Preparing your vehicle properly helps protect it during transit and makes the pickup process smooth. Here's what you need to do:
Remove personal items and accessories. Take out anything loose inside your car—documents, valuables, electronics, and fragile items shouldn't travel with your vehicle. Also remove any exterior add-ons like roof racks, spoilers, or custom trim that could get damaged or lost in transit.
Clear out toll passes and check your fuel level. Remove any toll passes, parking permits, or EZ-Pass devices. Keep your fuel tank at a quarter tank—enough for the carrier to move your vehicle on and off the transport, but not so full that it's a safety concern.
Disable alarms and provide a spare key. If your car has a car alarm, disable it before pickup. Have a spare key ready for the carrier, since your vehicle will need to be moved during loading and unloading.
Document your vehicle's condition. Take photos of your car from multiple angles before shipment. This gives you a record of its condition in case any damage occurs during transport. When the carrier arrives, do a final walk-around inspection together and note any pre-existing dents or scratches on the bill of lading.
Check your insurance coverage. Make sure you understand what's covered during transport. You may want to learn more about auto transport insurance options to protect your vehicle.
For more detailed guidance, see our complete car relocation resources. When you're ready, get multiple quotes from our network of vetted carriers to find the best rate for your Florida to New York shipment.