Shipping your car across the country doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re moving for a new job or sending a classic car to a buyer, a little preparation goes a long way. At AAS LLC USA, we want to ensure your vehicle arrives exactly as it left.
Follow this 5-step pro checklist to get your vehicle transport-ready.
1. Give it a Spa Day (Wash & Inspect)
A clean car isn’t just about looks—it’s about protection.
- Wash the exterior: Dirt can hide small scratches or dings.
- Document everything: Take high-quality photos of all angles (including the roof and bumpers).
- The Paperwork: Having a clean car makes the initial “Bill of Lading” inspection fast and accurate.
2. Clean Out the “Clutter”
Your car is being transported, not used as a moving van.
- Remove Personal Items: Insurance covers the car, not your gym bag or laptop.
- Deactivate Toll Tags: Remove E-ZPass or SunPass tags so you don’t get charged for tolls while your car is on the trailer!
- Remove Accessories: Take off bike racks, luggage boxes, or custom antennas that could be damaged during transit.
3. The “Quarter-Tank” Rule
Weight matters in auto transport.
- Keep gas low: Aim for 1/4 to 1/8 tank of fuel. This is enough for loading and unloading but keeps the carrier’s weight within legal safety limits.
- Check for leaks: Ensure there are no active fluid leaks to protect your car and the others on the trailer.
4. Safety & Mechanical Check
Even if your car is just “hitching a ride,” it needs to be in a movable state.
- Check Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires make loading much safer.
- Disable Alarms: There’s nothing worse than a car alarm going off on a highway for 500 miles. Make sure it’s off!
- Spare Keys: Always keep a set for yourself and provide one full set to the driver.
5. Choose Your Protection Level
Depending on your vehicle, you have two main options:
- Open Transport: Our most popular and cost-effective method.
- Enclosed Transport: Recommended for luxury, exotic, or vintage cars that need 100% protection from the elements.
Ready to Get Moving?
Don’t leave your vehicle’s safety to chance. Get a fast, free, and transparent quote from the experts at AAS LLC USA today.
Summary Readiness
| Task | Completed |
|---|---|
| Exterior Washed | ☐ |
| Personal Items Removed | ☐ |
| Fuel at 1/4 Tank | ☐ |
| Tires Inflated | ☐ |
| Alarm Disabled | ☐ |
| Photos Taken | ☐ |
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