Getting your car ready for Texas auto transport is a very major step that will help the process be very smooth. There are as many responsibilities for the owner as for the company while shipping a car. Whether you’re relocating or shipping your car off for its seasonal vacation, proper procedures will keep your investment safe and ensure the way is clear for successful transports. In this article, will be the key tips to help you prepare your car for auto transport in Texas.
Clean Your Vehicle Thoroughly
Before your car is picked up for transportation, the owner must ensure that the vehicle is cleaned both on the outside and inside of it. A clean vehicle is important in performing a detailed inspection on any existing damage to your car; for example, scratches and dents. This is a very critical stage for both you and the transport company since it provides a record of how your vehicle was before it was shipped. This will ensure that none of your personal things inside the car get lost or damaged during transit. Be sure to remove thrashes and other junk materials. Valuables and important documents may get misplaced in such stuff and so they should be removed as well.
Document Your Car’s Condition
Take detailed, dated photographs of your car at different angles. Take pictures of pre-existing damage and full shots of your car. This documentation will serve as a reference if any problems arise with the transportation. Make sure to date the photographs so that it is on record. You should also want to make a list in as complete detail as possible for any prior damage or problems and present it to the transport company. This can be very beneficial in both parties’ interests so that there are no discrepancies as to the condition of your vehicle.
Check Mechanical Condition
Before handing over your vehicle, it should be in decent running condition. Be on the lookout for fluid leaks, and if the tires, brakes, or batteries are bad, fix them before the transport company picks up the vehicle. If the car is not running, the transport company should be notified since special equipment may be needed to load it. Always keep your vehicle serviced, and make sure all the maintenance that needs to be done is up to date. That can forestall any sudden breakdown or problems of the vehicle during transportation.
Manage Fuel Levels
While preparing your vehicle for shipment, best to have the fuel tank be between 1/8 and 1/4 full. This gives enough to drive on and off of the transport while keeping the overall weight down, which can impact the cost of shipment. Do not fill up, as this adds weight that will increase the chance for spills when boarding or exiting the transport.
Disable Alarms and Remove Toll Tags
If you have any alarm systems installed in your vehicle, turn them off to make the transportation process hassle-free. An alarm blowing its top is stressful for the driver. Remove or turn off any toll tags so you don’t get any unwanted charges while your car is being shipped. This helps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free transport for both you and the driver.
Secure Loose Parts and Accessories
Check your vehicle for any parts or accessories that could fall off while being transported. Secure or remove items like spoilers, antennas or bike racks. If you are shipping a convertible, be sure the top is tied down to prevent damage from wind or flying debris. Loose parts can become a hazard to safety in transit, so take a little extra time to be sure they’re secure.
Prepare Your Keys
Be sure to give the Texas auto transport company all keys relevant to your vehicle, including the ignition and any locks. This allows the driver to have easy access to your vehicle when it becomes necessary. You may even want to consider giving them a spare set of keys in case the original keys get lost or misplaced somewhere along the way.
Choose a Reputable Transport Company
First and foremost, finding a good, trustworthy auto transport company will help you get through the stress of transporting a car. Do some research around companies like Bold Auto Transport, which is known for the safe and prompt vehicle delivery available in Texas. Check their reviews, licensing, insurance, and years of experience. A good company, such as Bold Auto Transport, should be able to show results regarding the safety and punctuality of your vehicle’s delivery.
Understand the Transport Options
Familiarize yourself with the various transport options available at your disposal. Normally, the open transport method is relatively cheap for Texas auto transport, while the enclosed transport option is safer from bad weather conditions. Consider the value of your vehicle and your pocket toward this end. Enclosed transport is normally used to transport high-end, classic, or luxury cars since it offers extra protection from bad weather, flying debris, or other damage.
Plan for Delivery
Once the vehicle has been delivered, get ready for the delivery of your vehicle. Carefully inspect the car at delivery against the photos you took prior to shipment. If all looks well, complete any final paperwork and payment to the transport company. Really, it is a good idea to have arrangements in place for picking up your vehicle from the destination location just to make things nice and smooth.
Conclusion
To conclude, preparing your vehicle for Texas auto transport is not that difficult. Just follow these very vital tips that will prepare your vehicle for the journey ahead. The contents will be on how to clean the car, noting its condition, mechanical checking, and picking a trustworthy transport company that will help you through a smooth transportation process. By doing the right preparation, you would be at peace, assured that the vehicle is in good hands. With a commitment to safety and customer satisfaction, Bold Auto Transport becomes trusted for vehicle transportation within the borders of Texas.
