How to Prepare Your Car for Shipping: A Pickup Day Checklist

Before the carrier arrives

Wash your car. A clean vehicle makes it far easier to spot existing scratches, dents, or chips during the pre pickup inspection, which protects you if a claim is ever needed.

What to remove

Take out personal items, toll transponders, and parking passes. Carriers are not permitted to transport personal belongings inside the vehicle, and loose items can shift and cause interior damage during transit.

Fuel and battery

Leave about a quarter tank of fuel. A full tank adds weight for no reason, and an empty one risks the carrier not being able to load or unload the car under its own power.

The inspection report

Walk the vehicle with the driver at pickup and again at delivery. Every mark should be noted on the bill of lading. This document is your record if anything needs to be addressed after delivery.

Common questions

Should I disable my car alarm?

Yes, or leave clear instructions for the driver. An alarm that triggers repeatedly during loading and transit can drain the battery and cause delays.

Can I ship a car that does not run?

Yes, but you need to tell the broker in advance. Non running vehicles require a carrier with a winch, and not every truck has one, so this affects pricing and carrier assignment.

What if I am not there for pickup or delivery?

You can authorize someone else to release or receive the vehicle, but they need to sign the bill of lading and document the condition on your behalf.