How to Prepare Your Car for Transport: The 10-Step Checklist

Your shipment is booked and the pickup date is coming up. A little preparation now makes pickup faster, the inspection more accurate and delivery smoother. Here's how to prepare your car for transport in ten simple steps.

1. Wash & photograph

Wash the car a day or two before pickup. Dirt hides scratches and dents, and a clean car makes the inspection accurate. Then take dated photos of every side, the roof, the wheels and the interior.

2. Remove personal items

Take out everything that isn't part of the car: bags, electronics, chargers, sunglasses and loose items. Personal belongings aren't covered by carrier insurance, add weight and can shift in transit.

3. Fuel level

Leave about a quarter tank. That's enough for loading and unloading without adding unnecessary weight.

4. Battery, tires, leaks

• Make sure the battery is charged and holds a charge
• Check tire pressure
• Look for fluid leaks and tell us about any you find

If the car doesn't run, tell us when you book. Inoperable vehicles ship on winch-equipped carriers.

5. Toll tags & alarms

Remove or disable toll tags, or you may be billed for tolls along the route. Turn off the alarm, or tell the driver how to disable it, and remove garage door openers.

6. Keys

Hand over one working set of keys to the driver. Keep your spare at home. If the car has a key fob, check that its battery works.

7. Fold mirrors/antenna

Fold in the side mirrors and retract or remove any antenna. Secure or remove loose exterior parts like spoilers, bike racks and car covers.

8. Note existing damage

Make a list of existing scratches, chips and dents, and take close-ups. You'll compare this list with the driver's inspection at pickup.

9. Be present for pickup inspection

You, or an adult you authorize, should walk around the car with the driver. Point out every existing mark and make sure it's recorded.

10. Check the BOL

The Bill of Lading (BOL) is your car's condition record. Make sure all existing damage is marked on the diagram, read it before you sign and keep your copy. At delivery, inspect the car before you sign, and write any new damage on the BOL. Learn more about the Bill of Lading.

Your car shipping checklist

• ☐ Wash the car and take dated photos
• ☐ Remove personal items, toll tags and garage openers
• ☐ Leave about a quarter tank of fuel
• ☐ Check the battery, tires and any leaks
• ☐ Disable the alarm or tell the driver
• ☐ Have one set of keys ready
• ☐ Fold mirrors and secure loose parts
• ☐ List existing damage
• ☐ Be present for the pickup inspection
• ☐ Review the BOL before signing

Want to see what happens after pickup? See how it works.