Shipping your vehicle with Florida Auto Shipping (FAS) can be a seamless experience when you know how to properly prepare your vehicle for the journey. Whether you’re moving across state lines or transporting a vehicle internationally, taking a few key steps before shipping will help ensure that your car arrives safely and in the same condition it was when you handed it over. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing your vehicle for auto shipping.
Table of Contents
- Why Vehicle Preparation Is Important
- Steps to Prepare Your Vehicle for Auto Shipping
- Clean Your Vehicle
- Document Vehicle Condition
- Remove Personal Belongings
- Check Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure
- Disable Toll Tags and Alarms
- Remove Custom Accessories
- Ensure Proper Battery Charge
- Fuel Level Requirements
- What to Do Before Auto Shipping Pickup
- Plan for the Pickup Day
- Gather Necessary Documents
- After Auto Shipping: Vehicle Arrival Checklist
- Special Considerations for Different Vehicle Types
- Classic Cars
- Luxury Vehicles
- Motorcycles
- International Vehicle Shipping Preparation
- How FAS Auto Shipping Can Help You
- FAQs about Auto Shipping
- Contact FAS Auto Shipping
1. Why Vehicle Preparation Is Important
When preparing your vehicle for auto shipping, proper preparation is essential for several reasons. First, it ensures that your vehicle is transported safely, minimizing the risk of damage. Second, many auto shipping companies, including Florida Auto Shipping (FAS), have guidelines that must be followed to ensure the safety and efficiency of the shipping process. Lastly, following these steps will make the process smoother for both you and the shipping company, reducing the chance of delays and complications.
2. Steps to Prepare Your Vehicle for Auto Shipping
Clean Your Vehicle
Before shipping your vehicle, give it a thorough cleaning. While this may seem like a minor step, it’s crucial for being able to inspect the vehicle accurately before it’s shipped. Dirt and grime can hide scratches, dents, and dings, which you’ll want to document prior to shipment. A clean vehicle allows for a better pre-shipping inspection, ensuring any existing damage is noted and preventing disputes later.
Document Vehicle Condition
After cleaning the car, take detailed photos of the vehicle from all angles. Capture images of the exterior, including close-ups of any existing dents, scratches, or cosmetic damage. Make sure to photograph the interior as well. These photos will serve as a record of the vehicle’s condition before shipping and can be compared to its condition upon delivery. Florida Auto Shipping (FAS) also recommends creating a written record, noting any pre-existing damage.
Remove Personal Belongings
Auto shipping companies are generally not liable for personal items left in the vehicle. To avoid loss or damage, remove all personal belongings, including electronics, documents, and any other valuable items. Additionally, having a clutter-free vehicle reduces the risk of items shifting around during transit, which could potentially cause damage to the interior.
Check Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure
Ensure that all your vehicle’s fluids (oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, etc.) are at the appropriate levels. This is particularly important if your vehicle will be driven on and off the transport truck. Low or excessive fluid levels can result in mechanical issues during shipping.
Make sure your tires are properly inflated as well. Underinflated or overinflated tires can increase the risk of damage during loading and unloading.
Disable Toll Tags and Alarms
Before shipping your vehicle, disable any toll tags, such as EZ-Pass or SunPass, to avoid unnecessary toll charges during transport. If the vehicle’s alarm system is active, be sure to deactivate it or provide the shipping company with instructions on how to turn it off, should it be triggered during transit.
Remove Custom Accessories
If your vehicle has custom accessories, such as spoilers, roof racks, or bike racks, it’s best to remove them before shipping. These items could potentially get damaged during transit or cause damage to the vehicle itself. By removing custom parts, you lower the risk of damage and make it easier for the shipping company to load and transport the vehicle.
Ensure Proper Battery Charge
Make sure your car battery is fully charged before shipping. If the vehicle is being shipped via an open carrier, the shipping company may need to start the car to move it on and off the truck. A fully charged battery ensures a smoother process and prevents delays.
Fuel Level Requirements
For safety reasons, most auto shipping companies, including FAS Auto Shipping, require that vehicles be shipped with a minimal amount of fuel in the tank, usually no more than a quarter tank. A lower fuel level reduces the weight of the vehicle and decreases the risk of fire during transport.
