Shipping your car can be a stressful process, especially if you’re worried about potential damage during transit. Whether you’re relocating, buying a vehicle online, or sending your car to a seasonal destination, ensuring it arrives safely is a top priority. At JP Auto Transport, we understand how valuable your vehicle is, and we’re here to help you minimize the risks associated with car shipping.

If an auto transport company handles interstate car shipping, they need to be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT).

Before choosing a car-hauling company to move your vehicle, always ask for the company’s USDOT and MC numbers. These numbers let you dig into their safety records.

In addition to checking their credentials, take a few minutes to look into their online reputation. Visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for their history and read reviews from past customers. A little research goes a long way in finding a reliable auto transport company.

Check out our reviews on Google, Reddit, and Yelp . If you like the feedback from previous customers, you can get an instant quote on our website at JP Auto Transport

In this article, we’ll share practical tips to avoid damage during car transport, so you can ship your car with confidence and peace of mind.

Why Does Car Damage Happen During Transport?

While most car shipments go off without a hitch, accidents and mishaps can occur. Understanding the common causes of damage can help you prepare and take preventative steps. Some of the key factors include:

Improper Loading or Unloading: Cars that aren’t secured properly on the transport truck can shift or get damaged during loading or unloading.

Road Debris: Open carriers expose vehicles to elements like dirt, rocks, and debris, which can cause scratches or dings.

Weather Conditions: Extreme weather, such as hail, heavy rain, or snow blizzards, can potentially damage vehicles during transit.

Low Ground Clearance: Cars with low clearance are at higher risk of scraping or damage during loading.

Inadequate Transport Equipment: Old or poorly maintained trailers can increase the likelihood of damage.

Thankfully, with the right preparation and a reputable car transport company, you can avoid these issues and ensure your car arrives in pristine condition.

 

Steps to Avoid Damage During Car Transport

Follow these tips to minimize the risk of damage to your vehicle during shipping:

Choose a Reliable Car Transport Company

The first and most important step is selecting a reputable company like JP Auto Transport. Look for:

Licensed and Insured: Ensure the company is registered with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and provides proper insurance coverage. JP Auto Transport is a licensed and insured carrier-broker vehicle logistics company authorized by the Federal Carrier Safety Administration under USDOT number 3215610.

Customer Reviews: Check reviews and testimonials to see how others rate their services.

Great service, awesome communication! Truck had a bit of an issue so pickup and delivery was delayed a few days but still within the window originally promised. Tons of photos before and after and tracking. Will definitely use JP Auto Transport again.

– Zachary Anaya

Experience and Expertise: Choose a company with a proven track record in safe and reliable vehicle transport.

Inspect and Document Your Vehicle Before Shipping

Perform a thorough inspection of your car before handing it over for transport. Take the following steps:

Wash Your Car	A clean car makes it easier to inspect for any pre-existing damage.
Take Multiple Photos	Once the car is clean, it’s the ideal time to take high-definition photos. Don’t just focus on any damaged areas -capture general shots of the vehicle from various angles.
Take a Photo of the Odometer	It’s not mandatory, but it’s recommended.
Check the Battery and Tires	Ensure that the battery is fully charged and the tires are inflated adhering to the recommended tire pressure by the manufacturer. Here’s an example: 34 psi for 17-inch wheels;  36 psi for 19-inch wheels.
Secure or Remove Accessories	To prevent damage to your car or the accessories themselves, you should remove accessories such as bike racks, luggage racks, ski racks, custom spoilers, and others.
Personal Belongings	Most carriers do not allow personal belongings above 100 lbs. in the trunk of the vehicle due to safety regulations and liability issues.
Check the Car for Fluid Leaks	Ensure your vehicle is free of fluid leaks to avoid complications during transport.
Disable Alarms	Deactivate any alarms to prevent them from going off during transit.
Deactivate or Remove Toll Tags	Whether your vehicle is being driven or transported on a trailer, the toll tag will likely register the fee if it passes through a toll road.
Leave the Gas 1/8 to 1/4 Full.	Your car only needs enough gas to drive
	on and off the car trailer. The lighter your vehicel is for interstate car transport, the better as it will save a bit of weight for the car hauler.
Charge your Electric Vehicle (EV) above 50%	If you’re shipping an EV, make sure the battery charge is between 45-65% and don’t forget the charging cables.

Remove Personal Items

Ensure your car is in good condition before transport. Key checks include:

Tire Pressure: Overinflated or underinflated tires can increase the risk of damage during loading and unloading.

Fluid Levels: Address any leaks, as they can damage your car or others on the carrier.

Secure or Remove External Accessories

External parts, such as antennas, spoilers, or bike racks, can be prone to damage. Secure or remove these accessories to prevent them from breaking or causing harm to the vehicle.

Consider Enclosed Transport for High-Value Vehicles

If you’re shipping a luxury, classic, or exotic car, opt for enclosed transport. While open carriers are cost-effective, enclosed carriers provide extra protection by shielding your car from weather and road debris. This added layer of security is worth the investment for valuable vehicles.

Discuss Special Handling for Low-Clearance Cars

Vehicles with low ground clearance are more susceptible to damage during loading and unloading. Reputable car shipping companies, like JP Auto Transport, use specialized equipment such as hydraulic lift gates to safely handle these cars. Be sure to notify your transport provider in advance if your car requires special handling.

Track Your Shipment with Status Tracking Visibility

Choose a transport company that offers status tracking feture. This keeps you informed about your car’s location and estimated delivery time, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.

Perform a Post-Delivery Inspection

Once your vehicle arrives at its destination:

Inspect the Car Thoroughly: Compare the car’s condition to your pre-transport photos and documentation.

Note Any Damage: If you notice any new damage, document it immediately and inform the transport company.

Sign the Bill of Lading: Only sign this document after you’re satisfied with the condition of your car.

Work With a Transport Company That Values Safety

At JP Auto Transport, we prioritize safety and take every precaution to ensure your vehicle is handled with care. From using experienced drivers to employing advanced transport equipment, we make vehicle safety our top priority.

Ship Your Car Safely with JP Auto Transport

Avoiding damage during car transport starts with choosing the right car shipping company and taking a few simple precautions.

Visit JP Auto Transport to request a free, no-obligation quote and start planning your car shipment. With us, your vehicle is in safe hands every step of the way. Let’s get your car where it needs to go, damage-free!