Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport: Expert Tips & Mission Auto Transport’s Free Quote Guide

Estimated reading time: 15 minutes

Key Takeaways

• Proper vehicle preparation is essential for safe and damage-free transport
• Thorough cleaning and documentation protect you from disputed damage claims
• Basic maintenance checks ensure your vehicle can be safely loaded and unloaded
• Maintain your fuel tank at approximately 1/4 full for optimal safety and efficiency
• Mission Auto Transport offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees and 24/7 support

Getting ready to ship your car across the country can feel overwhelming. Preparing your vehicle for transport is essential for a stress-free long-distance shipping experience with Mission Auto Transport. Whether you’re moving cross-country, purchasing a vehicle from out-of-state, or sending a car to a family member, the way you prepare your vehicle can make the difference between a smooth journey and a problematic one. From cleaning your vehicle to maintaining appropriate fuel levels, numerous steps ensure your prized possession arrives safely at its destination.

Many vehicle owners underestimate the importance of proper preparation, which can lead to unnecessary damage, delays in transit, or even additional costs. Mission Auto Transport understands these challenges and offers comprehensive solutions to make your vehicle shipping experience seamless while providing free quotes to help you plan your budget effectively. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing your vehicle for transport, highlighting best practices and professional insights to protect your investment.

Why Vehicle Preparation Matters

The process of vehicle prep for long-distance shipping isn’t just a formality—it’s a critical step that directly impacts the safety and condition of your automobile during transit. Inadequate preparation significantly increases the risk of damage to your vehicle, from minor scratches to more serious mechanical issues that could prove costly. Additionally, poorly prepared vehicles can cause delays in the shipping process, affecting not only your timeline but potentially other customers’ schedules as well.

From a liability perspective, proper vehicle prep creates a clear record of your car’s condition before shipping, which becomes invaluable if any disputes arise about damage during transport. By documenting pre-existing conditions and removing personal belongings, you establish clear boundaries of responsibility between you and the shipping company. This documentation serves as your protection and provides peace of mind throughout the shipping process.

Financial considerations also play a significant role in the importance of vehicle preparation. Taking time to properly prepare your vehicle can save substantial amounts in potential repair costs down the line. Small investments in maintenance before shipping can prevent major mechanical issues during or after transport. Mission Auto Transport’s experts have witnessed countless situations where proper preparation prevented thousands of dollars in damages, reinforcing the adage that prevention truly is better than cure when it comes to vehicle shipping.

Beyond financial aspects, thorough preparation also saves valuable time. A well-prepared vehicle facilitates a smoother pickup and delivery process without last-minute complications that could delay your shipment. Mission Auto Transport’s team specializes in guiding customers through each preparation step, ensuring nothing is overlooked and every detail is addressed before your vehicle begins its journey. Their experience in the industry has refined their approach to vehicle preparation, making them trusted advisors in the long-distance shipping process.

Step-by-Step Vehicle Prep Guide

Clean Your Vehicle Inside and Out

Starting with a thoroughly cleaned vehicle isn’t just about aesthetics—it serves a crucial documentation purpose for your long-distance shipping journey. Washing your vehicle’s exterior removes dirt and grime that might otherwise mask existing scratches or dents, giving you a clear view of your car’s current condition. This clarity allows you to document any pre-existing damage accurately before the transport process begins.

The interior cleaning process is equally important, as it helps you identify and remove any personal items that shouldn’t remain during transport. A clean interior also makes it easier to spot any new stains or damage that might occur during shipping. When cleaning your vehicle, pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas where damage might be less noticeable but still significant.

After cleaning, take comprehensive, timestamped photographs of your vehicle from multiple angles. These photos should capture the entire exterior, including close-ups of any existing damage, no matter how minor it may seem. Document the interior condition as well, focusing on the dashboard, seats, and cargo areas. This photographic evidence becomes your insurance policy against disputed claims and provides clear documentation of your vehicle’s pre-transport condition. Store these images securely and make them available both to yourself and your transport coordinator for reference.

Long Distance Towing’s guide emphasizes that proper documentation can prevent disputes and ensure your vehicle returns to you in the same condition it left.

