Whether you are taking your beloved classic car on a cruise or shipping it overseas, proper transport is crucial to ensure your vehicle arrives at its destination in the same condition it left. This guide provides tips to help you safely transport your classic car by road to the shipping port Transporting Your Classic Car.
Preparing Your Classic Car for Transport
Before arranging for your classic car to be transported, it is important to properly prepare it Transporting Your Classic Car. Some key steps include:
- Draining all fluids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid and power steering fluid to prevent leaks during transport.
- Removing or properly securing any loose articles in the car like floor mats, tools, loose change that could shuffle around during transport.
- Inflating tires to the proper pressure indicated on the sidewall and installing wheel locks/lugs to prevent loss or damage during transport.
- Wrapping any sharp edges or protruding parts on the vehicle’s exterior that could snag or scratch during transport.
- Ensuring the battery is charged and connected to a battery tender or trickle charger to maintain the charge during transit.
Choosing a Transport Company
When choosing a transport company to deliver your classic car to the port, consider the following:
| Factor | Details |
| Insurance Coverage | Ensure the company has adequate insurance in case of an accident while in transit. |
| Driver Experience | Choose a company whose drivers have ample experience transporting vehicles, especially classic cars. |
| Equipment | The transport truck should have all the necessary equipment like ramps and straps to securely haul your vehicle. |
| Reputation | Check reviews online and ask other classic car owners for referrals to quality transport companies. |
Loading and Securing Your Classic Car
When your chosen transport company arrives to pick up your classic car, ensure it is properly loaded and secured onto the transport truck as follows:
- The transport driver should inspect your vehicle beforehand to identify any issues.
- Ramps are used to drive your classic car onto the transport truck flatbed rather than lifting to prevent door/body damage.
- Industrial strength straps are fastened tightly across doors, hood, chassis and tires to securely hold the vehicle in place during transit.
- Additional padding or shields may be installed to protect vulnerable parts like mirrors and lights from debris kick-up on the highway.
- You can choose to transport with other vehicles for added security or alone if it needs extra care and protection from contact with others.
Insuring a Smooth Delivery to the Port
Once your classic car is loaded for transport, make sure to:
- Receive a copy of the transport contract detailing the vehicle and any pre-existing damage for insurance purposes.
- Discuss the estimated time of delivery with driver and receive contact details for any updates during transit.
- Consider following the transport truck part-way to the port if very concerned about vehicle condition or security of delivery.
- Inspect vehicle condition upon arrival at the port and note any new damage before signing acceptance from transport company.
- File a claim right away with the transport company’s insurance for any damage attributed to transit to seek reimbursement.
By following these important guidelines, you can help ensure your beloved classic car enjoys a smooth and safe transport to await its ocean voyage or return home in the same exemplary condition it left in. Proper preparation and choosing a reputable company are key steps for tranquility of mind during delivery.
