Whether shipping a car or van to a destination within the United States or Shipping to a foreign destination, the following tips will help ensure your automobile arrives safe and sound. For more information about insurance coverage go to this page for a complete roundup.
Guidelines for Safe Automobile Shipping
- The car, van or SUV should be in running condition. If it is unable to be driven on the trailer, then extra charges will apply which may be cost prohibitive.
- The carrier must be informed of any modifications or changes made to your car or truck such as a 4x4 kit, vehicle lowered, skirts added, etc.
- Most carriers will not accept a truck or SUV over seven feet in height.
- The ground clearance on your car must be at least four inches.
- The carrier must be able to get in touch with you during the move; a cell phone is the preferred method.
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Shipment
- Make sure there are no leaks such as oil, hydraulic fluids, engine coolant, etc.
- certain that the battery is well secured.
- automobile should be clean with a minimum of an eighth of tank of gas but no more than half a tank of gas.
- The alarm system must be turned off, disconnected or disabled.
- You must remove any CD players, car phones, remote controls or anything not built in to the vehicle.
- Any personal belongings must be removed as well all antennas lowered.
- You must provide to the driver a set of all keys to the vehicle.
- Any type of luggage racks, ski racks or bike racks must be removed.
- Is your automobile ready for a new climate? Make sure you have the correct engine coolant, transmission and engine oil installed.
Requirements for Inspection of the Vehicle
- time of pickup and delivery, you or someone that you trust must be present for the initial inspection.
- At the same time, you or your friend will be required to sign the Bill of Lading.
- You or your friend will also be required to confirm the condition of the vehicle.
- If there is any damage at time of pickup, that will be described on the Bill of Lading. If any additional damage occurs during transit, then the carrier will note that on the same Bill.
Remember, at LocalMovers.com you have all the resources at your fingertips to successfully plan and complete every phase of your move just follow our step by step advice to have the peace of mind to know that your items will arrive as you expected.