Remove Personal Belongings

Personal items left in your vehicle during transport pose multiple risks that many vehicle owners don’t consider until it’s too late. First and foremost, transport companies explicitly exclude personal belongings from their insurance coverage, leaving these items completely unprotected during transit. In the unfortunate event of theft or damage, you would have no recourse for compensation through the transport company.

Additionally, loose items in your vehicle become potential projectiles during transport. The movement and vibrations experienced during long-distance shipping can cause these objects to shift, potentially damaging your vehicle’s interior or even creating mechanical problems if small items find their way into sensitive components. Electronics are particularly vulnerable, as they can be damaged by extreme temperatures that vehicles might experience during transit.

When preparing your vehicle, thoroughly check all storage compartments, including the glove compartment, center console, door pockets, trunk, and under seats. Remove all personal items, including:

• Electronic devices (GPS units, dash cams, portable chargers)
• Paperwork and documents
• Sunglasses and other personal accessories
• Loose change and small items from consoles
• Tools and emergency equipment (you can return essential tools after inspection)
• Child seats (unless specifically approved by the transport company)

By removing these items, you not only protect your belongings but also reduce the overall weight of your vehicle. Lower weight means more efficient transport and reduced stress on your vehicle during shipping, contributing to a safer overall experience.

According to Long Distance Towing’s preparation guide, personal items can become dangerous projectiles during transit and are never covered by carrier insurance.

Perform Basic Maintenance

Proper mechanical preparation ensures your vehicle can be safely loaded, transported, and unloaded without complications that could delay your shipment or damage your car. Begin with a comprehensive fluid check, examining levels of oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Top off any fluids that are below recommended levels, but avoid overfilling as expansion can occur during transport due to temperature changes.

Tire condition plays a critical role in safe loading and unloading procedures. Check all tires, including the spare if applicable, and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (typically found in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb). Properly inflated tires reduce the risk of flats during loading and unloading processes and ensure stability during transport. If your tires show significant wear or damage, consider replacing them before shipping to avoid complications.

Battery security is often overlooked but extremely important during vehicle transport. Ensure your battery is securely fastened in its mounting bracket to prevent movement during transit. Clean any corrosion from the terminals and check that connections are tight. If your battery is older or showing signs of weakness, consider replacing it before transport to prevent loading difficulties. A vehicle with a dead battery creates significant challenges during the loading and unloading process, potentially leading to delays or additional fees.

Address any known mechanical issues before your vehicle is transported, particularly those affecting braking systems, steering, or transmission. These problems can complicate loading procedures and potentially create unsafe conditions during transport. Even seemingly minor issues like unusual noises, warning lights, or fluid leaks should be addressed by a qualified mechanic before shipping. This proactive approach ensures your vehicle arrives in the same condition it left and prevents transport-related complications.

Industry experts recommend checking all fluids, tire pressure, and battery connections before shipping to prevent complications during loading and transport.

Secure Detachable Parts

External accessories and detachable components present significant vulnerability during long-distance shipping due to their exposure to wind forces, load shifting, and potential contact with carrier equipment. Antennas are particularly susceptible to damage—retract telescoping antennas fully or, if yours is a fixed antenna, consider removing it completely and storing it inside the vehicle (after notifying your transport coordinator). Custom or aftermarket antennas require special attention as they’re often more fragile than factory-installed versions.

Performance-enhancing additions like custom spoilers, especially those with aftermarket installation, should be evaluated carefully. If the spoiler is easily removable without specialized tools, consider detaching and securing it inside your vehicle for the duration of transport. For permanently installed spoilers, document their condition thoroughly with close-up photos from multiple angles, noting any existing damage or weakness in the mounting points.

Convertible owners face unique considerations when preparing for vehicle transport. Soft tops are vulnerable to damage from wind, debris, and weather conditions during transit. Whenever possible, raise and secure the convertible top completely, ensuring all locking mechanisms are engaged. For added protection, convertible owners should consider using a high-quality weatherproof cover specifically designed for their vehicle model, securing it properly to prevent wind damage during transport.

Removable roof panels, common in some sports cars and specialty vehicles, require special attention. These panels should either be removed and securely stored inside the vehicle cabin or thoroughly secured using all manufacturer-designed locking mechanisms. If storing panels inside, wrap them in protective materials like moving blankets to prevent shifting and potential damage to both the panels and your vehicle’s interior surfaces during transport.

