Preparing your vehicle for a cross-country shipment from North Carolina to California is simple and important. Here's what you need to do:
Remove personal items and accessories. Take out anything loose inside the car—toll passes, air fresheners, phone chargers, and valuables. Remove any exterior accessories like roof racks, spoilers, or custom parts that could get damaged or fall off during transit.
Check your fuel level. Fill your tank to a quarter full. This gives the driver enough fuel to load and unload your car safely without carrying extra weight across the country.
Document your vehicle's condition. Take photos and note any existing dents, scratches, or damage. This protects you and creates a clear record for pickup and delivery.
Ensure you have a working key. Provide the carrier with a key so they can move your vehicle on and off the transport truck. A spare key is even better.
Check your battery and tires. Make sure your battery works and your tires have adequate pressure. A dead battery or flat tire can delay your shipment.
Disable alarms and remove custom settings. Disable any aftermarket alarm systems that might trigger during transport. This prevents unnecessary complications for the driver.
For more detailed guidance, see our How To Ship A Car resource. When you're ready to ship, get multiple quotes from our network of carriers to find the best rate for your move.