If you need to move a vehicle interstate and aren’t keen to drive it yourself, you may have decided to use interstate car freight instead. Whether moving homes, buying or selling a vehicle, relocating company fleet vehicles, or travelling for seasonal work, it’s important to prepare your vehicle properly for transport. This helps to prevent damage, as well as avoid delays and extra costs.
So what do you need to know? Here’s our step-by-step guide to getting your vehicle ready for transport.
Preparing For Interstate Car Freight
1. Clean your vehicle
Wash your vehicle exterior well, including all mirrors, lights, and windows.
2. Inspect your vehicle
Once the car is clean, confirm the pre-transport condition by carrying out a visual inspection. Note any damage and where it’s located, including:
- dents, scratches or chips to exterior panels and paintwork
- rust
- scratches, chips or cracks in the windscreen, windows, or mirrors.
Take clear, dated photos from every angle.
The transport company should carry out their own pre-transport inspection of your vehicle, as having accurate records of the condition of the vehicle helps protect both parties. However, by conducting your own inspection, you can ensure their condition assessment is the same as yours. Being on the same page from the beginning helps avoid conflicts or misunderstandings down the track.
3. Remove loose items and personal belongings
It’s best to empty the vehicle before transport – a good guide is to leave only factory-fitted accessories if possible.
Removing any loose items and belongings reduces the risk of loss or damage, since these items are not typically included in the transit insurance policy.
Remember to check the boot, glovebox and all pockets and cubbyholes for bits and pieces. Commonly overlooked items include sunglasses, phone chargers, car seats and booster seats, pens, and coins.
4. Make sure the vehicle is mechanically sound
Unless transporting a non-runner, your vehicle should be operational and mechanically sound.
Remember to check the following:
- Tyres should be correctly inflated
- Battery should be charged
- Brakes should be working
- There should be no fluid leaks
- Coolant, oil, and fuel should be at the correct levels.
If you are aware of any mechanical issues, let your car transport company know in advance.
5. Correct the fuel level
Unless advised otherwise, never hand your vehicle over for transport with a full tank of fuel. A maximum of around one-quarter of a tank of fuel is typically recommended. This reduces vehicle weight and increases safety during transport.
6. Other preparations
- Turn off your car alarm to prevent battery drain and avoid transport delays
- Fold in your side mirrors (if possible)
- Secure or remove spoilers, antennas, or roof accessories.
7. Prepare keys and paperwork
- Make sure your vehicle registration is up to date, or disclose that it will be unregistered
- Lock the vehicle and hand over all keys (including immobiliser keys) to the transport company
- Confirm pickup and delivery procedures with your transport company, ensuring you are clear on all details
- Have your booking confirmation and transport company contact details handy for the duration of your car’s transit.
Choose Reliable Interstate Car Freight
For safe, efficient interstate car freight solutions that save you the stress and expense of a long roadtrip, chat with All Vehicle Freight. Our friendly team are standing by to answer all your questions and get your transport booked in.