Professional transport services advise securing or removing all external accessories to prevent damage from wind forces during highway travel.

Disable Alarms

Vehicle security systems can create significant complications during the transport process if not properly managed before shipment. When a car alarm activates during transit, it creates disruption for the entire transport operation, potentially causing delays and complications for multiple vehicles. More concerning is that an activated alarm can quickly drain your vehicle’s battery, making loading and unloading more difficult at your destination and potentially requiring jump-starting services.

For most modern vehicles, disabling the alarm system involves a straightforward process through your vehicle’s key fob or internal settings. Consult your owner’s manual for the specific procedure for your make and model, as the process varies significantly between manufacturers. Typically, you’ll need to:

1. Lock the vehicle using the key rather than the remote
2. Access the vehicle’s onboard computer settings through the dashboard interface
3. Navigate to security or alarm settings
4. Select temporary disable or transport mode (if available)
5. Confirm the change and test by attempting to trigger the alarm

For vehicles with aftermarket alarm systems, the disabling process may be more complex and might require consultation with the installation technician or the system manufacturer. These systems often have hidden switches, specialized disarming procedures, or even separate keys that need to be provided to the transport company.

If complete deactivation isn’t possible or if you’re uncomfortable fully disabling your security system, prepare detailed written instructions for the transport team. These instructions should include clear, step-by-step directions for disarming the alarm if it activates, including any special codes, key sequences, or hidden switches. Place these instructions in a sealed envelope labeled “Alarm Instructions” and inform your transport coordinator about its location. This preparation ensures that if your alarm does activate during transport, the team can quickly resolve the issue without causing delays.

Transport specialists note that active car alarms can create major disruptions during shipping and quickly drain your vehicle’s battery.

Adjust Fuel Levels

Maintaining proper fuel levels represents a critical yet frequently overlooked aspect of vehicle preparation for long-distance shipping. The industry standard recommendation of maintaining your gas tank at approximately 1/4 full (or less) exists for several practical reasons that impact both safety and efficiency during transport.

Excessive fuel significantly increases your vehicle’s weight, which poses multiple challenges during shipping. A full tank can add 100+ pounds to your vehicle’s weight, increasing strain on transport equipment and potentially affecting weight distribution across the entire carrier. This added weight also increases fuel consumption for the transport truck, which may ultimately be reflected in shipping costs. Additionally, heavier vehicles require more careful handling during loading and unloading procedures.

From a safety perspective, minimizing fuel in your tank reduces the volume of flammable material being transported, decreasing potential hazards during the shipping process. While modern fuel systems are well-designed to prevent leaks, the principle of minimizing risk remains sound transportation practice. Less fuel means less potential for complications in the unlikely event of an accident.

Despite these considerations, maintaining a small amount of fuel (around 1/4 tank) remains essential for practical reasons. Your vehicle will need to be driven during the loading and unloading processes, requiring sufficient fuel for these operations. Additionally, having a small reserve ensures you can immediately drive to a nearby gas station upon delivery without needing to arrange for fuel delivery at your destination.

When preparing your vehicle, check your fuel gauge and plan refueling accordingly in the days before transport. If your tank is currently full, consider using the vehicle more in the days leading up to shipping to naturally reduce fuel levels rather than attempting to remove fuel manually, which can be dangerous and is not recommended. For hybrid or electric vehicles, similar principles apply—a partial charge is ideal for transport, typically around 30-50% of full capacity.

Transportation safety guidelines recommend maintaining approximately 1/4 tank of fuel to reduce weight and minimize flammable materials during shipping.

The Long-Distance Shipping Process Explained

Understanding the complete journey your vehicle takes during long-distance shipping with Mission Auto Transport helps alleviate common concerns and sets appropriate expectations for the process. The transportation cycle begins with scheduling, where logistics specialists determine the optimal pickup and delivery dates based on your timeline, destination, and carrier availability. During this initial phase, Mission Auto Transport’s team works to accommodate your specific needs while maintaining realistic timeframes based on current routes and transportation demands.

