If you’re moving across the country or interstate, there’s a good chance you’ll need to transport your car too. Moving house can be stressful enough, so why not get someone else to look after your car?
To ensure you have a successful move, follow these 10 tips from Ecoloads!
Do your research
This may seem simple but don’t dismiss this tip. One of the biggest mistakes people make when transporting their car is that they choose the wrong company. This often happens as a result of missing hidden charges or failing to compare quotes. Avoid these mistakes by taking the time to thoroughly examine different providers and check the little details in each quote.
Choose a carrying service
There are two types of car carriers and it’s important you make the best decision for your vehicle.
Open carrier
This is the most common choice for car transportation because it allows the removalist to move a large number of cars at once. However, there are some risks associated with this option. As the car is exposed to the elements, it can be affected by any adverse weather or rocks that might flick up the sides.
Enclosed carrier
As you can imagine, this type of carrier ensures your vehicle is covered and secure from any external forces. However, this will set you back more money.
Understand the insurance
While most vehicle transporters will include a level of insurance in their basic pricing, it’s important you inquire and understand the extent of it. You may find out that it’s worth getting insurance separately as well.
Wash your car
This may sound counterintuitive if you’re about to send your car across the country, particularly if you’re using an open carrier. But by having a clean exterior, you’ll be able to see any potential damage caused by the shipping process when you pick your car up at its destination.
Secure the inside of your car
Just as you need to wash the outside of your car, you should clean the inside too. This will not only ensure you have a tidy vehicle to drive on the other side, but it will keep everything in order too. Secure any items that could easily be tossed around your car, including air fresheners, spare change and any other little items.
Don’t fill up!
Your car isn’t being driven, so it doesn’t need to be filled up with petrol. In fact, filling it up will only add extra weight, which can be a risk during transportation. Leave as little petrol as possible in the tank!
Plan ahead
When you request a quote for transportation, your car removalist will usually provide a rough schedule. However, it’s important to realise that external events, like poor weather or traffic changes, can get in the way of your car arriving on time. Make sure you plan ahead to ensure you can pick up your vehicle within a reasonable timeframe.
Ask for door-to-door delivery
If you aren’t sure you’ll be able to pick up your car on time, find out if your car transporter will deliver your car to your door. This can be really handy if you’re moving house, because you’ve often got a lot on your mind already! One less task on the to-do list can really help to lighten the load.
Check quarantine laws
If you’re moving your car from one state to another, there is a chance your car may have to be inspected for quarantine. To avoid the rude shock of receiving a bill on the other end, make sure you check the state laws beforehand. As a precaution, clean your car from the inside out, including wiping down everything from seat covers to your tires!
Lock it up!
This may seem like a very basic tip, but it’s a necessary one! Once your vehicle has been loaded onto the truck for transportation, there’s no reason for it to be unlocked until it reaches the destination. So lock up your car to avoid the risk of theft.
There you have it, 10 simple tips for transporting your car. If you follow these guidelines, you’ll be sure to have success!
