Proper preparation ensures your vehicle arrives safely in Atlanta and helps avoid any delays during pickup in Miami. Here's what you need to do:
Clean and Inspect Your Vehicle: Wash your car thoroughly, inside and out. This makes it easier to document any existing damage with photos before shipping. Take clear pictures from multiple angles and note any scratches or dents on the inspection report.
Remove Personal Items: Carriers are not insured to transport personal belongings, and extra weight can violate Department of Transportation regulations. Remove all personal items from the interior, including toll passes, GPS devices, and any loose items that could shift during transit.
Check Fluid Levels and Battery: Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel (about a quarter tank) and that the battery is fully charged. Check for any fluid leaks that could worsen during transport.
Secure or Remove Accessories: Retract or remove antennas, fold in side mirrors, and secure or remove any custom spoilers, bike racks, or roof cargo boxes. These external accessories can be damaged during loading or transit.
Disable Alarms: Make sure your car alarm is turned off to prevent it from going off during transport, which could drain your battery.
Provide a Working Key: You'll need to give the driver a working key so they can load and unload your vehicle. If you're using door to door car shipping, make arrangements for key exchange at both pickup and delivery.
Gather Your Documentation: Have your vehicle registration and any required car shipping documents ready for the carrier. Review your insurance coverage or consider additional vehicle shipping insurance for peace of mind.
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth pickup in Miami and a safe delivery to Atlanta.