Once scheduling is confirmed, the vehicle preparation phase begins, incorporating all the steps previously outlined in this guide. Mission Auto Transport provides detailed preparation instructions customized to your specific vehicle type, whether you’re shipping a standard sedan, luxury vehicle, classic car, or specialty automobile. Their guidance ensures you’ve completed all necessary steps before the carrier arrives for pickup.

The pickup process involves a thorough inspection conducted jointly by you and the carrier representative. This critical stage creates the baseline condition report that documents your vehicle’s pre-transport state. The inspector notes any existing damage on an industry-standard form often called a Bill of Lading (BOL). Take this opportunity to point out any special concerns or existing damage to ensure complete documentation. Many Mission Auto Transport customers find it helpful to supplement this inspection with their own timestamped photographs for additional peace of mind.

Vehicle loading techniques vary based on your selected carrier type. For open transport (the most common and economical option), your vehicle is secured on an exposed multi-car carrier using specialized equipment that prevents movement during transit. The process involves precise placement and securing of your vehicle with soft straps and wheel chocks to prevent shifting. For enclosed transport, preferred for luxury, classic, or high-value vehicles, the loading process takes place in a fully enclosed trailer with additional protection from the elements and road debris.

During transit, your vehicle becomes part of a carefully planned route that balances efficiency with care. Mission Auto Transport employs advanced tracking systems that allow you to monitor your vehicle’s progress throughout its journey. Their communication protocols include regular updates at key milestones and immediate notification of any schedule changes or delays. This transparency provides peace of mind throughout the shipping process, eliminating the anxiety of wondering where your vehicle is during transport.

The typical timeline for long-distance shipping varies based on distance and route, with cross-country transports (e.g., California to New York) generally taking 7-10 days. Shorter regional transports might complete in as few as 3-5 days. Weather conditions, seasonal factors, and route specifics can influence these timeframes, which is why Mission Auto Transport emphasizes realistic scheduling and constant communication throughout the process.

Upon arrival at your destination, the delivery process mirrors the pickup in terms of inspection protocols. The carrier will contact you before arrival to coordinate a convenient delivery time and location. At delivery, you’ll conduct another thorough inspection alongside the carrier representative, comparing the vehicle’s current condition to the original BOL documentation. Any discrepancies should be noted immediately on the delivery documents before signing for receipt of your vehicle.

Why Choose Mission Auto Transport?

Expertise & Reliability

Mission Auto Transport brings over a decade of specialized experience in the vehicle shipping industry, developing systems and protocols refined through thousands of successful transportations. Their longevity in this competitive industry demonstrates a sustained commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence rarely matched by newer market entrants. This experience translates directly to how they handle your vehicle—with the confidence and care that only comes from extensive practical knowledge.

Customer testimonials consistently highlight Mission Auto Transport’s reliability, with on-time delivery rates significantly exceeding industry averages. Their reputation is built on consistent performance across various vehicle types, from standard sedans to luxury automobiles and specialized vehicles requiring unique handling procedures. This proven track record provides peace of mind that your vehicle will arrive at its destination safely and on schedule.

The company maintains comprehensive licensing and insurance coverage that exceeds federal requirements for auto transporters. Their US DOT and MC numbers are publicly verifiable, allowing customers to confirm their legitimate operating authority. Mission Auto Transport maintains extensive cargo insurance with coverage limits that protect even high-value vehicles, providing financial security against the unexpected. Their transparent approach to documentation gives customers immediate access to proof of insurance upon request, establishing trust through transparency.

Industry recognition further validates Mission Auto Transport’s position as a leader in vehicle shipping. They maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and have received multiple industry accolades for operational excellence and customer service. Professional affiliations with organizations like the Auto Haulers Association of America demonstrate their commitment to industry best practices and continuous improvement in vehicle transport standards.

Transparent Pricing

Mission Auto Transport distinguishes itself through a pricing philosophy built on complete transparency, eliminating the hidden fees and surprise charges that plague many competitors in the vehicle shipping industry. Their comprehensive quotes include all essential services such as basic insurance coverage, fuel surcharges, and standard loading/unloading procedures, preventing the unpleasant surprise of additional costs appearing after you’ve committed to their service.

