While shipping a car is typically safe, there are steps you can take for minimizing the risk of damage while your vehicle is en route. These tips will help you protect your investment if you’re shipping a regular vehicle, a luxury vehicle, or a classic car. While the auto transport carrier has procedures to address this, you can prevent scratches, dings, leaks and other mechanical issues from even starting.
At CarShippingSource.com, we believe an expert guide, vetted carriers and transparent process to help ensure that your vehicle makes it safely to its destination without damage. Below is the complete guide to preparing your vehicle for shipping, and avoiding potential problems.
Why Vehicles Sometimes Experience Transport Damage
Though most vehicles are shipped without issue, understanding the main causes of car shipping damage can help you to avoid them:
Road Debris and Weather Exposure
During open transport, vehicles may be exposed to:
- Dust and dirt
- Small rocks
- Rain, snow, and UV rays
These elements rarely cause major problems, but can leave marks upon the vehicle if the vehicle is not properly prepared.
Improper Securing or Handling
The following problems may occur if the car is not properly secured, loaded, or unloaded:
- Frame stress
- Scratch marks
- Undercarriage impact
This is why it is critical to select an experienced carrier.
Mechanical Issues That Occur Before Shipping
Occasionally, damage may be attributed to transport, but the item may have been damaged during packing:
- Weak batteries
- Leaking fluids
- Low tire pressure
That’s why documentation and inspection can help.
How to Protect Vehicles from Transport Damage: Essential Preparation
To give your vehicle the best chance at delivery in one piece you will need to know how to ready your car to ship before the carrier arrives.
Perform a Thorough Pre-Transport Inspection
Inspect to defend against damage. Hand over keys after this point.
- Wash the exterior so marks are visible
- Photograph the vehicle from every angle
- Document all pre-existing scratches, dents, or imperfections
- Take pictures of the interior and undercarriage if possible
These records safeguard your rights and help validate the condition upon delivery.
Remove All Personal Items
However, the loose contents of the vehicle could move and damage itself or others:
- Scratches on dashboards
- Cracked screens
- Torn upholstery
Transport companies often refuse personal belongings due to weight limits and concerns over liability.
Remove items such as:
- Phone chargers
- Seat accessories
- Tools
- Aftermarket electronics
- Bags or valuables
When empty, the vehicle is easier to control.
Secure or Remove Exterior Accessories
Add-on parts are more fragile during transport and should avoid breakage:
- Fold in mirrors
- Remove roof racks if detachable
- Take off bike racks or spoilers
- Secure loose trim pieces
- Protect delicate chrome or custom parts
These accessories may be damaged by wind and debris and by contact with straps.
Check Tire Pressure, Battery, and Fluids
Carriers can move vehicles multiple times and start them. You must therefore ensure your car is sound.
Checklist:
- Tires inflated to recommended PSI
- Battery fully charged
- No major fluid leaks
- Gas tank about one-quarter full (industry standard)
Maintained mechanical condition prevents the stress from loading and unloading.
Choose the Right Type of Transport
The best way to reduce damage risk is to select a carrier appropriate to the value and vulnerability of the vehicle.
- Open Transport (Most Common & Budget-Friendly)
- Safe for everyday vehicles, offering good protection for the price. To reduce exposure:
- Add a protective wax coating
- Cover any sensitive components
- Request top-load placement when possible
- Enclosed Transport (Recommended for High-Value Vehicles)
Maximum protection from:
- Weather
- Road debris
- Salt and sand
- Dust and pollutants
Well suited to luxury, exotic, and classic cars.
CarShippingSource.com provides options. You can choose what works for you and your budget.
What Transport Companies Do to Protect Your Vehicle
Besides preparing personally, professional carriers follow strict safety protocols.
Use of Soft Straps and Proper Tie-Down Points
The soft nylon straps are less likely to scratch the paint or otherwise damage the body than chains; skilled drivers attach the vehicle at safe points.
Trained Loading and Unloading Techniques
Skilled drivers may know how to avoid damage to vehicles with low clearance, specialty vehicles, or driveways with an acute angle of entry.
Routine Safety Checks During Transport
During an over-the-road trip, carriers may periodically check the vehicle to ensure the straps remain taut.
Insurance Coverage for Added Protection
All legitimate transport companies carry standard liability insurance, and CarShippingSource.com helps customers understand their options for additional coverage.
How to Protect Vehicles from Transport Damage Upon Delivery
Your work is not over once you drop the vehicle off, and a detailed inspection can ensure satisfaction.
Inspect the Vehicle Before Signing
Before finalizing paperwork:
- Compare your car with the pre-shipping photos
- Check bumpers, doors, roof, and underbody
- Inspect interior condition
- Look for fresh scratches, dents, or leaks
Write down the problem before you sign the Bill of Lading if a problem exists.
Report Issues Immediately
Prompt reporting ensures:
- Fast claim processing
- Clear evidence
- Swift resolution
CarShippingSource.com guides you through every step of the process to ease consumer concerns.
Wash the Vehicle After Arrival
When shipped on an open carrier, a light wash removes road dust or salt for inspection.
Why Choose CarShippingSource.com for Safe, Damage-Free Transport?
CarShippingSource.com offers all the necessary resources, tools, and information to help you prepare and protect your vehicle while transporting.
- Experienced and vetted carriers
- Transparent insurance options
- Open and enclosed transport choices
- Clear communication throughout the journey
- Door-to-door convenience when accessible
- Strict safety standards and careful handling
Our aim involves giving a stress-free and fully protected auto transport experience to you.
Preventing Damage Starts with Smart Preparation
To avoid damage during shipping, be sure you know what to do with shipping a car at, before, during, and after.If you prepare a little and hire the right car transport provider, you can ship a car safely and predictably. The task is very low-stress then.
Want to schedule secure, professionally managed vehicle shipping? Visit CarShippingSource.com to find reliable transport services near you.
