# How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping: A Complete Checklist
Shipping a vehicle can be a convenient way to move a car across Texas or transport it to another state. Preparing your vehicle before pickup can make the process easier, help document its condition, and reduce the chance of delays.
EverSafe Vehicle Transport helps customers explore vehicle transport options based on their vehicle, route, and scheduling requirements. Use this checklist to prepare for your upcoming shipment.
## 1. Clean Your Vehicle
Wash the exterior before the scheduled pickup. A clean vehicle makes it easier for you and the carrier representative to inspect its condition and identify existing scratches, dents, chips, or other visible marks.
Cleaning the interior is also helpful. Remove trash and loose items so the vehicle is ready for transport.
## 2. Remove Personal Belongings
Remove luggage, electronics, valuables, documents, and other personal belongings from the vehicle. Personal items may not be covered by the carrier’s cargo insurance and may be restricted by the carrier’s policies.
Check the glove compartment, center console, trunk, door pockets, and under the seats. Ask the transport provider about any permitted items before pickup rather than assuming that personal belongings can remain inside the car.
## 3. Document the Vehicle’s Condition
Take clear photographs of the vehicle from several angles, including the front, rear, sides, wheels, windshield, and any existing damage. Keep the photographs with your shipping records.
At pickup, review the vehicle inspection report or bill of lading carefully. Make sure existing damage is recorded accurately before signing. Repeat the inspection at delivery and compare the vehicle’s condition with the original documentation.
If you notice a discrepancy, document it promptly and follow the carrier’s procedures for reporting damage.
## 4. Check for Leaks and Mechanical Issues
Inform the transport provider about any fluid leaks, mechanical problems, alarm systems, or special loading requirements. A vehicle that does not run may require specialized equipment, and not every carrier can accommodate inoperable vehicles.
If your vehicle has a low ground clearance, modified suspension, oversized tires, or other unusual features, mention these details when requesting a quote.
## 5. Prepare the Fuel Level and Battery
Follow the carrier’s instructions regarding fuel levels. A low fuel level is commonly requested because the vehicle will be transported rather than driven over the entire route.
Make sure the battery is secure and the vehicle can be accessed as required for loading. If the battery is weak or the car cannot start, tell the provider in advance.
## 6. Secure Accessories and Loose Parts
Remove detachable accessories when practical, including removable roof racks, custom antennas, and loose exterior attachments. Secure or remove toll tags and parking passes where appropriate.
Fold in mirrors if possible and ensure windows and doors are properly closed. Tell the carrier about aftermarket parts or accessories that could require extra care.
## 7. Confirm Pickup and Delivery Details
Verify the pickup and delivery addresses, contact numbers, dates, and any special access instructions. Large transport trucks may not be able to enter narrow residential streets, parking garages, or locations with low overhead clearance.
If direct access is not practical, coordinate an accessible nearby meeting point with the transport provider.
## 8. Prepare Your Documents and Keys
Have the keys available and follow the provider’s instructions regarding registration, identification, or other documentation. Requirements can vary depending on the shipment and applicable rules.
Keep a copy of your quote, booking confirmation, inspection paperwork, and contact details for reference.
## 9. Review the Transport and Insurance Terms
Before confirming the shipment, review the agreed transport method, estimated pickup and delivery windows, payment terms, cancellation policy, and any applicable additional fees.
Ask who will transport the vehicle and how insurance and damage claims are handled. Request clarification about exclusions, deductibles, limits, and the procedure for reporting concerns.
## 10. Complete a Final Walk-Around
Before handing over the vehicle, check that personal belongings have been removed, the exterior has been photographed, loose accessories have been secured, and any special instructions have been communicated.
At delivery, inspect the vehicle before completing the handoff. Record any new visible damage on the delivery paperwork and contact the responsible transport provider promptly if an issue arises.
## Arrange Your Vehicle Shipment With EverSafe
Preparing your car ahead of time can make vehicle shipping more straightforward. EverSafe Vehicle Transport offers open car transport, enclosed car transport, door-to-door auto transport, and state-to-state auto transport options, subject to route and carrier availability.
Contact EverSafe to discuss your vehicle, route, and preferred schedule.
**EverSafe Vehicle Transport**
2607 Cedar View Dr, Arlington, TX 76006
Phone: (817) 591-8567
Email: info@eversafevehicletransport.us
Website: https://eversafevehicletransport.us