The company’s free quote tool provides instant, no-obligation estimates that allow you to plan your budget effectively without pressure tactics. This user-friendly system requires only basic information about your vehicle and desired route to generate accurate pricing based on current market conditions. The online estimate takes just minutes to complete and provides a detailed breakdown of costs, allowing you to understand exactly what you’re paying for before making any commitment.

Unlike many competitors who provide intentionally low initial quotes only to raise prices later, Mission Auto Transport stands behind their quoted prices. Their price-lock guarantee ensures that the rate you’re quoted remains valid, protecting you from the bait-and-switch tactics common in the industry. This commitment to honesty builds trust with customers who appreciate straightforward business practices.

For those seeking immediate pricing information, Mission Auto Transport’s free quote tool is available at Mission Auto Transport’s quote page. This convenient resource allows you to begin planning your vehicle transport with confidence, knowing that the price you see reflects the actual cost of your specific shipping needs without hidden surprises.

Customer Support

Mission Auto Transport’s approach to customer service centers on 24/7 availability through multiple communication channels, ensuring that help is always accessible regardless of your time zone or schedule. Their dedicated support team remains available via phone, email, and live chat, providing immediate assistance for urgent concerns or detailed responses to complex inquiries. This around-the-clock availability proves particularly valuable during active transports when questions or concerns might arise outside normal business hours.

Real-time tracking capabilities represent a cornerstone of their customer support infrastructure, providing continuous visibility into your vehicle’s location and status throughout the transport process. Their tracking systems update automatically as your vehicle progresses along its route, with additional manual verification from transport coordinators ensuring accuracy. This transparency eliminates the anxiety of wondering where your vehicle is during long-distance transit.

Communication protocols at Mission Auto Transport include proactive updates at key milestones throughout your vehicle’s journey. Rather than leaving customers to wonder about progress, their team provides regular notifications about departure confirmation, major route transitions, and approaching delivery. These updates arrive via your preferred communication method—text, email, or phone—ensuring you receive information in the most convenient format for your needs.

The company’s dedication to responsive problem-solving distinguishes their customer support from competitors. Should unexpected situations arise during transport, their team implements established resolution protocols designed to address issues quickly while keeping customers fully informed. This solution-oriented approach focuses not just on fixing problems but on maintaining customer confidence throughout the resolution process.

How to Get Your Free Quote

Getting your vehicle transport journey started with Mission Auto Transport begins with their streamlined quote process, designed to provide accurate pricing with minimal hassle. Their user-friendly system eliminates complicated forms and unnecessary questions, focusing instead on the essential information needed to generate a precise quote for your specific situation. This approach respects your time while ensuring you receive accurate pricing information to support your decision-making.

Begin by visiting Mission Auto Transport’s dedicated quote page at Mission Auto Transport’s quote page. This secure portal serves as your gateway to personalized pricing based on your specific vehicle and route requirements. The mobile-optimized design works seamlessly across devices, allowing you to request quotes whether you’re at your desk or on the go.

The quote form requires just a few key pieces of information to generate accurate pricing:

1. Vehicle details, including make, model, year, and any modifications that might affect transport (lifted trucks, lowered sports cars, etc.)
2. Pickup location, including city, state, and zip code
3. Delivery destination, including city, state, and zip code
4. Desired timeframe for transport
5. Contact information for receiving your personalized quote

After submitting this information, Mission Auto Transport’s sophisticated pricing algorithm calculates your quote based on current market conditions, distance, vehicle specifications, and carrier availability. This technology-driven approach ensures pricing accuracy while providing near-instant results—typically within 30 seconds of submission. The system delivers your quote directly to your preferred contact method, whether email or phone.

For those preferring human interaction, Mission Auto Transport offers the option to speak directly with a transport coordinator who can walk you through the quote process and answer any questions about your specific shipping needs. This personalized approach provides additional reassurance and allows for discussion of any special requirements or concerns about your vehicle transport.

The entire quote process is designed for simplicity—most customers complete it in under two minutes. There’s absolutely no obligation attached to requesting a quote, and Mission Auto Transport maintains a strict no-pressure policy, allowing you to evaluate their pricing and services at your own pace without unwanted follow-up calls or messages.

