Moving your car across cities, or even across the country, can feel a bit nerve-wracking, right? But don’t worry. With a little preparation and the right team by your side (like us at Interem Relocations), automobile moving can be simple and stress-free.
Whether you’ve relocated before or this is your first time transporting a car across the country, this guide will help you understand how to get your vehicle ready, what to expect, and how to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Start with the Basics: What Kind of Car Transport Do You Need?
Before diving into packing or prepping, let’s get clear on the type of service you need. There are a couple of common options when it comes to automobile relocation services:
- Door-to-door car transport: The car is picked up and delivered right to your home or office. Super convenient.
- Terminal-to-terminal car shipping: You drop off and pick up the car from designated locations. This can be a more budget-friendly option.
Also, you might come across the terms auto transport broker vs carrier. Here’s what they mean:
- Broker: Think of them as matchmakers; they connect you with carriers.
- Carrier: These are the actual folks transporting your car.
At Interem, we simplify this choice by offering trusted partnerships and transparent services so you always know who’s handling your car.
Don’t Skip This: Verify Your Car’s VIN Number
Here’s a detail that’s often overlooked but essential: VIN verification.
Make sure the Vehicle Identification Number on your documents matches the one on your car. It might seem minor, but this step can help avoid identity mix-ups or issues at delivery. Keep this info handy along with:
- Your car’s registration and insurance
- A valid ID (just in case)
- Any existing lien-holder documents, if applicable
Give Your Car a Good Clean, Inside and Out
You might wonder why cleaning matters when your car’s just going on a truck. But a clean car helps with the vehicle condition report and makes it easier to spot any scratches or dents that may occur during transport.
Here’s your mini car shipping checklist:
- Wash and vacuum your car
- Remove all personal items
- Take out toll tags or parking passes
- Disable alarms and anti-theft systems
- Snap a few pictures of the car from all angles
This protects you and helps streamline the car transport process from start to finish.
Perform a Quick but Thorough Vehicle Check
Before you hand over the keys, give your car a mini health check. Use this vehicle inspection checklist to make sure everything’s in working order:
- Check for fluid leaks
- Top up coolant and oil if needed
- Inflate tires properly
- Make sure the battery is fully charged
- Keep about a quarter tank of fuel, no need to fill it up
Our team at Interem will also do a formal inspection and document the vehicle’s condition before shipping. It’s all part of our commitment to safe, professional auto relocation services.
Don’t Let These Common Car Shipping Mistakes Catch You Off Guard
Now that you’ve started prepping your vehicle, let’s quickly talk about what not to do. You’d be surprised how often people overlook small details that can cause big headaches later.
Here are a few common car shipping mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping VIN verification: A mismatched VIN can delay delivery or even cause legal issues.
- Leaving personal belongings in the car: This is not just a safety risk, most carriers won’t cover any items left inside.
- Forgetting to document pre-existing damage: Without proper photos and a signed condition report, you may struggle to claim damage if something goes wrong.
- Overfilling the fuel tank: It adds unnecessary weight and increases safety risks.
- Failing to ask about insurance: Don’t assume you’re covered, always ask your carrier or broker about the insurance terms.
Avoiding these simple mistakes will help you enjoy a smooth, worry-free transport experience.
Know What to Expect During the Journey
Once your car is loaded, it begins its journey to your new destination. If you’ve chosen door-to-door car transport, just relax and wait for it to arrive. If it’s terminal-to-terminal car shipping, make a plan to pick it up at the destination.
A few auto transport tips to keep in mind:
- Stay in touch with your service provider for updates
- If possible, track the vehicle
- Be available (or assign someone you trust) at delivery
- Inspect the vehicle immediately when it arrives
We recommend comparing the arrival condition with the photos you took earlier and reviewing the signed vehicle condition report.
After Delivery: Final Check and Peace of Mind
Your car’s arrived. Now what? Here’s a quick post-transport checklist:
- Do a slow walk around your car to check for dents or scratches
- Compare it with pre-shipping photos
- Flag any damage right away
- Take it for a short drive to ensure everything’s working fine
Whether you’re figuring out how to ship a car cross-country or planning a local move, these simple steps can save you a lot of headaches.
Why Choose Interem for Your Car Move?
At Interem Relocations, we know your vehicle is more than just a machine; it’s part of your daily life, your memories, and your journey. That’s why we provide secure, reliable, and transparent automobile moving services that you can trust.
From helping you decide between an auto transport broker vs a carrier to providing full inspection support and regular updates, we’re here to make your move seamless.
So, when you’re ready to move your car with confidence, get in touch with us. Let’s get those wheels rolling safely to your next destination!