Preparing Your Classic Car for Transport: Tips for Safe Shipping
For classic car enthusiasts, owning a vintage vehicle is a cherished experience. However, transporting these beloved machines can be a nerve-wracking endeavor. To preserve their value and ensure their safety, it’s crucial to take certain precautions before entrusting them to a car shipper. Our team at Focus Car Transporters understands the unique needs of classic cars and offers personalized, trustworthy services to give you peace of mind. Here’s a practical guide to preparing your classic car for safe shipping.
Choose the Right Type of Transport
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is choosing between open or enclosed transport. While open transport might be more affordable, enclosed transport offers the protection your classic car deserves, shielding it from weather elements and road debris. At Focus, we offer competitive enclosed transport rates that are close to open pricing, making it easier for you to opt for a safer option for your valuable vehicle.
Inspect and Document Your Car’s Condition
Before shipping, conduct a thorough inspection of your vehicle and document its current condition. Take high-resolution photos from multiple angles and note any existing scratches, dents, or blemishes. This documentation will be invaluable for insurance purposes, as it establishes the condition of your car prior to transport.
Clean Your Car Thoroughly
Though it may seem counterintuitive, cleaning your car is an essential part of preparation. It makes it easier to perform a detailed inspection and reveals any pre-existing issues that may need to be noted. Moreover, once your car arrives at its destination, you’ll appreciate having a clean vehicle to admire. Plus, at Focus, we offer a free car wash reimbursement so your classic can shine once it’s reached its new home.
Secure Loose Parts and Accessories
Ensure that anything that could become loose during transit is secured. This includes antennae, removable parts, and convertible tops. It’s best to remove any accessories like custom mirrors or spoilers, pack them separately, and transport them in the vehicle’s interior or separately if needed.
Check Fluid Levels and Tire Pressure
Check and top off all essential fluids, including oil, brake fluid, and antifreeze. However, ensure fuel levels are low—about a quarter tank to reduce weight. Also, make sure the tires are inflated to the correct pressure to prevent flat spots and ensure smooth loading and unloading.
Disable the Alarm System
A fully functioning alarm system is advantageous in day-to-day scenarios, but it could cause unnecessary disturbances during transport. Disable the alarm system to prevent it from activating and causing complications along the journey.
Consult with Your Transport Company
Communication is key when shipping something as valuable as a classic car. At Focus, we personally manage every shipment via text and provide regular updates to keep you informed every step of the way. Discuss any specific requests or concerns with the transport company beforehand to tailor the service to your needs.
Utilize Personal Items Wisely
While it might be tempting to fill your car with personal items for convenience, it’s advisable to keep these to a minimum. Extra weight can complicate the shipping process, and some companies have regulations against transporting personal items. Check with your transporter for their policy on this matter.
Why Choose Focus Car Transporters?
At Focus Car Transporters, we aim to go beyond simply transporting your vehicle. With a strong Reddit reputation boasting over 100 organic reviews, our team provides a blend of reliability, price transparency, and extra touches like Uber reimbursement to set us apart. When you choose our services, you work with a small business that feels more like a friend than a faceless corporation.
The shipment process includes just 35% due at pickup with the remainder on delivery and no hidden fees, ensuring that you have full transparency throughout. With over 20 years of collective team experience, we combine our expertise with the personal dedication required to handle classic cars with the care they deserve.
Shipping a classic car doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these steps and choosing a transport company you can trust, you’re ensuring your valuable vintage vehicle arrives safely at its destination. For more information and personalized service, contact Focus Car Transporters. We’re here to help make your classic car transport experience as smooth and worry-free as possible.