Securing your transport slot early offers significant advantages, including priority scheduling and potential cost savings. Mission Auto Transport frequently provides early booking discounts of up to 10% for customers who plan ahead, making it financially beneficial to obtain your quote and reserve your spot well in advance of your desired shipping date. This approach ensures availability during high-demand seasons when carrier capacity can become limited.

Your free quote represents the beginning of a transparent relationship with Mission Auto Transport, setting the foundation for a stress-free vehicle shipping experience built on clear communication and fair pricing. Visit Mission Auto Transport’s quote page today to take the first step toward professional vehicle transport services tailored to your specific needs.

Conclusion

Properly preparing your vehicle for transport creates the foundation for a successful shipping experience, protecting your investment and ensuring a smoother process from pickup to delivery. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the essential steps in vehicle preparation, from cleaning and documentation to maintenance checks and security measures. These preparations aren’t merely suggestions but critical actions that directly impact the safety and condition of your vehicle during its journey.

Mission Auto Transport’s commitment to excellence in long-distance vehicle shipping is evident in their comprehensive approach to customer education, transparent pricing, and responsive support throughout the shipping process. Their industry expertise helps customers navigate the complexities of vehicle transport with confidence, knowing they’re working with professionals who understand both the technical and customer service aspects of successful vehicle shipping.

The vehicle preparation process may seem detailed, but these efforts yield significant benefits in protection and peace of mind. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you establish clear documentation of your vehicle’s condition, prepare it mechanically for transport, and reduce the likelihood of complications during shipping. These steps, combined with Mission Auto Transport’s professional handling, create the optimal conditions for your vehicle’s safe arrival.

As you consider your vehicle transport options, remember that quality and reliability should guide your decision rather than solely focusing on price. Mission Auto Transport’s dedication to customer satisfaction, transparent pricing, and comprehensive service has established them as leaders in the vehicle shipping industry. Their approach balances affordability with the security and confidence that comes from working with established professionals.

Ready to ship with confidence? Click here for your free quote from Mission Auto Transport and start your stress-free journey! The simple quote process provides immediate pricing information without obligation, allowing you to make informed decisions about your vehicle shipping needs. Their team stands ready to answer your questions and guide you through the entire process, from preparation through delivery, ensuring your vehicle arrives safely at its destination.

FAQs About Vehicle Transport Preparation

How far in advance should I book my vehicle transport?
For standard routes, booking 2-3 weeks in advance is recommended. During peak seasons (summer months and December-January), consider booking 3-4 weeks ahead to secure preferred dates and potentially lower rates. Last-minute shipping is possible but often comes with premium pricing and limited carrier availability.

Do I need to be present for pickup and delivery?
While having the vehicle owner present is ideal, Mission Auto Transport can accommodate designated representatives for both pickup and delivery. You’ll need to provide written authorization for your representative and ensure they can complete the inspection process and necessary paperwork. Inform your transport coordinator in advance if you’re arranging for a representative.

What if my vehicle is inoperable?
Inoperable vehicles can still be transported, but this requires special equipment and handling. When requesting your quote, clearly indicate that your vehicle doesn’t run. Additional fees typically apply, as loading and unloading require winches or other specialized equipment. The transport team will need details about exactly what doesn’t work (steering, brakes, etc.) to prepare properly.

Is my vehicle insured during transport?
Yes, all shipments through Mission Auto Transport include insurance coverage. The carrier’s insurance covers external damage that might occur during transit. Before shipping, you’ll receive documentation of the coverage limits and claim procedures. For high-value vehicles, consider discussing supplemental insurance options with your transport coordinator.

Can I transport my vehicle with personal items inside?
While the Department of Transportation strictly prohibits transport companies from acting as moving services, Mission Auto Transport allows a limited amount of personal items (up to 100 pounds) in the trunk or cargo area, secured properly and not visible from outside. These items are not covered by carrier insurance, and some states have stricter regulations prohibiting any personal items during transport.

How do seasonal factors affect vehicle shipping?
Weather conditions significantly impact transport operations. Winter shipping may experience delays in northern routes due to snow and ice, while summer brings higher demand and potentially higher prices. Hurricane season affects Florida and Gulf Coast shipments. Mission Auto Transport monitors weather patterns and provides realistic timeframes based on seasonal factors for your specific route.