October 11, 2025

How to Prepare Your Car for Auto Transport (Step-by-Step Guide)

By Bigfella Auto Express · 2 minute read

Shipping your car can feel stressful, especially if it’s your first time. At Bigfella Auto Express, we help customers every day get their vehicles picked up, transported, and delivered safely — coast to coast.
Proper preparation is one of the easiest ways to make sure your transport goes smoothly and your car arrives exactly as expected.

Here’s a simple step-by-step checklist you can follow before pickup day.

1. Wash and Inspect Your Vehicle

Start by giving your car a thorough wash. A clean surface helps you (and the carrier) notice any existing scratches, dents, or paint chips.
Take clear photos of all sides, including close-ups of rims, bumpers, and the roof. Save the pictures with timestamps — they serve as a visual record for your condition report.

2. Remove Personal Belongings

Auto transport carriers are not licensed to carry personal items inside vehicles. Remove:

Bags, boxes, and electronics
Toll tags or EZ-Pass devices (they can still charge while in transit)
Loose items in the trunk or cabin that could move around

Leaving your vehicle light and empty helps prevent damage and ensures compliance with carrier insurance rules.

3. Check for Leaks and Mechanical Issues

A quick inspection can save time on pickup day. Look for:

Fluid leaks under the car
Tire pressure (make sure it’s at manufacturer-recommended levels)
Battery charge and secure cables
Working brakes and emergency brake

If your car isn’t running, let your broker know in advance — Bigfella Auto Express arranges transport for inoperable vehicles, but carriers need the right equipment (like a winch or a trailer with a lift).

4. Leave a Quarter Tank of Gas

Your vehicle only needs enough fuel to drive on and off the carrier — around ¼ tank is ideal. A lighter car means better safety and efficiency for the hauler.

5. Secure or Remove Accessories

Fold in mirrors and remove or secure any add-ons such as:

Roof racks or bike racks
Spoilers
Antennas that can be unscrewed
Custom covers or decals that might come loose during transport

This reduces the risk of anything catching wind or being damaged in transit.

6. Disable Alarms and Toll Tags

Double-check that any alarm systems are turned off before pickup. If your alarm goes off mid-transit, the driver can’t stop easily to reset it.
Remove toll passes to avoid being charged along the route.

7. Exchange Contact and Key Details

When your carrier arrives, confirm:

Driver’s name and company
Bill of Lading (inspection report) details
Estimated delivery date
Contact number for updates

At Bigfella Auto Express, every customer gets verified driver info and photo updates at pickup and delivery for extra peace of mind.

8. Review and Sign the Bill of Lading

Before the driver leaves, review the inspection sheet carefully and make sure both of you sign it. This document confirms your vehicle’s condition before transport — keep a copy for your records.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your car the right way ensures a faster pickup, fewer surprises, and a smoother delivery.
Whether you’re relocating, buying a car online, or sending one to a family member, a few small steps can save you a lot of hassle down the road.

At Bigfella Auto Express, we make auto transport simple, transparent, and dependable from start to finish.
If you’re ready for a quote or want help planning your next shipment, visit
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