subject: Preparing To Ship Your Car [print this page] When it comes to shipping your car, its crucial that you do your research to make sure you are getting a reliable and affordable shipping company. There are many companies out there so keep your eyes open for companies that have a proven track record. Remember that every company offers different services so make sure you read the terms and conditions, as some companies may have different clauses you want to be aware of. Make sure that you get every thing in writing so you have some thing to refer to later.
The first thing you should figure out is the specific pick-up and delivery dates. Most delays in shipment are because of customers not being at the specified location of pick-up, on time. Its in the companies best interest to get you the car ASAP, so do every thing you can to be on time. Realize that the dates are often estimates and not guaranteed times like FedEx or UPS. Plan ahead and give yourself some cushion in case there are unforeseen problems, which would delay shipment.
Its important to know what kind of car shipping method you will choose with a company. There are open carrier shipments and also closed carrier shipments, with the former being more common. The major difference is that the open shipments expose your vehicle to the elements. Most individual car shipments are done open carrier, because it's cheaper than going with the enclosed carrier. The vehicles that are most commonly used for closed carrier shipments are motorcycles, and luxury vehicles.
Before you send your vehicle off make sure that you do some interior and exterior cleaning. Give your vehicle a good wash and wax so that you can highlight any current dents and dings, and document them for your own protection. It does not hurt to take a picture and have that for records as well. It's important that you take off any customized accessories and gadgets that you have added to your car. This will make transportation of your vehicle easier and also it will guarantee that theses items will not be stolen. Don't leave any thing in your vehicle lying around. Its smart to leave your gas tank near empty, so that your vehicle weighs less, which means you pay less on shipping. Leave your car with a full battery, fluids and properly inflated tires. The more prepared your vehicle is the less problems you have to worry about.
