How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping: 10 Essential Steps
Preparing your vehicle properly before transportation can help make the pickup and delivery process more organized.
Whether you’re shipping a car across Texas or arranging a cross-country move, a few simple preparations can reduce confusion and help protect your interests.
Here are ten practical steps to follow before your vehicle is collected.
1. Wash Your Vehicle
Clean your car before the pickup inspection.
A clean exterior makes it easier to identify existing scratches, dents, chips, and other visible damage.
This is particularly useful when completing the vehicle condition report.
2. Take Detailed Photographs
Photograph your vehicle from multiple angles before shipping.
Include the front, rear, both sides, wheels, roof, and any existing damage.
Keep the original images and their timestamps when possible.
3. Remove Personal Belongings
Remove valuable items, important documents, electronics, and loose personal belongings.
Many carriers restrict items stored inside transported vehicles.
Confirm the carrier’s specific rules before pickup.
4. Check for Fluid Leaks
Inspect the vehicle for visible oil, coolant, or other fluid leaks.
Report known mechanical problems before booking.
Leaks can affect loading arrangements and may create risks for other vehicles on the carrier.
5. Keep the Fuel Level Low
Carriers often recommend leaving approximately one-quarter of a tank of fuel.
This is generally enough for loading and unloading while avoiding unnecessary additional weight.
Follow the specific instructions provided by your carrier.
6. Check the Battery and Tires
If the vehicle is being shipped as operable, confirm that the battery is charged and the tires are properly inflated.
A vehicle that cannot start or move safely may require special loading equipment.
7. Secure Loose Accessories
Remove or secure detachable accessories such as temporary roof racks, external decorations, and loose aftermarket components.
If the vehicle has modifications, disclose them before shipping.
8. Disable Alarm Systems When Appropriate
Vehicle alarms can sometimes activate during transportation.
Ask your carrier whether the alarm should be disabled and provide any necessary operating instructions.
9. Review Your Shipping Documents
Read the booking agreement and transportation terms carefully.
Confirm the pickup and delivery addresses, vehicle information, payment arrangements, and contact details.
Understand the insurance provisions and procedures for reporting damage.
10. Arrange Pickup and Delivery Contacts
Make sure you or an authorized adult will be available at the pickup and delivery locations.
The designated person should be prepared to participate in the vehicle inspection and sign the necessary documents.
Keep your phone accessible for scheduling updates.
What Happens During Vehicle Pickup?
The carrier generally inspects the vehicle and records its condition on the shipping documentation.
Review the report carefully and make sure any visible existing damage is accurately documented.
The vehicle is then loaded and secured for transportation.
What Should You Do at Delivery?
Inspect the vehicle before signing the final delivery paperwork.
Compare its condition with your photographs and pickup inspection report.
If you discover new damage, document it immediately and follow the claim reporting instructions in your agreement.
Ship Your Vehicle With Routevex Auto Shipping
Routevex Auto Shipping helps customers explore vehicle shipping options from Fort Worth, Texas, to destinations across the country.
Whether you need open, enclosed, door-to-door, or interstate auto transportation, proper preparation is an important part of the shipping process.
Call (817) 765-3315 to discuss your upcoming shipment.