Preparing a Car for Transport: A Practical Checklist
Preparing the car in advance helps avoid loading delays and uncertainty at handover. Complete the checks before the carrier arrives rather than during collection.
Preparing the car in advance helps avoid loading delays and uncertainty at handover. Complete the checks before the carrier arrives rather than during collection.
Use this checklist for the vehicle itself, then confirm international documents and border requirements separately with the planner.
1. Confirm the car and booking details
Provide the exact make, model, year, running condition and actual dimensions before calculation. Mention low clearance, modified bodywork, wide wheels and steering or brake faults.
Agree addresses, dates, release and receipt contacts, carrier type, insurance and updates in transit. If a dealer or third party releases the car, confirm who can hand over keys and complete the documents.
- Make, model, VIN and registration number where applicable.
- Dimensions, clearance and bodywork changes.
- Whether it runs or needs loading equipment.
- Keys, documents and the release contact.
2. Remove unsecured belongings
Remove documents, money, electronics, detachable accessories and valuables. Do not leave items loose in the cabin or boot where movement could damage trim.
Agree any spare wheels, parts or accessories before loading so the carrier can plan their space and securing. List agreed accompanying items in the handover record.
More about the service: Enclosed car transport.
3. Check running condition
Unless otherwise arranged, the car should start, steer and brake reliably. Check tyre pressure, active leaks and battery charge. For an electric car, discuss the required charge and charging-port access.
A full tank is usually unnecessary for loading. Agree the appropriate fuel level with the carrier, particularly if the recipient needs to drive after unloading.
4. Photograph condition before collection
Clean bodywork is easier to inspect. Photograph all four sides in good light, then wheels, glass, roof, interior and existing marks. Identify the handover place and time in the record.
During joint inspection, record visible chips, scratches and other observations in the report. Photographs supplement the written record and give both parties the same starting reference.
5. Prepare access and keys
Agree how to disable non-standard shock or tilt alarms and explain immobiliser operation. Fold mirrors after inspection where needed, remove detachable aerials and close windows, roof, bonnet and boot.
Provide a working key. An additional set can remain with the owner or destination representative. Remove personal access tags and toll transponders that are not needed for handling.
6. Inspect after delivery
Receive the car in sufficient light and allow time before completing the report. Compare bodywork, rims, glass, interior, keys and agreed accessories with the collection record.
Record any question before handover is completed and take photographs promptly. Accurate records help participants establish the sequence of events and agree follow-up.
Plan your car transport
Send the model, running condition, exact addresses and date. Mention modifications or faults before the carrier is selected.
Contact usFrequently asked questions
Should the car be washed before transport?
Preferably: a clean body makes existing chips and scratches easier to record.
Can belongings remain in the boot?
Only after agreement. Remove valuables and loose items and list approved accompanying cargo.
What if the car does not run?
Tell the planner before calculation so the required loading equipment can be selected.