A little preparation before pickup protects your vehicle, speeds up the handover and gives you a clear record if anything needs to be discussed at delivery. Work through this checklist in the day or two before the carrier arrives.

The checklist

1. Wash the vehicle. Dirt hides scratches and dents. A clean car makes the pickup inspection accurate.
2. Photograph it from every angle. Front, back, both sides, roof, wheels and close-ups of any existing damage, plus the odometer. Make sure the photos are dated.
3. Remove personal belongings. Items left in the vehicle are generally not covered by the carrier's cargo insurance, and loose items can move around in transit.
4. Remove toll tags and parking passes, so you are not charged as the truck passes through toll plazas.
5. Leave about a quarter tank of fuel. Enough to load and unload; more only adds weight.
6. Check for leaks. Let the carrier know about any leak before pickup. A leaking vehicle can damage cars loaded beneath it.
7. Check the battery and tires. The vehicle needs to start and roll to be loaded easily. If it does not run, say so when you book.
8. Disable the alarm, or explain to the driver how to switch it off.
9. Secure the outside. Fold in mirrors, retract or remove antennas, and remove bike racks, roof boxes and anything else loose.
10. Mention modifications. Lift kits, lowered suspension, oversized tires and roof racks change how a vehicle loads and how much space it takes. Tell us when you book.
11. Prepare the keys. The driver needs a full set, including any separate keys for the trunk or fuel cap.
12. Confirm contacts at both ends. Make sure the people handing over and receiving the vehicle are available and have their phones on.

On delivery day

Inspect the vehicle before you sign, using your photos and the pickup notes on the Bill of Lading for comparison. If you spot anything new, note it on the Bill of Lading before signing and photograph it. That note is what any claim is based on.

Ready to book? Request a quote and we will be in touch.