How to prepare your car for shipping

Quick start:

The three biggest prep mistakes are leaving personal items in the vehicle, not documenting condition with photos, and forgetting to disable alarms or toll tags. The checklist below covers everything you need.

Car Shipping Prep Checklist

If you do nothing else, complete these items before pickup day. They reduce scheduling issues and help protect you during inspection.

  • Remove personal items
    Most carriers do not cover personal belongings. Clear out valuables, electronics, documents, and anything loose that could shift during transit.
  • Clean the exterior and take photos
    A clean vehicle makes scratches and chips easier to see. Take clear, well-lit photos from all sides plus close-ups of existing damage.
  • Disable alarms and remove toll tags
    Alarms can drain the battery during transit. Remove or disable toll devices to avoid accidental charges.
  • Leave about a quarter tank of fuel
    Enough fuel for loading/unloading is ideal. Too much fuel adds weight and can create unnecessary risk.
  • Check tire pressure and battery charge
    Proper tire pressure helps with loading, and a healthy battery prevents pickup delays—especially for vehicles that sit for extended periods.
  • Secure or remove loose exterior accessories
    Fold mirrors if needed, remove detachable spoilers or racks when possible, and secure any accessories that could move in wind or vibration.

What to Do the Day Before Pickup

A little extra preparation the day before makes pickup day go smoother and reduces the chance of rescheduling.

Confirm contact details

Make sure the driver has the correct phone number and that your voicemail is set up. If someone else will meet the driver, share that person’s name and number ahead of time.

Plan an accessible meeting spot

If you live on a tight street or in a restricted neighborhood, identify a nearby parking lot or wide road. This can prevent last-minute pickup issues.

Set aside keys and documents

You’ll typically provide keys needed to operate the vehicle. Have your ID available and keep your pickup photos easy to access.

Do a quick vehicle check

Note warning lights, record the odometer if you want a reference point, and ensure the vehicle can be started and moved if it’s operable.

Pickup Inspection: What to Expect

At pickup, the driver will do a walk-around inspection and document the vehicle’s condition on the Bill of Lading. This document is important—think of it as a condition report used at pickup and again at delivery.

Pro tip:

Walk around the car with the driver if possible. Compare your photos to the inspection notes and keep a copy of the paperwork. If the pickup happens at night, use a flashlight and take extra photos.

Delivery Inspection: Protect Yourself

Delivery is where preparation pays off. Use your pickup photos as a reference, inspect the vehicle before signing, and note anything new on the delivery paperwork immediately.

Delivery checklist

  • Inspect the vehicle in good light (or use a flashlight)
  • Compare to pickup photos and the original Bill of Lading notes
  • Write any new damage on the delivery paperwork before signing
  • Take photos right away if anything looks different

Special Prep Situations

Shipping a vehicle that doesn’t run

If the car is inoperable, let your transporter know upfront. Inoperable vehicles often require special loading equipment, which can impact scheduling. Have access instructions ready, and make sure the vehicle can roll and steer if possible.

Enclosed shipping prep

The prep steps are similar, but enclosed transport is often chosen for high-value vehicles. Consider removing or securing custom parts, documenting the condition more thoroughly, and confirming any special clearance needs.

Classic or low-clearance vehicles

If your vehicle has low ground clearance, mention it in advance. Drivers can take extra care during loading and may use specialized ramps. Take close-up photos of front splitters, bumpers, and underbody areas.

FAQ: Preparing a Car for Shipping

Can I leave personal items in my car during shipping?

It’s best not to. Many carriers do not cover personal belongings, and extra items can shift and cause damage. Removing personal items also helps prevent delays and inspection complications.

How much gas should I leave in the tank?

About a quarter tank is ideal—enough to load and unload the vehicle without adding unnecessary weight.

Should I wash my car before shipping?

Yes. Washing helps you document existing scratches and chips and makes inspection more accurate at pickup and delivery.

Do I need to be present at pickup and delivery?

Usually, someone should be available to release and receive the vehicle. If you can’t be there, you can designate a trusted person in advance.

What paperwork do I need?

Typically, you’ll need a set of keys and your ID. The Bill of Lading is provided at pickup and delivery and is an important part of the process.

Final Thoughts

A little prep goes a long way. Removing personal items, documenting your car with photos, and being ready for inspection are the simplest ways to protect your vehicle and avoid pickup or delivery delays. Use the checklist above, keep your pickup window flexible when you can, and you’ll be set for a smooth shipping experience.

© Smart Auto Move • Auto Transport Education