How to Prepare Your Luxury Car for Shipping

Shipping a luxury car is no ordinary task. Whether you’re moving your vehicle across the country or shipping it internationally, proper preparation is essential to ensure its safety and pristine condition during transit. At BBB Auto, we specialize in providing white-glove service for high-value vehicles, and we’ve put together this guide to help you prepare your car for a smooth shipping experience.

1. Clean Your Vehicle Thoroughly

Before handing over your car to the shipping company, give it a thorough wash. A clean car makes it easier to spot any existing scratches, dents, or imperfections, which is essential for documenting the car’s condition before shipping.

• Tip: Take clear, timestamped photos of your car from multiple angles to serve as a record.

2. Remove Personal Belongings

While it may be tempting to leave items in your car, it’s best to remove all personal belongings. Shipping companies are not responsible for items left inside the vehicle, and loose items can shift during transit, potentially causing damage.

What to Remove:

• Electronics like GPS devices.
• Loose change and documents.
• Aftermarket accessories that aren’t securely attached.

3. Check for Leaks and Maintenance Issues

Inspect your car for any fluid leaks. Shipping companies may refuse to transport vehicles with active leaks to prevent damage to other cars during transit. Additionally, ensure that your car is in good working condition.

Checklist:

• Top off all essential fluids (oil, coolant, etc.).
• Ensure the battery is fully charged.
• Check the tire pressure.

4. Reduce Fuel to a Quarter Tank

It’s recommended to leave only about a quarter tank of fuel in your vehicle before shipping. This reduces the weight of the car and minimizes the risk of leaks. Don’t worry—this is enough fuel for loading, unloading, and a short drive at the destination.

5. Disable Alarms and Trackers

Car alarms can be triggered during transit, causing unnecessary disruptions. Be sure to disable them before shipping. If your car has a tracking system or other security features, inform the shipping company to avoid complications.

6. Secure or Remove Loose Parts

Check for any loose parts or accessories on the exterior of your car, such as:

• Spoilers
• Antennas
• Roof racks

Secure or remove them to prevent damage during transport.

7. Verify Insurance Coverage

While reputable car shipping companies like BBB Auto provide insurance coverage, it’s a good idea to double-check the specifics. Review your own car insurance policy to see if it covers shipping-related risks.

• Tip: Request a copy of the shipping company’s insurance certificate for peace of mind.

8. Prepare Documentation

Make sure you have all the necessary paperwork in order. This includes:

• Vehicle registration.
• Bill of sale (if applicable).
• Identification and contact information.

Additionally, you may need to sign a bill of lading, which serves as a receipt and a record of the car’s condition before and after shipping.

9. Communicate Special Instructions

If your car has unique features or requires special handling, let the shipping company know in advance. For example:

• Custom modifications.
• Non-standard dimensions or weight.
• Specific loading/unloading instructions.

10. Work with a Trusted Shipping Company

The most important step in preparing your luxury car for shipping is choosing the right transport partner. At BBB Auto, we specialize in enclosed transport services that provide the ultimate protection for your exotic or classic vehicle.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your luxury car is well-prepared for a safe and stress-free shipping experience. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us today for expert guidance and personalized service.

Ready to Ship? Request a free quote from BBB Auto and let us handle your prized possession with the care it deserves.