Auto Transport
Even if you have located the idea
auto moving company for relocating your car, you still would have to prepare your car for the final shipment. Prior to being picked up for transportation, there are some steps you need to take, so that your car reaches its destination in the same condition as it was when it started its journey. Here are some general tips for preparing your car for shipment:
Every car before getting shipped has to go through a formal inspection, before signing of the Bill of Lading and the inspection will also result in generating a report which will give you an idea of the condition that your car is in. This vehicle condition report is give out both at the start of the journey as well as at the destination point. It is necessary for you or your assigned representative to be present during this inspection, so that you are aware of the condition that your car is in.
It is recommended that you do a thorough servicing of the car prior to it being loaded on a truck. The car, both exterior and the interiors need to be cleaned thoroughly so that you can see for your self, the condition of the exterior paint, the upholstery etc.
Ensure that your car is in a running condition. There are many auto moving companies who refuse to ship an inoperable vehicle, and even if they do, they charge extra.
Make sure that the car does not have any leaky valve, etc. If you detect any leakage, promptly bring it to the notice of the auto shipper, so that he can take necessary steps to correct it. Remember, the shipping is transporting many cars along with your car. So he will be extra careful not to bring any damage to other cars because of the leakage in your vehicle.
Handover a full set of your car keys to the auto mover on the day of shipping.
According to a regulation in 1990 from the Department of Transportation, no auto shipping company can carry personal belongings in the vehicle, during transshipment. This is considered a legal offence for which they may be taken to task. So, on your part, clear your car of all personal belongings which you might have left inside. Moreover, in case of any damage or loss of such personal things, you can not hold the auto move liable. Even if you are compelled to shift some personal goods in the car, keep it in such a hidden place that it can go unseen. Also pack it in such a way that the items do not shift around while in transit.
Though you may keep the spare tire and the jack, remove all car covers, antennas, roof racks and spare covers from inside the vehicle.
Never put any items which are inflammable or hazardous in the car during transit.
Keep your gas tank less than half its capacity before it starts the journey.
In case you are moving to an area which has a different climate zone, you may like to prepare your car prior to shipping. Adding coolants or other fluids or even your air conditioning and heating systems serviced are good ideas.
Disable all alarm systems before your car is loaded. You do not wish the alarm system to go off while it is traveling. If it does, the auto shipper might damage your car trying to stop it. Even the battery may run out if you keep the alarm system activated during transit.
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