Moving long distance can feel like juggling a dozen tasks at once. Between packing up your home, coordinating with movers, and making travel plans, it’s easy to overlook one critical detail: preparing your car for transportation. Whether you’re hiring a professional auto transport service or planning to drive the vehicle yourself, giving your car the attention it needs before the journey will save you time, money, and stress.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure your vehicle is ready for the road—or the carrier—when moving across the country.
Understanding the Importance of Preparation
Your car isn’t just another item on the moving checklist. It’s a valuable asset and, in many cases, a daily necessity. Preparing it properly ensures that it arrives at your new destination safely and in good condition. Transportation companies expect vehicles to meet certain standards, and failing to prepare could result in delays, extra fees, or even damage that could have been avoided. Taking time to prepare also gives you peace of mind, knowing that one major responsibility is well-handled during the moving chaos.
Preparing Your Car for Transportation: Deciding Between Driving and Shipping
One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to drive your car yourself or ship it. If you’re moving within a reasonable distance, driving can be practical. However, when relocation takes you hundreds or thousands of miles away, shipping is often the smarter choice. Professional transport saves you from adding mileage and wear to your car, while also freeing you from long hours behind the wheel. Understanding the pros and cons of each option will help you make the best choice for your budget, time, and comfort level.
Storing Items Safely Before the Move
As you prepare your car, you’ll also be sorting through belongings in your home. While organizing, you might find items you no longer want or need. In that case, remember that a garage sale can make it easier to declutter and reduce the number of possessions you’ll bring with you. Fewer items mean less packing stress, and you’ll even earn a little extra cash to offset moving expenses.
Choosing the Right Transport Company
If you decide to ship your vehicle, selecting the right transport company is crucial. Look for companies with strong reputations, good customer reviews, and proper licensing through the Department of Transportation. Request multiple quotes to compare pricing, but don’t automatically go with the lowest option. Reliability, insurance coverage, and quality service are just as important as cost. Doing thorough research now can prevent major headaches later.
Cleaning and Inspecting Your Car
Before handing your vehicle over to a transport company, make sure it’s thoroughly cleaned inside and out. A clean car makes it easier to identify and document any existing scratches, dents, or damage during the inspection process. Take photos of your car from multiple angles as an added layer of protection. This step ensures you have a clear record in case you need to file a damage claim upon delivery. Additionally, remove personal belongings, as most transport services do not allow items inside the vehicle during transit.
Performing Routine Maintenance
A long-distance move is the perfect time to make sure your car is in good working condition. Check fluid levels, tire pressure, and the battery’s charge before shipping or driving. If your car has any known issues, consider repairing them in advance to avoid complications during transport or shortly after arriving at your new location. Simple maintenance like topping off oil, checking the coolant, and ensuring the brakes are in good condition will help your car handle the transition smoothly.
Reducing Fuel and Disconnecting Accessories
Transport companies often recommend leaving no more than a quarter tank of gas in your vehicle. Less fuel means less weight, which makes it easier and safer to move the car. You should also remove or disconnect any external accessories, such as bike racks, roof boxes, or spoilers, to avoid damage during shipping. The fewer loose items in your car, the lower the risk of problems during transit.
Coordinating Pickup and Delivery Logistics
Communication with your transport company is key. Make sure you understand the pickup and delivery schedule, as well as the locations where the vehicle will be loaded and unloaded. Some companies provide door-to-door service, while others use centralized terminals. Being available for inspection at both ends of the journey ensures you can confirm the vehicle’s condition before and after transport. Flexibility with timing is often necessary, as transport schedules may shift due to weather, traffic, or other delays.
Preparing for Delays and Insurance Considerations
Even with the best preparation, unforeseen delays can happen. Weather, road closures, or logistical issues sometimes impact shipping timelines. Understanding the possibility of delays ahead of time helps set realistic expectations. Review your transport company’s insurance coverage carefully, and confirm what damages are included. If needed, speak with your personal auto insurance provider to see if additional coverage is recommended.
Preparing for Driving the Car Yourself
If you decide to drive instead of shipping your car, preparation is still essential. Map out your route in advance, considering fuel stops, rest breaks, and overnight accommodations if the trip spans multiple days. Carry an emergency kit with essentials such as jumper cables, a first-aid kit, bottled water, and basic tools. Ensuring your tires are in good condition and your fluids are topped off will reduce the risk of breakdowns. Driving long distances can be exhausting, so plan to rotate drivers if possible or give yourself plenty of time to travel safely.
Adjusting for Regional Conditions
Your car may face different conditions depending on where you’re moving. If you’re relocating from a warm climate to a colder one, you may need to prepare your vehicle for winter weather. This could include adding antifreeze, switching to winter tires, or checking the heating system. On the other hand, if moving to a hot climate, ensure your air conditioning works properly and your cooling system is in top shape. Adapting your car to regional conditions helps ensure a smoother transition when you arrive at your new destination.
Final Check Before the Move
In the final days before your move, double-check everything you’ve prepared. Confirm pickup or departure times, make sure your documentation is organized, and keep a copy of the transport contract handy. If you’re driving, ensure you have all necessary documents such as your license, registration, and proof of insurance readily available. A final walk-around inspection of the vehicle ensures that nothing has been overlooked.
A Task That Pays Off
Preparing your car for transportation during a long distance move may seem like just another task on a very long list, but it’s one that pays off. Taking the time to clean, inspect, and maintain your vehicle ensures that it arrives at your new home safely, whether shipped on a carrier or driven across state lines. Choosing the right transport company, understanding insurance, and planning ahead reduces stress and avoids unexpected problems. Even small steps, like lightening the load with a garage sale, contribute to a smoother process. By preparing your car thoughtfully, you’re setting yourself up for a successful move and a confident start in your new location.