https://filmdaily.co/cars/essential-tips-and-tricks-to-ship-a-car-to-another-state/
Driving is less favorable nowadays considering fuel costs, traffic congestion, risk factors, and other associated expenses. Plus, purchasing cars from areas throughout the country involves delivering the vehicle to the buyer’s home via auto transport services.
Varied reasons contribute to why cars are being transported to areas around the country, but primarily, the experience is straightforward, hassle-free, affordable, and efficient. The only responsibility of the car owner is preparing the auto for a safe, secure shipment.
How To Prepare a Vehicle for Car Shipping to Another State
More people choose to transport a car to another state instead of driving. The process is simple, affordable, and efficient in comparison. With the investment put into a vehicle, the objective is to avoid adding unnecessary mileage or contributing to premature wear and tear.
Before transporting an auto, the carrier has a protocol to follow to keep the car safe and secure while in transport. Here are some steps to follow as the car owner to ensure a successful delivery.
Mechanic check
The carrier aims to deliver the vehicle in the same condition as when it was picked up. In that vein, taking the car to a mechanic for a thorough check is essential to confirm the overall condition of the auto for the transport company.
With this inspection, the mechanic must ensure the fluids are intact including adding antifreeze to the radiator. Securing the battery and checking that it’s fully charged should be included while the car is serviced. Plus, the tires must be adequately inflated to avoid possible damage with shipping.
While being serviced, the car should be checked for fluid leaks. These need to be repaired. A driver can reject the transport. If this is minor, something complex for the mechanic to fix, the shipping provider should be made aware so the driver can load the car on the trailer to avoid leaks trickling onto other vehicles.
If the vehicle doesn’t run, the driver must use proper equipment for loading on the trailer. The fee for inoperable cars is higher. If it’s possible to get it running, it will save you money and time and effort for the driver.
Detail clean
Following an inspection, the car should be detail cleaned or impeccably washed, including clearing out the interior. When freshly washed, imperfections or flaws are more visible. This lets you document any existing damage. The carrier will inspect the body and document these details before hauling.
Loose items or anything unsecured inside should be removed so that they can’t shift around when the trailer is in motion, resulting in damage. These can include chargers, GPS or DVD equipment, personal effects, and on. It’s also suggested that custom parts or accessories added to the auto should be removed.
Side view mirrors capable of being folded should be, and antennas should be removed and placed in a secure location. Aside from preventing damage, these steps will help avoid the potential for loss or theft.
Photos
Once the auto is cleaned and serviced, taking a photo of the body, including any defects or flaws, for your records is critical. This can help when the inspection is performed upon delivery. You will be able to discern existing and new damage if you need to make a report to the carrier.
Some companies suggest taking a photo of the odometer simply for peace of mind to show the car isn’t driven on its way to the new location. Carrier drivers never do this, but turning responsibility for an incredible investment, like a vehicle, over to a stranger is difficult for a car owner.
Anything you need to do to make the experience less stressful is encouraged by all auto transport companies.
Final Thought
Before turning the car over to the driver, copy the keys so you can hold onto the original set. Also leave the gas tank at ¼ to 1/8 full to keep the weight down. Also, confirming that you have adequate car insurance that will cover the auto during transport is crucial.
Most auto transport companies carry insurance on the vehicles they transport for any damage that occurs through driver error while in transit. You’ll want to make sure it’s covered in case of natural damage like weather or road debris. Read here for what you should consider when transporting a car to another state.
Following the protocol that the car shipping service sets will ensure the car can be transported to your new location securely and safely.
