However, no transport provider should be paid if the car in question has not been inspected thoroughly beforehand. Doing an inspection of the car does not solely refer to just looking at it aesthetically, but involves various different steps to be followed diligently. Documentation is one of the numerous steps that need to be handled properly so that there is no damage while unloading the car.
This guide provides details on how to prepare your vintage car for enclosed transport, discusses the benefits of enclosed auto transport, debates Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping, as well as answers the pressing question: How long does it take to ship a car?
Why Classic Cars Deserve Enclosed Auto Transport
Classic cars are defined as older cars beyond the decade mark. However, their value is more than just age. Most classic cars are considered valuable commodities, and their detailing, fragile interiors, and parts that are hard to replace add to their value. For this reason, owners prefer enclosed auto transport the most. Aside from avoiding bad weather, dirt, and unauthorized viewing, closed auto transport shields cars from weather elements and prying eyes.
This form of transport provides the user with additional benefits such as:
- No contact with rain, snow, or sun: Full protection from elements makes dirt and rainfall non-issues.
- Reduced chances of vandalism: Greater security is provided due to reduced public view, giving dominion to unauthorized people and reducing the risk.
- Additional helpful features: Special equipment is provided, such as soft tie downs, lift gates, and experienced drivers who can properly handle such collectible vehicles.
When comparing Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping, enclosed wins by a wide margin for any vehicle that’s rare, valuable, or historically significant.
Step-by-Step Guide To Get Your Classic Car Ready For Transport
As with any transport method, every classic car must be prepared in exactly the same manner. Hence, in this guide, we will list all the steps you will require to prepare your car for enclosed transport:
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Ensure Your Car is Cleaned Properly
Make sure your automobile is clean before the date of shipping by washing it thoroughly. With a clean surface, it’s easier to document your car’s condition as thoroughly as possible. With regard to small scratches, those will be more visible on a clean exterior.
Please remember to vacuum the interior and remove any loose items that could potentially move around during the shipping process.
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Take Note of Any Damage
After ensuring your car is clean, take pictures from every angle of the automobile while paying close attention to any previously existing blemishes, such as scratches or even dents. These images will act as condition reports and will help in cases where there needs to be a damage claim.
Whenever possible, please share this documentation with the shipping company.
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Do Not Pack Personal Items
This will ensure that the interior of your automobile is fully intact and prevents damage from potentially occurring during transportation. Transporting personal items from one place to another is strictly prohibited by most carriers, and items that are left inside vehicles tend to shift during transit.
Only pack what’s absolutely required and ensure that no valuables or excess baggage are brought along.
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Examine for Fluid Leaks
Look over the car for any leaks and repair them prior to shipment. A car that is leaking not only can harm your own vehicle, but it may also be a danger to other vehicles during transport.
Transport companies may refuse to load cars with active leaks, especially in enclosed auto transport trailers where multiple high-value cars may be shipped together.
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Reduce Fuel Level
Ensure that the gas tank does not exceed one-fourth capacity. This minimizes weight and prevents fuel spilling during the loading or unloading process. Since the vehicle will not be driven for extended distances, there is no need to have a full tank.
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Disable Alarms
All car alarms should be turned off before the vehicle is handed over. An alarm mid-transport is bothersome and can create delays if the carrier needs to stop to deal with the issue.
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Secure or Remove Accessories
Classic cars with aftermarket spoilers, removable mirrors, or other exterior additions should have those items removed or secured. Accessories are more fragile and can be easily damaged during transport.
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Give the Driver a Complete Set of Keys
A complete set of keys includes the trunk and glove box locks, and any other compartments that may require access during the transport.
What to Expect on Shipping Day
Once you hand over the vehicle, the transport company will carry out its own inspection to record any pre-existing damage. A Bill of Lading will be presented to you, and you will be asked to sign it. This is a vital document that shows the car’s condition and becomes proof of its status once the transport company drives off.
As mentioned earlier, confirm that he information captured on the document is correct.
Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping: Why Enclosed Is Worth It
Bidding on a classic car warrants a glimpse at both open and enclosed auto transport services. For the sake of value, what is the difference between the two?
Cars transported via the open method are cheaper to ship. However, they are subject to dirt, pebbles, and public visibility.
Closed transport should be considered if you are dealing with high-end cars or classic cars. While its price tag may be steep, it offers the best value concerning the protection against exposure to paint deterioration, corrosion of exposed parts, and theft.
Classic cars need special attention because a minute scratch can drop their value significantly. Thus, closed transport becomes the only sensible option.
How Long Does It Take To Ship A Vehicle Using Enclosed Transport Services?
For classic car owners, a pressing concern when contemplating shipping is “How long does it take to ship a car using enclosed services?”
While every carrier has its own unique factors that may affect timeframes, here’s a rough estimate based on distance:
- Local transport: (under 500 miles): 1-3 days
- Mid range: (500-1500 miles): 3-5 days
- Cross country: (1500+ miles): 5-10 days
Due to the demand and popularity of open carriers, many people find them to be more easily accessible, and therefore, there are more enclosed carriers than open ones. That means you might have to wait for pickup or drop-off for just a little longer than usual. However, many companies do offer expedited services for an additional fee.
It’s almost always advisable to book transport at least 2 weeks in advance, especially during peak times like summer or holidays.
In Closure
Like every vintage vehicle, your classic car is far more than an automobile – it is an investment and, in many cases, something that serves as part of a person’s legacy and a piece of finely crafted art. So, when it comes to transport, it commands utmost care and attention. When you select an enclosed auto transport, you are making a choice for reassurance regarding the safety of the vehicle.
Knowing how long it takes to ship a car using this premium service enables you to plan and guarantee an effortless transport experience. You now understand the nuances associated with Open vs Enclosed Car Shipping and the advantages enclosed shipping provides.
