How to Prepare Your Classic Car for Shipping: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Car transportation services are often used when buying a vehicle from another state or country, or when sending a car to a family member across the country. While the transport company is responsible for pickup and delivery, it’s your responsibility to prepare the vehicle properly.

Proper preparation:

• Prevents delays
• Minimizes the risk of damage
• Gives you peace of mind throughout the process

Many first-time shippers don’t realize how critical these steps are. From checking fluid levels to removing personal items, every action counts.

Understanding Your Shipping Options

Open vs. Enclosed Transport

• Open Transport: Budget-friendly and commonly used. Your car is exposed to weather and road debris. Best for daily-use vehicles.
• Enclosed Transport: Offers complete protection in a covered trailer. Ideal for classic, luxury, or custom-painted cars.

Door-to-Door vs. Terminal-to-Terminal

• Door-to-Door: Carrier picks up and delivers to your location. Very convenient.
• Terminal-to-Terminal: Drop off/pick up at set locations. Slightly cheaper, but less convenient.

Choosing the right option helps set expectations and ensures proper preparation.

 

Pre-Shipping Vehicle Checklist

1. Clean Your Car (Inside and Out)

Wash the vehicle thoroughly and take high-resolution photos from all angles. Document existing scratches or dents.

2. Remove Personal Items

Remove GPS devices, chargers, documents, and valuables. These are not covered by cargo insurance and may incur extra shipping fees.

3. Perform a Basic Maintenance Check

Ensure no fluid leaks. Check tire pressure and battery charge. Notify the carrier if the car is inoperable.

4. Reduce Fuel Level

Keep the tank around 1/4 full to reduce transport weight and avoid overloading.

5. Disable Alarms and Toll Tags

Turn off alarms to avoid interruptions. Remove or deactivate toll tags to prevent accidental charges.

6. Secure or Remove Loose Parts

Fold in mirrors, remove spoilers, antennas, or roof racks. These can be lost or cause damage during loading/unloading.

7. Check Tire Pressure

Proper inflation helps with safe loading and avoids transport-related issues.

8. Get a Copy of the Bill of Lading

This document confirms the condition of the vehicle before shipment and is essential for filing a damage claim.

Legal and Insurance Considerations

Review your own insurance policy — many do not cover transit. Ask the transport company for their Certificate of Insurance and verify the coverage.

Never sign the bill of lading without reviewing the condition report at pickup and delivery.

Timing and Logistics

• Book your shipment 1–2 weeks in advance (earlier during peak seasons).
• Transit can take 2–10 days depending on distance and route.
• Carriers usually give a pickup window, not an exact time.
• Provide alternate contact info in case you’re unavailable at delivery.

What to Do on Pickup and Delivery

At Pickup:

• Inspect the car with the driver
• Complete the bill of lading
• Take timestamped photos
• Keep a signed copy

At Delivery:

• Repeat the inspection
• Note and photograph any new damage
• Report issues before signing
• Ensure the receiver knows how to inspect and report problems

Conclusion

Preparing your vehicle for shipping doesn’t have to be complicated. By cleaning, inspecting, securing loose items, confirming insurance, and understanding the process, you ensure a safe, worry-free experience.

Whether you're shipping across a state or across the country, taking the time to do it right protects your investment and provides peace of mind.

Need Help Shipping Your Vehicle?

US Star Trucking is your trusted partner for safe, professional auto transport.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your shipment!