How To Plan Your Move And Ship Your Car

Moving can often require that you have your car shipped separately from your travels. There are steps to take that will prepare your car for that shipment. Preparation for this form of shipment is much more involved than arranging for a pickup by the shipping company and forgetting any other details. These are tips to make sure your car shipping experience is successful and your car arrives intact at your new home.

1. Vehicle Documents Placed Together

When using a car shipping service, they will need proof the vehicle belongs to you. To prevent any last-minute glove box checks or other delays, have proof of ownership ready to show. This will include:

• Proof you have insurance on the vehicle

• The vehicle registration information

• Bill of sale or other proof the vehicle belongs to you

• The original title for the vehicle

• Your driver's license or passport

2. Clean the Vehicle Outside and Inside

It may sound like it doesn't make sense to wash your vehicle before taking it to the car shipping service, but when your car is clean, you can see if there are any existing scratches or dings before it is shipped. Knowing the condition your vehicle is in before shipping, will help you catch any new damage if it occurs during the shipping.

The interior should also be cleaned by wiping down the surfaces and clearing out the clutter. You will want to start with a fresh clean car when you arrive at your new home.

3. Document Any Existing Damages

Once you've cleaned the vehicle, take a walk around the entire car and document any pre-existing damage before signing over to the car shipping service. Damage through these services is highly unlikely, but documentation never hurts as protection should something occur. Take pictures of the entire vehicle and any pre-existing damages. This information is going to make it easier to fill out a condition report when you get your car back. The documentation will also serve as proof if damages occur but are denied.

4. Do Not Place Personal Items in a Car Being Shipped

Many people are tempted to use their car for storage as space gets limited when you move. You should never place any personal items inside of a vehicle when you are using a car shipping service. Any personal items will not be insured and these companies can be fined if they move personal belongings. Besides not using the car for extra storage, you should also remove personal items that typically are found inside cars, such as:

• Chapsticks

• Sunglasses

• GPS devices

• Insurance information or any identifying paperwork

• Water bottles

If there are any items you cannot remove, be sure and at least store them in your trunk.

5. Perform Necessary Maintenance

If your car does not work, you need to share this information with the shipping company so they are aware it cannot be driven on or off the transporting vehicle. If the car works, you should check it for any mechanical issues or leaks. All fluids should be topped off, and if there are any leaks, they should be repaired before shipping.

6. Empty the Gas Tank

If you fill your car's gas tank before turning it over to the shipping service, it only adds extra weight to your vehicle. The tank should only be a quarter full which should be enough fuel for it to be driven off the shipping vehicle and reach a gas station before running out of fuel.

Where to Learn More About Car Shipping

BCAT Logistics can handle all your shipping needs. We are a nationwide service that can help you relocate a motorcycle or car. Give us a call today and learn how we can quickly and safely ship your car to meet you anywhere in the country.