How to Prepare Your Car for Transport: 7-Step Pre-Shipment Checklist

Preparing your car for transport takes about 30 minutes and prevents the most common shipping problems. Here’s the 7-step pre-shipment checklist auto transport drivers actually want you to follow.

The 7-Step Pre-Shipment Checklist

1. Wash the Exterior

A clean car makes the pre-shipment inspection accurate. The driver inspects every panel and notes existing damage on the Bill of Lading (BOL) — if dirt is hiding scratches or dings, you have no record of pre-existing condition. Wash the car the day before pickup.

2. Remove All Personal Items (Or Pack Them Right)

Most carriers allow up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk and below the window line. Rules:

• Pack in soft duffel bags — no boxes, no hard luggage
• Items must be invisible from outside the vehicle
• No electronics, no firearms, no valuables (these aren’t insured)
• No flammables, fragrances, or chemicals

If you put items above the window line or visible to passersby, the driver may refuse to load — or theft becomes your problem (insurance only covers the vehicle).

3. Reduce Fuel to ~1/4 Tank

Carriers want enough fuel to load and unload (drive on/off the truck) — typically 1/8 to 1/4 tank. More fuel adds weight, which carriers are charged for. A nearly-full tank can result in surcharges or refused loading.

4. Disable Alarm and Toll Transponder

If your car has an alarm that activates from movement (most do), it’ll go off repeatedly during transit and the driver will eventually disconnect the battery. Disable the alarm before pickup.

Toll transponders (E-ZPass, FasTrak, SunPass) read on every gantry passed during transit. Remove them or wrap them in foil.

5. Take Time-Stamped Photos

This is the single most important step. Take photos of:

• All four sides of the vehicle
• The roof
• Each wheel/tire (note tread condition)
• The dashboard (with odometer reading visible)
• Any pre-existing scratches, dents, paint chips, or interior wear

Use your phone’s camera with location/time data on. These photos are your evidence in case of a damage claim. Without them, “before vs. after” comparison is your word vs. the driver’s.

6. Check Fluids and Tire Pressure

Your car will be loaded, driven on/off the truck, and possibly moved short distances at terminals. Make sure:

• No major fluid leaks (oil, coolant, brake)
• Tires inflated to recommended PSI
• Battery has enough charge to start (carriers won’t jump-start)
• Brakes function

Non-running cars can still ship — but tell the carrier when booking so they dispatch a winch-equipped truck (adds $100-$200).

7. Walk Through with the Driver at Pickup

When the driver arrives:

1. Walk around the car together — point out any pre-existing damage
2. Watch the driver complete the BOL inspection notes
3. Sign the BOL only after confirming the inspection notes match reality
4. Keep your copy of the signed BOL — this is the foundation of any future damage claim

What NOT to Do Before Shipping

• Don’t lock the vehicle. Drivers need access to release the parking brake and steer if needed.
• Don’t add custom modifications immediately before pickup. If your roof rack is too tall for the lower deck, you’ll be charged for a top-load.
• Don’t fill the tank. See step 3 — adds weight and may incur surcharges.
• Don’t leave the spare key with the car. Hand the spare to the driver only if needed for delivery to a third party. Otherwise, keep your only key safe.

What to Do at Delivery

1. Inspect the car BEFORE signing the delivery BOL. Compare to your pre-shipment photos.
2. Note any new damage on the BOL before signing — this is critical for insurance claims.
3. Pay the carrier (cash, certified check, or company app — confirmed at booking).
4. Take new photos of the delivered vehicle.

FAQs: Preparing for Auto Transport

Can I leave personal items in the car?

Yes, up to 100 lbs in the trunk or below the window line. Pack in soft bags. Personal items are NOT insured — only the vehicle is. Don’t ship anything you can’t afford to lose.

What if my car doesn’t run?

Non-running cars ship just fine but require a winch-equipped truck. Tell us when booking so we dispatch the right carrier. Adds $100-$200 to standard pricing.

Should I unhook the battery?

No — leave the battery connected so the driver can start the car for loading/unloading. Just disable the alarm.

Can I leave my license plates on?

Yes. Plates stay on during transit. Remove only if you’re transferring registration before the car arrives.

Ready to book? Get a quote or call (279) 300-3808 — and use this checklist the day before pickup.