Preparing your vehicle for shipping takes about 30 minutes and can prevent issues during transport. Here is your complete checklist.
Before the Carrier Arrives
1. Clean Your Vehicle
Wash the exterior so existing damage (scratches, dents, chips) is clearly visible during the pre-transport inspection. This protects you if you need to file a claim later.
2. Document Existing Damage
Take detailed photos of your vehicle from all angles — front, back, both sides, roof, and all four corners. Include close-ups of any existing damage. Date-stamp your photos or email them to yourself for a verifiable record.
3. Reduce Fuel Level
Keep your fuel tank at about 1/4 full. This reduces weight (saving on transport costs) while keeping enough fuel for loading and unloading the vehicle.
4. Remove Personal Items
Remove all personal belongings from the vehicle. Personal items are not covered by carrier cargo insurance. Some carriers allow a small box in the trunk (under 100 lbs), but check first. Never leave valuables, documents, or electronics in the vehicle.
5. Remove or Secure Loose Parts
- • Retract or remove antennas
- • Remove bike racks, cargo boxes, and roof-mounted accessories
- • Fold in side mirrors if possible
- • Secure or remove any aftermarket spoilers or ground effects that extend beyond the vehicle profile
6. Check Mechanical Basics
- • Verify tire pressure is adequate (no flats)
- • Ensure the battery is charged (the driver needs to drive the car on and off the trailer)
- • Check for fluid leaks — carriers may refuse vehicles with active leaks
- • Make sure the car starts and the brakes work
7. Disable Alarms and Toll Transponders
Disable your car alarm to prevent it from going off during transport. Remove or deactivate toll transponders (E-ZPass, SunPass) so you are not charged for the carrier's route.
8. Provide One Set of Keys
Give the driver one set of keys. They need them to drive the vehicle on and off the trailer. You will get them back at delivery.
During Pickup
9. Inspect the Bill of Lading (BOL)
The driver will walk around your vehicle and note its condition on the Bill of Lading. Review this document carefully. Make sure all existing damage is documented. Do not sign until you agree with the condition report.
10. Keep Your Copy
Keep your copy of the pickup BOL. You will need it to compare against the delivery BOL.
At Delivery
11. Inspect Before Signing
When your vehicle arrives, inspect it carefully before signing the delivery BOL. Compare it to the pickup BOL. If there is any new damage, note it on the delivery BOL before signing. Take photos immediately.
Following this checklist ensures a smooth transport experience and protects you in the unlikely event of a damage claim. Questions? Call State Wide Auto Transport at (855) 469-8090.