Tips and Steps on How to Prepare Your Vehicle For Car Transport

Planning to transport your car across Australia or even overseas? Whether you’re heading interstate for work, relocating, or sending your vehicle ahead of a big move, it’s important to prepare your car properly for transport to avoid delays, damage, or additional costs.

At Car Transport Express, we make vehicle shipping easy, but a little preparation on your part goes a long way. Here’s our expert-approved checklist to help you get your car ready before handover.

Step 1: Choose a Reliable Car Transport Company

Before anything else, research and contact a reputable car transport company. Look for companies with:

• Positive customer reviews
• Transparent pricing
• Insurance and tracking options
• Australia-wide coverage
  

At Car Transport Express, we compare reliable carriers to give you the best possible solution for your budget and schedule. Compare car transport quotes online

Step 2: Review the Company’s Terms and Conditions

Before booking, make sure you read and understand the transport company’s policies. This includes:

• Insurance coverage
• Delivery timelines
• Cancellation and refund policies
• Rules around transporting personal items

Understanding your rights and responsibilities ensures there are no surprises later. Explore our interstate vehicle transport process

Step 3: Clean Your Vehicle (Inside and Out)

A clean vehicle makes pre-transport inspection easier. Wash the exterior thoroughly and tidy up the interior, removing food, rubbish, or unnecessary clutter. A clean surface helps document any pre-existing damage like scratches, dents, or paint chips before your vehicle is picked up.

Step 4: Remove All Personal and Valuable Items

Carriers don’t insure personal items left inside your vehicle, and these can also become projectiles during transit. Remove:

• Electronics (GPS devices, dash cams)
• Sunglasses, chargers, coins, documents
• Aftermarket accessories (where possible)

If you’re unsure, check our policy on what items can be left in the vehicle.

Step 5: Leave Only a Quarter Tank of Fuel

Your car will be driven minimally, usually only onto and off the carrier. A quarter tank of petrol or less is sufficient, and helps:

• Reduce weight
• Prevent leaks
• Minimise safety risks during loading

There’s no need to top off the tank before shipping.

Step 6: Record Your Car’s Condition with Photos

Before handing over your car:

• Take clear, timestamped photos from all angles
• Capture the interior, wheels, bumpers, and windscreen
• Note down any existing damage or issues

This is a vital step in case of a dispute. When the car arrives, compare its condition with the photos to ensure everything is intact.

Step 7: Disable the Alarm System

For everyone’s peace of mind, disable your car alarm before transport. Alarm triggers can delay loading or unloading and cause battery drain.

If your alarm system is complex or integrated into a remote-start system, be sure to explain this to the driver.

Bonus Tip: Notify Us of Any Mechanical Issues

If your vehicle has mechanical problems, like a flat battery, stiff brakes, or it’s non-drivable, let us know in advance. We have specialised transport solutions for:

• Non-running cars
• Modified vehicles

Luxury or classic vehicles

Final Checklist for Preparing Your Car

• Choose a reliable transport provider
• Read the terms and insurance policy
• Wash the car and tidy the interior
• Remove all personal items
• Leave the tank ¼ full
• Take pre-shipment photos
• Disable alarms and electronics
• Inform the company of any known issues
  

Ready to Ship Your Car?

At Car Transport Express, we’re here to make vehicle transport stress-free. Whether you’re moving a daily drive, a prestige car, or a non-runner, our network of professional carriers is ready to help. Request your car transport quote now, Got questions? Contact our friendly team, we’re happy to assist.