There are a number of times in life when you may have to ship a car. This could involve moving home, sending a vehicle to a family member, or buying/selling an automobile. Shipping a car can save a lot of time and hassle compared to driving yourself, but it is also important that you know how to properly prepare your vehicle for shipment before handing over the keys. With this in mind, this post will take you through the main steps involved in getting your car ready for shipment, from cleaning your car to answering “can you ship your car with stuff inside?”. Read on to find out more.

Clean Inside & Outside

First, you should clean the vehicle inside and out. This might seem counterintuitive, but it will make it easier to spot any damage on the other side. If you are selling the vehicle, you will also want to make sure that it arrives in the best possible condition!

Take Photos

It is also wise to give your vehicle a full inspection and to take photos before handing over the keys, particularly of key areas like the wheels, windows, interior, and odometer. You should also make a note of any pre-existing issues. If there are any disputes after the car has been shipped, they will be easier to resolve as you will have evidence of the condition of the automobile before it was shipped. 

Check Tyre Pressure

You should also check the tyre pressure before shipping the vehicle and make sure that each tyre is inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. This is because over- or under-inflated tyres could be a hazard during the loading/unloading processes, especially on open carriers. 

Disable Alarms

You do not want the car alarm going off constantly during transit, so it is important to disable the alarm before handing it over (the transporter will be sure to appreciate it!). Additionally, if you have an automatic toll tag, be sure to remove it to avoid unnecessary charges if the vehicle passesthrough toll booths.

Check if You Can Pack Items Inside

“Can you ship your car with stuff inside?” Is a common question when it comes to car shipping, particularly from those who are moving home. Loading your car up with possessions can be a smart way to keep the amount you have to move yourself down, but you should always check with the shipping company beforehand. Many car shipping companies allow you to pack a limited amount in the vehicle (typically under 100 lbs), but there are often restrictions. 

Leave a Small Amount of Fuel

Finally, you should leave a small amount of fuel in the tank. It is often a requirement that the tank is no more than a quarter full to keep the vehicle light and safe during transport. A small amount is helpful for loading and unloading drives and onward travel. 

If you ever need to ship your vehicle, these are the main steps you will need to take. Whether moving to a new home or selling your vehicle, you need to make sure that you prepare the vehicle for travel so that it arrives in top condition on the other side.

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