What Do I Need to Do Before Shipping a Vehicle?

You may have many questions about the procedure of shipping a vehicle. The following are just a few things you need to decide or do before shipping a vehicle.

Where are You Shipping a Vehicle?

The options for shipping a vehicle will be dependant upon where you are shipping it. If you are shipping a vehicle overseas, you will need to use either a ship or an air auto transport service. If you are shipping a vehicle to another location on your continent, there will usually be land-based transport options available.

What Method will You Use for Shipping a Vehicle?

Land-based transport options include using an auto transport carrier truck where your vehicle will be one of multiple cars being transported or using an enclosed car transport truck where it will be driven into the back of an enclosed truck and transported.

Motorycles are usually strapped down to a pallet and padded, or loaded into an enclosed vehicle shipping crate before they are transported.

Inspect it Well Before Shipping a Vehicle

It is crucial that you inspect your vehicle before shipping it. You will want to take note of any body damage present before it is shipped. You may want to take photographs of your vehicle, as well. Once the vehicle is transported, you will be required to inspect it and let the auto transport company know of any damage. Having the original documentation and photos will make things go much more smoothly if for any reason there is a problem.

You will need to sign paperwork before you ship your vehicle, and your signature will be required again when the vehicle has arrived at its destination so it may be released.

Empty Your Vehicle

Before shipping a vehicle, be sure to remove all valuables from it. Check the glove box and trunk before you release it for transportation. If you are shipping it overseas you will need to be especially aware of any regulations which may apply to anything you leave in your vehicle. Best advice: remove everything from your vehicle and replace it upon delivery acceptance. Spare tires should be fine, but cans of degreaser or flat-tire repair aerosol and gasoline cans may cause problems.