Proper preparation ensures smooth pickup, protects your vehicle during transport, and helps avoid delays. Follow this checklist before your carrier arrives.
1. Clean Your Vehicle
A clean car isn't just about appearances—it serves an important purpose:
- Makes existing damage visible: Dirt can hide scratches and dents
- Enables accurate inspection: The driver documents your car's condition at pickup
- Protects you: If damage occurs, it's easier to identify on a clean vehicle
You don't need a professional detail—a basic wash is sufficient.
2. Document Current Condition
Before the carrier arrives, take your own photos:
- All four corners of the vehicle
- Each side (driver, passenger, front, rear)
- Close-ups of any existing damage (scratches, dents, chips)
- Interior condition
- Odometer reading
Store these photos with timestamps. They're your backup documentation if any questions arise.
3. Remove Personal Items
This is important: Carriers are not insured for personal belongings in your vehicle.
- Remove all valuables (electronics, jewelry, cash)
- Take out important documents
- Remove aftermarket electronics (GPS units, dash cams)
- Clear out the trunk and interior
A small bag (under 100 lbs) in the trunk is usually acceptable, but check with us first. Anything visible in the car is a theft risk at rest stops.
4. Mechanical Preparation
Fuel Level
Keep the tank at about 1/4 full. This provides enough fuel to load/unload while minimizing weight. Full tanks add unnecessary weight and cost.
Fluid Leaks
Check for any fluid leaks. Significant leaks can damage other vehicles on the carrier and may result in your car being refused for transport.
Battery
Ensure your battery is charged and holds a charge. The carrier needs to start your car for loading and unloading.
Tire Pressure
Check that tires are properly inflated. Low tires can cause issues during loading.
5. Disable Alarms
If your car has an aftermarket alarm system, disable it or provide instructions to the driver. An alarm going off on a carrier in the middle of the night creates problems for everyone.
6. Secure or Remove Accessories
- Antennas: Retract or remove
- Spoilers: Ensure securely attached
- Bike racks/cargo carriers: Remove
- Convertible tops: Secure in the up position
- Tonneau covers: Secure or remove
- Custom mirrors: Fold in if possible
7. Note Existing Damage
Make a written list of any existing damage:
- Scratches and their locations
- Dents or dings
- Chips in paint or glass
- Interior damage
- Mechanical issues
Share this with the driver at pickup. It will be noted on the Bill of Lading.
8. Prepare Keys and Documents
Have ready:
- One set of keys (keep a spare)
- Any gate codes or access instructions for pickup/delivery locations
- Contact information for anyone who might receive the vehicle
9. For Inoperable Vehicles
If your vehicle doesn't run, steer, or brake:
- Inform us when booking (this affects pricing and carrier selection)
- Ensure the carrier can access the vehicle with a winch or forklift
- Clear a path for loading equipment
Quick Checklist
Before Pickup:
- ☐Wash exterior
- ☐Take photos of all sides and existing damage
- ☐Remove personal items and valuables
- ☐Fill tank to 1/4
- ☐Check for fluid leaks
- ☐Ensure battery is charged
- ☐Check tire pressure
- ☐Disable alarm system
- ☐Retract antenna
- ☐Remove accessories (bike racks, etc.)
- ☐Fold in mirrors if possible
- ☐Secure convertible top
- ☐Prepare one set of keys
- ☐Note existing damage in writing
At Pickup
When the carrier arrives:
- Walk around the vehicle with the driver
- Point out any existing damage
- Review the Bill of Lading carefully before signing
- Ensure all damage is noted on the paperwork
- Get a copy of the inspection report
- Hand over one set of keys
Ready to Ship?
Get a quote and we'll guide you through the entire process.