3. What to Do Before Auto Shipping Pickup
Plan for the Pickup Day
On the day your vehicle is scheduled for pickup, make sure that you or an authorized representative is present to meet the driver. The vehicle will undergo an inspection before being loaded onto the transport truck, and you’ll need to sign off on the condition report.
Ensure that the vehicle is easily accessible for the transport truck and remove any obstructions that could make loading difficult.
Gather Necessary Documents
Prepare all required documents ahead of time to avoid delays. These may include:
- Vehicle registration and proof of ownership
- Insurance documents
- Identification
- Any customs paperwork for international shipments
Florida Auto Shipping (FAS) will let you know what specific documents you’ll need based on your shipping destination and the type of vehicle being shipped.
4. After Auto Shipping: Vehicle Arrival Checklist
Once your vehicle arrives at its destination, it’s important to inspect it immediately. Use the photos and documentation you created before shipping to compare the vehicle’s condition upon arrival. If there are any new scratches, dents, or other damage, take photos and document them thoroughly.
Should you notice any issues, report them to the shipping company immediately. Florida Auto Shipping (FAS) has a customer service team ready to assist with any concerns.
5. Special Considerations for Different Vehicle Types
Classic Cars
Shipping a classic car requires extra care, as these vehicles are often highly valuable. Consider choosing enclosed auto shipping to protect your vehicle from the elements during transit. It’s also a good idea to insure the car for its full value and provide detailed documentation of its condition.
Luxury Vehicles
For luxury vehicles, taking additional precautions, such as using covered transport or requesting a top-load position (where the car is placed on the upper deck of the transport truck), will further protect your vehicle. Florida Auto Shipping (FAS) can accommodate such requests to ensure the safe transport of your luxury car.
Motorcycles
Motorcycles require different handling compared to cars. Before shipping, ensure that the motorcycle is clean, has minimal fuel in the tank, and all loose parts, such as saddlebags or custom parts, are removed or securely fastened. Florida Auto Shipping (FAS) offers specialized motorcycle shipping services for safe and efficient transport.
6. International Vehicle Shipping Preparation
Shipping your vehicle internationally involves additional steps and paperwork. Make sure to gather all necessary customs documents and confirm any country-specific requirements with Florida Auto Shipping (FAS). International auto shipping may require additional inspections and documentation, such as export licenses or emissions certifications, depending on your destination.
Additionally, some countries have specific regulations regarding fuel levels and the cleanliness of the vehicle’s exterior, especially when it comes to dirt and contaminants that could be brought into the country.
7. How FAS Auto Shipping Can Help You
Florida Auto Shipping (FAS) offers a wide range of services to meet your auto transport needs. Whether you’re shipping a family car, luxury vehicle, or motorcycle, our team ensures a hassle-free process from start to finish. With years of experience and a network of reliable carriers, we make sure your vehicle arrives safely and on time.
At FAS Auto Shipping, we also offer:
- Door-to-door service: Convenient pickup and delivery at your desired locations.
- Enclosed auto shipping: Protect your vehicle from weather and road debris during transport.
- Tracking services: Stay updated on your vehicle’s location throughout the shipping process.
- Comprehensive insurance coverage: Rest easy knowing your vehicle is protected in the unlikely event of damage.
With our transparent pricing and customer-first approach, you can be confident in choosing Florida Auto Shipping for your auto transport needs.
8. FAQs about Auto Shipping
How much does it cost to ship a car?
The cost of auto shipping depends on several factors, including the distance of the shipment, the type of vehicle, and whether you choose open or enclosed transport. Contact FAS Auto Shipping at 888-404-4084 for a free quote.
How long does auto shipping take?
Shipping times vary depending on the distance and specific route. Typically, cross-country shipping can take between 7-10 days, while shorter distances may take 2-5 days.
Is my vehicle insured during shipping?
Yes, all shipments through Florida Auto Shipping are insured. You can also choose additional coverage depending on your needs.
Can I ship personal items in my car?
It’s recommended to remove all personal belongings from the vehicle before shipping, as most shipping companies, including FAS, are not responsible for personal items left inside the car.
What’s the difference between open and enclosed transport?
Open transport is the most common and cost-effective option, where vehicles are loaded onto an open carrier. Enclosed transport offers additional protection from the elements, making it ideal for luxury or classic cars.