How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping: A Simple Checklist
A little prep makes car shipping smoother and helps protect you if anything looks off at delivery. Work through this checklist before your carrier arrives.
1. Wash your car
A clean car makes it easy to spot and document existing scratches or dings. It’s much harder to assess condition through a layer of road grime.
2. Document the condition
Take clear, dated photos of your car from every angle — plus close-ups of any existing damage. This is your record if you need to compare condition at delivery. Do the same at drop-off.
3. Remove personal items
Carriers are licensed to transport vehicles, not household goods, and items left inside aren’t covered by cargo insurance. Clear out valuables, electronics, and loose items. Remove toll tags and parking passes too.
4. Leave about a quarter tank of fuel
You don’t need a full tank — it just adds weight. A quarter tank is enough for loading and unloading.
5. Check for leaks and mechanical issues
Note any fluid leaks and tell your carrier. If your vehicle isn’t running, say so up front so the carrier brings the right equipment (like a winch).
6. Disable the alarm and fold in mirrors
A car alarm going off in transit is a headache for everyone. Disable it, fold in the side mirrors, and retract the antenna if possible.
7. Secure or remove loose parts
Fold or remove aftermarket spoilers, remove loose racks, and secure any custom or fragile exterior parts.
8. Do a final walkaround at pickup
Complete the Bill of Lading inspection with the driver, noting your car’s condition. Keep your copy — you’ll compare against it at delivery.
That’s it. With these steps done, pickup takes just a few minutes. Ready to book? Request free quotes from licensed, insured auto-transport service providers. CarShipConnect is a referral service — we connect you with service providers rather than shipping cars ourselves.