5 Tips for Preparing Your Car for Long-Distance Transport

1. Clean Your Car Inside and Out

Before sending your car off on a long-distance journey, it's essential to give it a thorough cleaning. This means both the exterior and the interior. A clean car makes it easier to perform a detailed inspection and spot any potential issues.

Cleaning the interior also ensures that no personal items are left behind, which could be lost or damaged during transport. Plus, a clean car is more pleasant to receive at the end of its journey.

2. Document Your Car’s Condition

Once your car is spotless, take the time to document its current condition. This includes taking detailed photographs from multiple angles and noting any existing damage, such as scratches, dents, or chips.

Having a comprehensive record will be invaluable if you need to make an insurance claim for any damage that occurs during transport. Make sure to date the photos and keep a copy of them for your records.

3. Check Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure

It's crucial to check all the fluid levels in your car before transport. This includes engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid. If any of these fluids are low, top them up to the recommended levels.

Don't forget to check your tire pressure as well. Properly inflated tires help ensure the car is transported safely and can also prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

4. Remove Personal Items and Accessories

For safety and security reasons, it's best to remove all personal items from your car before transport. This includes any loose items in the glove compartment, trunk, and back seat. Personal items can shift during transport, potentially causing damage.

Additionally, remove any custom accessories, such as spoilers, bike racks, or antennae, to prevent them from being damaged or causing damage to other vehicles.

5. Disable Alarms and Secure Your Car

To avoid any disturbances during the transport process, make sure to disable any car alarms. An activated alarm could drain your battery and cause unnecessary complications for the transport company.

Finally, ensure your car is securely locked and that the handbrake is engaged. You may also want to provide a spare key to the transport company in case they need to move your car.

By following these five tips, you can ensure that your car is well-prepared for long-distance transport. Taking these steps will help protect your vehicle and give you peace of mind during its journey.