How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping: A Step-by-Step Checklist
Preparing your vehicle properly before auto transport can help make the pickup and delivery process smoother.
Whether you’re moving to another state, buying a car online, or transporting a vehicle for a family member, a few simple preparation steps can reduce confusion and help document your vehicle’s condition.
At Fortunate Car Lucky Transport in Burleson, TX, we encourage customers to understand the vehicle preparation process before their scheduled shipment.
Follow this guide to get your automobile ready for transportation.
Step 1: Clean Your Vehicle
Start by washing the exterior of your car.
A clean surface makes it easier to identify existing scratches, dents, paint chips, and other visible damage during the pickup inspection.
You should also remove unnecessary items from the interior.
The vehicle does not need professional detailing, but it should be clean enough for an accurate condition assessment.
Step 2: Take Photos Before Pickup
Photograph your vehicle from several angles before transportation.
Capture the front, rear, both sides, wheels, and any existing damage.
If possible, take photos in good lighting and keep the original image files.
These photographs can provide useful documentation if questions arise about the vehicle’s condition after delivery.
Step 3: Remove Personal Belongings
Auto transport carriers may restrict or prohibit personal belongings inside vehicles.
Loose items can shift during loading and transportation, and they may not be covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance.
Remove valuables, electronics, important documents, and other unnecessary belongings.
Ask about any specific rules regarding items that may remain inside the vehicle.
Step 4: Check for Mechanical Issues
Before shipping, check whether your vehicle starts, steers, brakes, and rolls normally.
If it has mechanical problems, inform the transportation provider in advance.
A non-operational vehicle may require special equipment or loading arrangements.
You should also check for visible fluid leaks and report any concerns before pickup.
Step 5: Check the Fuel Level
Auto transport carriers often request that vehicles have a relatively low fuel level, commonly around one-quarter of a tank.
This is generally enough for loading and unloading while avoiding unnecessary weight.
However, follow the specific fuel requirements provided for your shipment.
Electric vehicle owners should ask about the appropriate battery charge level and any model-specific preparation instructions.
Step 6: Secure Loose Exterior Accessories
Remove or secure accessories that could become damaged or interfere with loading.
Examples may include detachable roof racks, antennas, aftermarket accessories, and other loose exterior components.
If your vehicle has custom modifications, oversized tires, or reduced ground clearance, disclose these details before scheduling transportation.
Step 7: Disable Unnecessary Alarms
Vehicle alarm systems can sometimes activate during transportation.
If appropriate for your vehicle, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for placing the alarm in a transport-friendly mode.
Make sure the carrier receives any keys or access devices required for safe loading and unloading.
Step 8: Prepare the Required Documents
Make sure you have the identification and authorization documents requested for the shipment.
An authorized person should generally be present during pickup to review the vehicle’s condition and complete the applicable paperwork.
The bill of lading or vehicle condition report is particularly important because it documents the handover.
Read all documents before signing.
Step 9: Confirm Pickup Arrangements
Before pickup day, confirm the agreed location, estimated arrival window, contact information, and any access restrictions.
Large transport trailers may be unable to enter narrow streets or areas with limited clearance.
If necessary, arrange a nearby safe and legally accessible meeting location.
Step 10: Inspect Your Vehicle at Delivery
When your vehicle arrives, inspect it carefully before completing the delivery process.
Compare its condition with your pickup photographs and inspection documents.
If you notice any discrepancies, record them on the delivery paperwork and follow the applicable reporting procedure.
Keep copies of relevant documents for your records.
Final Car Shipping Preparation Checklist
Vehicle Shipping Checklist
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Get Ready for Your Next Auto Transport Shipment
Preparing your car correctly can make vehicle pickup, transportation, and delivery easier to manage.
Fortunate Car Lucky Transport offers open, enclosed, door-to-door, and state-to-state auto shipping options for customers in Burleson, Texas, and beyond.
Contact us at (817) 516-4528 to discuss your transportation requirements and request a quote.