Simplify your Car Shipping with these easy to use Checklists
Posted on Fri, Dec 31, 2010
Simplify your Car Shipping with these easy to use Auto Transport Checklists
The auto transport process is straightforward. But with a few simple pointers the process can go even smother. Here are 3 Auto Transport Checklists to help simplify your auto transport / car shipping and help you ensure everything comes out just right. The 1st check list should be completed before your vehicle is picked-up. The second should be completed as the vehicle is picked-up and the 3rd checklist should be completed when the vehicle is being delivered.
Vehicle Prep Checklist
Complete these simple steps before your driver arrives to pickup your vehicle:
√ Make sure the vehicle is in good running order. If there are issues it is best to remedy these before your have the vehicle shipped.
If the vehicle is NOT running that is OK, but it does cost more to transport a vehicle that is not running.
√ Make sure there is between 1/8 to 1/4 a tank of fuel in the vehicle.
√ We recommend that you remove the license plate and place it in the vehicle out of sight. (For example: under the passenger floor matt.)
√ Disable all alarm systems.
√ Remove all easily removable equipment from the vehicle, especially items that might be stolen. These include:
◊ CB's, DVD players, radar detectors, GPS's
◊ removable car stereos and speakers
◊ removable luggage racks, bike racks, antennas, and spoilers
√ Have 1 set of keys for the driver but keep 1 set of keys for yourself.
(Note: If you are purchasing a vehicle we recommend that you have a set of keys shipped to you separately from the vehicle)
√ Clean the vehicle inside and out. This will help facilitate a complete inspection at pickup and at delivery.
√ Don't pack the car with personal items. Most drivers will allow no more than 100 lbs of personal belongings in the vehicle during shipping, and it more than likely has to be in the trunk. Be prepared to discuss this with your driver. Please note that personal items shipped with the vehicle will not be insured if lost or stolen.
√ Make sure that you vehicle is personally insured. Most auto shipping companies will not repair damages due to normal road conditions or acts of God. Generally, the driver's insurance only covers damage directly caused by the driver.
√ If you are making a payment to the driver get the funds you need ready.
Vehicle Pickup Checklist
When the driver arrives to pickup your vehicle here is a checklist of the tasks that need to be completed:
√ Check the driver's identity and make sure he is the driver you are expecting
√ Confirm the delivery location and estimated delivery date with the driver.
√ Confirm the driver's payment plans.
√ Give 1 set of keys to the driver.
√ Do a complete inspection with the driver making sure that any damage items are marked on the BOL (Bill Of Lading) correctly. Items that should be marked are:
◊ Cracked Glass: windows, mirrors, lights and lenses
◊ Paint scratches and chips
◊ Dents
√ If you are making a payment to the driver make sure the payment is documented on the BOL
√ Sign and date the BOL and have the driver sign as well. Make sure you get a copy of the signed BOL from the driver
Note: The BOL is a legal document that protects your rights. Make sure you receive a signed copy before the driver leaves.
That is it; now the driver can load your vehicle and beginning the journey.
Vehicle Delivery Checklist
When your vehicle is delivered there are few items of business that must be attended to before you rev your engines and head out for that 1st joy ride:
√ After the vehicle is unloaded do a complete inspection of the vehicle, making sure there are no new items to mark on the BOL
If there is new damage make sure the damage is noted on the BOL.
√ If you are paying the driver at delivery make the payment.
√ Make sure the payment is noted on the BOL (Bill of Lading) and have the driver sign and date the BOL.
√ Have the driver provide you with a copy of the final BOL.
Start enjoying your newly delivered vehicle.
Other Resources from Total Car Shipping
♦ Our FAQ's include a wealth of helpful Auto Transport information and tips
♦ A free white paper "How to get the best Price for your Auto Transport" that may help you save hundreds of dollars on your auto transport
♦ Blog article "Understanding the Auto Transport Industry - Part 1" and "Part-2"