Vehicle Shipping Checklist: Everything You Need to Know

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Vehicle Shipping Checklist: Everything You Need to Know

There’s more to shipping a vehicle than you may think, and failing to add one simple step to your checklist can cause big problems. Anticipating your moving needs in advance will definitely pay off. Add these simple steps to your vehicle-moving checklist to help facilitate a smooth transition.

  • Insure the Vehicle Works

    Check that the engine, brakes, battery and tires are in good working order. This can save delays and extra charges due to jump-starts, tire changes, and anything else that may have to be done by the movers in order to complete the transportation of the vehicle. Also, if your car will be traveling through a cold climate, be sure it has the proper level of antifreeze.

  • Clean the Vehicle

    Cleaning the vehicle before moving is essential. You will want to inspect it completely before and after the move, and having it clean will make it much easier to pinpoint scratches and any other damage that may occur during the process.

  • Inspect and Photograph

    Before the vehicle leaves and again when it is delivered, a full visual inspection should be carried out and photos should be taken. Any discrepancies should be taken up with the moving company immediately.

  • Remove Unnecessary Items

    Empty the vehicle of all unnecessary items. Leave only a spare tire, wrench and jack in the trunk. Avoid loading your belongings in the vehicle as this will add weight, and could incur extra charges. Remove anything that may be lost or damaged such as custom lights, special mirrors, or removable stereo equipment to decrease the weight of the vehicle and minimize the damage risk.

  • Limit the Fuel in the Tank

    It is recommended that a gas tank be no more than 1/4 full when shipping. This will provide enough fuel to get to a gas station after delivery, but not so much that it weighs the moving truck down.

  • Disable the Alarm

    A blaring alarm can drain the car's battery (and the driver), quite possibly resulting in delays and extra fees. If the alarm cannot be disabled, insure that the mover has the code or key necessary to silence the alarm should it be activated.

  • Provide Keys

    Give the movers keys or codes to the trunk, glove box, alarm, doors, ignition - anything that may have a lock. Movers must be able to access certain areas of the car should the need arise.

  • Seal Convertible Top

    If you have a convertible, insure the top is sealed (no tears or holes). In the transportation process, the vehicle can encounter all types of weather and the high-speed wind against an already-damaged top could cause further harm.

During a big move, it's quite easy to forget some of the seemingly minor details. Unfortunately, minor details can add up and cause major problems over the long haul. Plan ahead and insure these items are on your moving checklist to streamline your experience and avoid unnecessary hardships.