Before Jack Frost shows up at your home, have collector car investment protected and waiting for him. Snow, salt, and mud can do a real number on a classic car and diminish its value. You simply don’t know what is hidden under that snow. Why increase the risks of damage …
No doubt a daunting undertaking, transporting your vehicle across the country triggers stress and fear of the unknown. Fortunately, ample forethought and attention to detail can turn this taxing pursuit into a manageable endeavor. Here are some tips and tricks to heed as you prepare to ship your car cross-country.
First things first, you’ll need to select a shipping company. In the hopes of finding a reliable, affordable, and proficient auto transport company, you’ll want to conduct thorough research. When it comes to online resources, there’s no such thing as exhausting them.
There’s a wealth of information on the web that’ll help you discern a reputable business from an incompetent one. Before crossing any t’s or dotting any i’s, you’ll want to be sure that the company you’re employing suits your preferences. Read reviews, ask for quotes, and don’t be coy about voicing your wants and needs. As Innovate Car points out, it’s beneficial to compare quotes from multiple shipping companies.
After choosing a shipping company, your insurance agency should be the next port of call. Though most auto transport companies offer sufficient coverage, an insurance broker can tell you if supplemental coverage is warranted. Consider contacting your insurance company a month before the trip to ensure that the matter is resolved with ample time to spare.
When the auto transport is all said and done, there’s nothing more aggravating than having your vehicle returned in poor condition. With that said, it’s wise to check the tires before the shipping process is underway. Unlike oil changes, there isn’t a predetermined date or figure to reference for tire replacements. What’s more, if you find that you need new tires, you’ll need to budget accordingly. Perhaps you’ll have to forego a perk that the shipping company was offering. In any case, it’s best to prepare for these hiccups.
Not only is this a hygienic step, but it’s also a wildly sensible one. If you ship your vehicle off in tip-top shape, it’s easy to identify any scratches or dents that may occur along the way. Above all else, you’ll want to be sure that the company you’ve hired is held accountable should any mishaps arise.
Whether it’s a short journey or not, you’ll want to take all personal items out of the car before bidding it farewell. Said valuables include your registration, license, insurance ID, jewelry, music devices, and toll tags. For peace of mind, you may want to consider removing all belongings from your vehicle to ensure that no item gets misplaced or overlooked.
When the auto transport company returns your car, you should inspect the ins and outs of your vehicle. You’ll likely be asked to sign a form that confirms the car was returned in its original condition. In an effort to give accurate information, an inspection is necessary.
Shipping your car comes with many advantages. For starters, you can avoid unnecessary mileage that would result in possible wear and tear. You can freely move to a new home with your mind at ease. You can have your brand-new luxury car safely delivered to your residence.
When you decide to hire a shipping company, your vehicle must be ready before the carrier picks it up.
Here are some tips to quickly prep your car before shipping it away.
A simple yet crucial thing to do before delivery. There are many benefits to washing your car. Dirt and dust tend to conceal dings and scratches. Failing to notice these marks beforehand can result in a misunderstanding between you and your shipping company. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with your car’s state and condition so you can quickly check if there’s any damage done during transit.
After washing, it’s also a good idea to clear your car before shipment. Your moving company might charge you extra fees for additional items unless they agree that you can leave things inside. Plus, they won’t be held responsible for any missing belongings that you keep in your vehicle.
Remove any car accessories, add-ons, and unnecessary stuff in your car, such as:
You may be tempted to leave a dashcam on so you know what happens during transit, but carriers strongly prohibit this practice. As a valuable piece of equipment, a dashcam only invites bad people to break into your car.
In addition to keeping your car clean, you should also make sure that it’s working in perfect condition.
Nobody wants to see their car damage. To avoid disputes after delivery, you should record your car’s condition in advance. This way, you’ll have evidence in case things go south.
Submit your findings to your shipping company so that they’re aware of what to look out for.
Most companies will ask you to drain your fuel tank because a filled tank can pose a threat during transport. But remember not to empty your tank dry. Caravan Auto Transport suggests leaving your tank at least ¼ full of fuel so as to not damage the engine and to make it easier to head to the station to fill up after delivery.
Shipping companies usually charge vehicles that are unable to drive on and off the trailer. Believe it or not, but it occasionally happens to some people. Don’t forget to charge your battery to help avoid fees like this.
When checking the business’s insurance certificate, there should be coverage amounts for cargo limits, workers’ compensation, liability, possible damage, and any applicable deductible. This guarantees that you get the right compensation if there’s any trouble later on.
You must ensure you and the company are aligned for the right schedule to proceed accordingly. Let them know of your plan and designate a specific time for the car pick up. It helps to avoid delays. Keep in mind that situations can change. Thus, it’s vital to schedule several days ahead of time for the operation to proceed successfully.
Due to the changing weather conditions that accompany long distance travel, your car’s engine might crack or develop problems. Ensuring that there’s sufficient antifreeze and that it’s appropriately working can save your vehicle from irreversible damage.
A car isn’t a cheap investment. You can’t easily replace it unless you’re extra rich. That’s why you want to make sure that it’s handled with care and shipped properly. Choosing a good shipping company plays a huge role in helping your car arrive at its destination safely. Be sure to follow these steps, and your car will be good to go for shipment.
