Proper preparation ensures your vehicle arrives safely in Miami and helps avoid any delays during pickup in Boston. Here's what you need to do:
Clean your vehicle inside and out. A clean car makes it easier to document any existing damage during the pre-transport inspection. Take photos of all sides, including close-ups of any scratches or dents.
Remove personal items and accessories. Carriers are not insured for personal belongings left inside the vehicle. Remove toll passes (E-ZPass), GPS devices, bike racks, roof boxes, and any aftermarket accessories that could come loose during transit. You can leave up to 100 pounds in the trunk, but check with your carrier first.
Check fluid levels and tire pressure. Your car needs to be in running condition for loading and unloading. Top off fluids and ensure tires are properly inflated, but keep the gas tank only about 1/4 full to reduce weight.
Disable alarms and provide a key. Car alarms can drain your battery during the 3-5 day journey from Boston to Miami. Make sure to give the driver a working key or key fob.
Document everything. Before the carrier loads your vehicle, walk around it with the driver and note any existing damage on the Bill of Lading. This protects you if any issues arise, and it's important for vehicle shipping insurance claims.
If you're a snowbird making this seasonal move, check out our winter to summer car shipping guide for additional tips specific to the Boston-Miami route.