Preparing your vehicle for the cross-country journey from Orlando to Los Angeles is straightforward but important. Here's what you need to do:
Clean your vehicle: Wash both the exterior and interior before shipping. This makes it easier to document any existing damage during the inspection process.
Remove personal items: Take out all personal belongings, toll passes, and loose items from the interior. Carriers are not insured for personal property, and extra weight can affect shipping costs.
Document the condition: Take photos of your vehicle from all angles, noting any scratches, dents, or existing damage. This creates a clear record for comparison upon delivery.
Check fluids and battery: Ensure your car has about a quarter tank of gas (not more, for safety and weight reasons), and that the battery is charged and secure.
Disable alarms: Turn off any car alarms to prevent them from going off during transit.
Remove or secure accessories: Take off or secure any custom antennas, spoilers, bike racks, or other exterior accessories that could be damaged in transit.
Provide a working key: Make sure you have a spare key available for the driver to access and move your vehicle.
For more detailed preparation tips, check out our complete guide on how to ship a car. Whether you choose open transport or enclosed transport, proper preparation ensures a smooth shipping experience across the country.