Transporting your car across long distances in Australia, whether for a relocation, sale, or other purposes, requires thorough preparation to ensure the process is smooth and your vehicle arrives in the same condition it was picked up.
Australian Car Movers, like many others, handle vehicles across the country’s vast landscape, which poses unique challenges, from varying climates to extended travel times. Proper preparation is essential to avoid potential damage and ensure peace of mind throughout the journey. \
In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to prepare your car for long-distance transport in Australia.
Understanding the Long-Distance Transport Process
Before diving into the preparation steps, it’s important to understand the logistics of long-distance car transport in Australia. Whether you’re moving your vehicle interstate or across regions, the transport company will typically use either an open carrier or an enclosed carrier.
- Open Carrier: Most common and cost-effective, but exposes the car to the elements.
- Enclosed Carrier: Offers more protection from weather and road debris but at a higher cost.
The choice between these options depends on your car’s value, weather conditions, and your budget. Once you’ve selected a transport method, you’ll need to prepare your vehicle for the journey.
Step 1: Clean Your Car Inside and Out
While it might seem counterintuitive to clean your car before it gets loaded onto a truck, this is a crucial step for a few reasons:
- Identify Pre-Existing Damage: A clean car allows you to thoroughly inspect for any existing scratches, dents, or other damage. Documenting this is vital for comparison after the transport.
- Prevent Further Damage: Dirt and grime can hide scratches or even cause damage during the loading and unloading process.
Make sure to also clean the interior, as items left inside could be jostled around during transport, potentially causing damage to the car’s interior or becoming lost.
Step 2: Document Your Car’s Condition
After cleaning your vehicle, take detailed photographs of its current condition. Focus on all angles of the exterior, close-ups of any existing damage, and the interior as well. These photos will serve as evidence should you need to file a claim for any damage incurred during transport.
In addition to photos, take notes on the car’s condition, including mileage and any mechanical issues. This comprehensive documentation will be useful for your records and provide peace of mind.
Step 3: Remove Personal Belongings and Accessories
Transport companies typically require that personal belongings be removed from the car before transport. This is important for several reasons:
- Weight Management: Extra items add weight to the car, which can affect transport costs and vehicle handling.
- Insurance Coverage: Most transport insurance policies do not cover personal belongings inside the vehicle.
- Security: Items left inside can shift during transport, potentially damaging the car’s interior or even causing breakage.
Additionally, remove any external accessories like roof racks, antennas, and custom spoilers that could be damaged during the transport or pose a risk to other vehicles on the carrier.
Step 4: Check and Maintain Fluid Levels
Before your car embarks on its journey, ensure that all fluids are at appropriate levels, but not overfilled. This includes:
- Engine Oil
- Brake Fluid
- Coolant
- Transmission Fluid
- Power Steering Fluid
Check for any leaks, as transport companies often refuse to ship vehicles with significant fluid leaks due to the risk of damage to other vehicles or the carrier itself. It’s also a good idea to keep your fuel tank at about a quarter full. This ensures there is enough fuel for loading and unloading while minimizing weight.
Step 5: Perform Necessary Maintenance
If your vehicle is due for any routine maintenance, it’s wise to take care of it before transport. Ensure the following are in good working order:
- Battery: Make sure your battery is fully charged and securely fastened.
- Tyres: Check tyre pressure and ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Over-inflated or under-inflated tyres can cause damage during transport.
- Brakes: Ensure your brakes are functioning properly, as they may be needed during loading and unloading.
Completing these tasks will help prevent any issues that might arise during transport and will also make it easier for the transport company to handle your vehicle.
Step 6: Disable Alarms and Trackers
If your car has a security alarm or tracking system, it’s best to disable them before transport. Alarms going off during the journey can be disruptive and could drain your car’s battery. Notify the transport company if you have a tracking system, as they may need to disable it temporarily.
Step 7: Prepare a Spare Key
It’s essential to provide the transport company with a spare key to your vehicle. This allows them to move your car on and off the carrier without you having to be present. Make sure the spare key is fully functional and, if applicable, include a key fob for electronic systems.
Step 8: Confirm Insurance Coverage
While most reputable transport companies offer insurance coverage as part of their service, it’s crucial to confirm the details:
- Coverage Limit: Understand the maximum amount covered by the transport company’s insurance.
- Types of Damage Covered: Ensure that the policy covers all potential risks during transport, such as weather-related damage, accidents, and theft.
- Personal Insurance: Check with your own auto insurance provider to see if your policy covers long-distance transport. If not, consider purchasing additional coverage.
Having a clear understanding of the insurance terms will give you peace of mind and help avoid any disputes should something go wrong.
Step 9: Review the Transport Contract
Before handing over your vehicle, carefully review the transport contract. Pay attention to:
- Pickup and Delivery Dates: Confirm the expected timeline for your vehicle’s transport.
- Cost and Payment Terms: Ensure there are no hidden fees or unexpected charges.
- Damage Policies: Understand the process for filing a claim in case of damage.
Asking questions and clarifying details with the transport company can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth experience.
Step 10: Prepare for Pickup and Delivery
Finally, arrange for the pickup and delivery of your vehicle. Ensure that you or a trusted representative is available at both locations to oversee the process. Have your documentation ready, including the condition report, photos, and insurance information.
It’s also a good idea to confirm the drop-off location’s accessibility, particularly if it’s in a residential area with narrow streets or limited parking.
Conclusion
Preparing your car for long-distance transport in Australia involves careful planning and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can ensure that your vehicle arrives safely and without any issues. Remember that every car transport is unique, so tailor these tips to your specific situation. Whether you’re moving across the country or simply sending your vehicle to a new location, thorough preparation will make the process stress-free and successful.
Long-distance car transport is a significant undertaking, but with the right preparation, you can trust that your vehicle will be in good hands throughout its journey across Australia.
