Moving a vehicle can be stressful, but following some best practices makes the process smoother. Whether you’re driving your car yourself across state lines or shipping it professionally, taking the right steps ensures your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.
In this guide, we’ll cover tips for preparing your vehicle, choosing transportation methods like auto transport services, and handling details along the way. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly how to move a car or truck like a pro.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport
Proper preparation protects your vehicle during transport. Here are some key things to do:
- Remove personal belongings like loose items, phone chargers cables etc. Secure larger valuables in your moving boxes.
- Empty and clean the interior/exterior prior to transport. Having a dirt free vehicle helps the driver handle it carefully.
- Check fluids such as oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant and fill if needed to avoid trouble on the road.
- Note mileage at drop off for insurance purposes in case any issues arise. Take photos as documentation as well.
- Disconnect the battery on longer hauls to prevent battery drain if the vehicle won’t be started for extended periods.
- Consider using moving pads or barriers on parts that stick out at bumpers, mirrors etc. to prevent scratches during transit.
Preparing your vehicle properly gives auto transporters one less thing to worry about so they can focus fully on safety. A clean, low-maintenance car means a smooth experience for all involved.
Choosing a Transport Method
There are a few primary ways to transport your vehicle over long distances:
Driving It Yourself
For shorter distances under 500 miles, this avoids costs but requires long road trips. Plan breaks to stay safe.
Towing With an Open Trailer
Works for smaller cars up to 500 miles if you can tow securely. Rental trailers may have mileage limits.
Enclosed Auto Transport
For longer trips over 500 miles, this protects against elements and can haul multiple vehicles. Reputable carriers should have continuous GPS tracking of your vehicle.
Shipping Services
Recommended for long interstate moves over 1,000 miles, shipping ensures trained drivers handle transport on an enclosed carrier like a car hauler. Read reviews to find reliable pros.
Assessing your distance, schedule flexibility, and budget helps determine the best method. For long hauls, auto transport services simplify the move through their commercial-grade equipment and experience.
Factors When Choosing an Auto Transport Company
If shipping your vehicle, evaluating auto transporters is key. Consider:
- Carrier reputation – Thorough research on sites like wowmover.com helps verify a company treats vehicles properly.
- Included coverage – Check standard insurance limits. You may need to add extra coverage for high value classics.
- Equipment – Enclosed car haulers provide better protection than open carriers. Newer fleet trucks indicate – maintenance investment.
- Transit times – Book 2-3 weeks in advance for holidays. The typical time is 5-10 business days depending on origin/destination.
- Pricing – Get quotes from 3-5 firms. Costs depend on route, car size, specs needed. Low prices may lack quality service.
- Reviews – Read unbiased third party reviews and always inspect photos carriers provide of your vehicle.
Taking time to find a reputable auto transport company is crucial for avoiding damage or delays. Sticking with established pros assures smooth vehicle delivery.
Preparing for Delivery
Once the transport process begins, stay informed along the way:
- Schedule pickup appointment well in advance and have paperwork ready.
- Ask carriers for continuous updates and verify estimated delivery dates haven’t changed.
- Inspect vehicle thoroughly upon handover. Note any new issues immediately on the condition report.
- Test drive before signing delivery acceptance. Report problems while the driver’s present.
- Consider having new address prevent theft by storing keys securely until you move in.
- Change title/registration with your local Department of Motor Vehicles as soon as possible.
Being organized and vigilant at pickup/delivery guarantees the transport process goes to plan without stress. Ask carriers for delivery assistance if needed as well.
Handle Any Issues Professionally
No process is perfect, but taking the right steps avoids problems:
- Note damage, missing parts or delays immediately. Don’t sign until issues resolved.
- Contact transporter promptly to address the situation upfront before it becomes complicated.
- Keep records of communications for accountability including photos, receipts and estimates.
- Give reasonable time for a resolution before involving third parties like consumer groups.
- Consider filing a claim with your insurance if the transporter refuses reasonable solutions.
Representing your interests firmly yet reasonably leads to positive outcomes. Most companies strive to remedy mistakes, so focus on solutions rather than accusations.
Putting It All Together
Proper preparation, vendor research, communication, and documentation are key to any successful vehicle move over state lines. By following best practices:
- Your vehicle arrives in as-expected condition through an organized transport process.
- Issues get addressed upfront before the situation escalates, saving time and stress.
- You avoid losses or expenses down the road from less-than-ideal transportation choices.
Taking advantage of useful tools like auto transport reviews at Wowmover along each step means a smooth driving experience awaits you and your car, truck, or SUV at your new home. Let the experts handle the heavy lifting so you can focus fully on your big move. Your vehicle will thank you for it!
