How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing your vehicle before transportation is an important part of the auto shipping process.

Whether you’re arranging open car transport, enclosed vehicle shipping, or state-to-state transportation, taking a few simple steps can help reduce complications during pickup and delivery.

At Iselin Auto Shipping, we encourage customers to understand the preparation process before their scheduled transportation date.

Step 1: Wash Your Vehicle

Clean the exterior of your vehicle before pickup.

A clean surface makes it easier to identify scratches, dents, chips, and other existing cosmetic damage during the inspection.

You do not need professional detailing, but removing excessive dirt and debris is helpful.

Step 2: Photograph the Vehicle

Take clear photographs of the vehicle before it is loaded.

Capture the front, rear, both sides, wheels, windshield, roof, and any existing damage.

Photographs can provide useful supporting documentation if questions arise about the vehicle’s condition after delivery.

Keep your photos until the shipment is completed and any concerns are resolved.

Step 3: Remove Loose Personal Belongings

Remove valuables, loose accessories, and unnecessary personal belongings from the vehicle.

Auto transport carriers generally focus on transporting vehicles rather than household goods.

Personal property may not be covered by carrier cargo insurance, and some carriers prohibit leaving belongings inside vehicles.

Confirm the specific carrier’s policy before pickup.

Step 4: Check for Mechanical Problems

Make sure your vehicle is ready for loading and unloading.

Check the battery, tires, fluid levels, and potential leaks.

If the vehicle does not start, steer, brake, or roll properly, notify the shipping provider in advance.

Non-operational vehicles may require specialized equipment or additional handling.

Step 5: Keep the Fuel Level Low

Many carriers recommend leaving approximately one-quarter tank of fuel in the vehicle.

This is generally enough for loading and unloading while avoiding unnecessary weight.

However, follow the specific fuel-level instructions provided by your transportation carrier.

For electric vehicles, confirm the recommended battery charge level and any special preparation requirements.

Step 6: Secure Accessories

Remove or secure loose exterior accessories when possible.

Examples may include detachable roof racks, bicycle carriers, removable antennas, and other aftermarket attachments.

Inform the carrier about custom modifications, oversized tires, lift kits, or unusually low ground clearance.

These details may affect loading procedures and trailer compatibility.

Step 7: Prepare Your Keys and Documents

Have the required vehicle keys and shipment information ready.

The driver may need a working key to load, reposition, or unload the vehicle.

You or your authorized representative should also be prepared to review and sign the Bill of Lading or vehicle inspection paperwork.

Confirm any additional documentation requirements before pickup.

Step 8: Confirm Pickup Arrangements

Review the pickup date or window, address, contact information, and any access restrictions.

If your street is too narrow for a large auto carrier, you may need to meet the driver at a nearby accessible location.

Keep your phone available during the pickup window so the driver can coordinate arrival.

Step 9: Inspect the Vehicle at Pickup

Before the vehicle is loaded, inspect it with the carrier representative.

Make sure any existing damage is accurately documented.

Review the inspection report carefully before signing it, and retain a copy for your records.

Step 10: Inspect the Vehicle at Delivery

When your vehicle arrives, compare its condition with the pickup inspection report.

Check the exterior, wheels, glass, and other accessible areas.

If you notice new damage, document it with photographs and report it according to the carrier’s procedures. Record concerns on the delivery paperwork before signing whenever possible.

Final Car Shipping Checklist

Ready to Ship Your Vehicle?

Proper preparation can make your vehicle shipping experience more organized and help avoid preventable delays.

Iselin Auto Shipping assists customers with open, enclosed, door-to-door, and state-to-state auto transportation options.

For more information or to request a shipping quote, call (848) 272-2458 or visit iselinautoshipping.com.