Shipping a car between states can save time when relocating, starting a new job, purchasing a vehicle from another state, or sending a car to a family member. Before the carrier arrives, a few preparation steps can help make pickup and delivery more organized.
Here is how to prepare your vehicle for state-to-state auto transport.
1. Clean the Vehicle for Inspection
Wash the exterior when practical so scratches, dents, paint chips, and other existing damage are easier to identify.
The goal is not to make the vehicle look new. It is to make the existing condition easier to inspect and document.
Take clear photographs of the front, rear, sides, roof, wheels, and any areas with visible damage. Keep these photographs until the shipment is complete.
2. Remove Personal Belongings
Remove luggage, electronics, valuables, important documents, and loose items from the cabin and trunk.
Personal belongings may not be covered by the carrier’s vehicle cargo insurance, and carriers may restrict items left inside a vehicle. Additional weight can also create safety and compliance concerns.
Check storage compartments, door pockets, the glove box, and the trunk before pickup.
3. Disclose Mechanical Problems
Tell the transport provider if your vehicle has mechanical problems, fluid leaks, a dead battery, damaged tires, or any other issue that could affect loading and unloading.
If the vehicle is not operational, mention this before requesting a quote. Non-running vehicles may require special equipment, and not every carrier can accommodate them.
Follow the provider’s instructions for preparing the vehicle for transport.
4. Keep Fuel at an Appropriate Level
Vehicles generally need only enough fuel for loading and unloading. Keeping the tank at a low level helps avoid unnecessary weight.
Follow the transport provider’s specific instructions, especially if your vehicle has special requirements.
5. Secure Accessories and Disclose Modifications
Remove loose accessories and secure detachable parts where appropriate. Fold in mirrors if possible and make sure convertible tops or movable components are secured.
Inform the provider about roof racks, spoilers, lift kits, oversized tires, lowered suspension, or other modifications. These can affect the vehicle’s dimensions and loading requirements.
6. Prepare Keys and Contact Details
Make sure the required keys are available and that you or an authorized representative can coordinate the handover.
Confirm the pickup address, delivery address, phone numbers, and preferred timing. Keep important personal documents with you unless specific documentation is required for the shipment.
7. Review the Pickup Inspection
At pickup, review the vehicle condition report carefully. Make sure visible damage is recorded accurately and take photographs to keep with your records.
At delivery, inspect the vehicle in good lighting when possible. Compare its condition with the pickup report and photographs. If you notice a concern, document it and follow the applicable claims procedure promptly.
Keep the transport agreement, inspection reports, photographs, and relevant communications.
8. Confirm the Shipping Details
Before the shipment begins, verify the transport method, price, pickup window, estimated transit time, payment requirements, and cancellation terms.
Transit estimates can change because of traffic, weather, road conditions, carrier scheduling, and other circumstances. Ask how updates will be communicated and whom to contact if your plans change.
9. Plan for Door-to-Door Delivery
Door-to-door auto transport aims to pick up and deliver the vehicle as close as safely and legally possible to the requested addresses.
Large transport trucks may not be able to access narrow streets, gated communities, apartment complexes, or areas with low overhead clearance. If necessary, the driver may arrange a nearby safe meeting point.
Arrange Your Interstate Shipment
StrongHold Auto Transport helps customers explore state-to-state auto transport options from Frisco, Texas, to other destinations, subject to route and carrier availability.
Preparing your vehicle, documenting its condition, and confirming your shipment details can help make the transport process smoother.
Contact StrongHold Auto Transport with your vehicle information, pickup and delivery locations, and preferred dates to request an estimate.