Summer is the peak time for shipping vehicles. Expectedly, people prefer to make their big move with the sun out. At this time, the housing market is also busy serving buyers and sellers—for more summer movers. When you move long-distance, Montway Auto Transport reviews suggest it makes sense to use a car shipping service to prevent vehicle wear and tear. It also saves you money on fuel, meals, and toll fees—not to mention sparing yourself from the risk of an accident. 

If you’re in the USA or Canada and shipping a vehicle, consider using A1 Auto Transport Phoenix for your transportation needs.

With so many options, you’ll ask yourself “where can I find vehicle transport near me?” Make sure as you do your research that you’re thorough in your findings and searches.

Notably, car shipping companies aren’t just for big moves. If you typically vacation to a different location for summer, car shipping services can help you enjoy it and ensure you can drive in the comforts of your vehicle. For example, if you’re leaving sweltering Florida to spend a pleasantly cool summer in Maine, shipping your car may be cheaper than leasing one for several months. If you’re ready to bask in the warm season, check out these five must-know tips for shipping your car this summer. 

1. Get Various Quotes

Whether you’re moving cross-country or just want to enjoy a summer holiday without spending too much time on the steering wheel, finding a reputable car shipping service is critical. The best transport service can safely move your car to a new home or bring your vehicle to a summer destination. 

And it’s not as expensive as you may think. To help you get started, do your due diligence and research the top three companies in your area. Find out what clients say about them from third-party review sites. Most of all, get a free, no-obligation quote to compare their services. 

2. Keep Documentation

To avoid future frustration, keep a copy of your service contract. If you have any special requests from your auto transport company that they agreed to, get them in writing. Before signing anything, read the fine print. Most of all, you want to work with an auto shipper that provides insurance.

Most licensed auto shipping companies have valid insurance coverage as the law mandates. Don’t be shy and ask to review the policy to see the inclusions. A reputable service provider will not hesitate to show this to you. After all, this document protects you and the shipper if something happens on the road. 

3. Inspect the Vehicle Before Loading

Leverage technology and use your smartphone to take pictures of your car. It would help to wash your car first so you can capture any issues clearly. Cover all angles in both the interior and exterior. You want to zoom in on existing damage like:

• Scratches

• Dents

• Hits

• Signs of corrosion

Keep these files safe, as this will serve as your proof if something gets damaged upon transit. Your auto shipper won’t get offended if you do this. In fact, they appreciate diligent and thorough clients.

4. Prepare the Car for Loading

This is one of the most crucial steps because this will help the company ship the car efficiently while giving you peace of mind. Doing advanced preparations increases the likelihood that your vehicle will arrive without damage. Here are some of the preparatory works you can do: 

• Remove personal items like loose change that could go airborne and damage the glass.

• Take out essential documents from the glove compartment.

• Disable the alarm to prevent any battery drains.

• Take out the tollway transponder.

• Take away expensive gadgets like a stand-alone GPS to prevent thievery.

• Fold back antenna and mirrors to prevent breakage.

• Secure car spoiler and other trimmings or remove them before shipment.

• Keep the gas tank to ¼ full to minimize weight.

• Make sure the tire pressures are even.

• Check and charge the car battery if needed.

Doing these things can help mitigate potential damage. Taking away expensive items dissuades thieves and vandals from targeting your vehicle. Most of all, doing car maintenance beforehand assures that your car will be up and running once it gets to the destination. 

5. Conduct Inspection Upon Arrival

Once your car arrives at your summer destination, don’t accept it without checking first. Perform the same thorough inspection you conducted before loading the vehicle onto the trailer. Take a close look at the exterior and interior to spot damages. You must also check the undercarriage with a flashlight and start the car to see if it’s in good running condition. 

After inspection, the delivery driver will let you sign the bill of lading. This states you’ve received the car in good running condition without any damages. If you sign it, you can no longer go after the shipper, clearing them from liabilities. That’s why inspection is crucial so you can file any claims for damages.