Car Shipping Checklist by AmeriStar
Prepare your vehicle for a safe, legal and stress-free transport. Our essential car shipping checklist helps you prevent costly delays, protect your vehicle and ensure smooth pickup and delivery whether you’re shipping across Florida, Texas, California or anywhere in the US.
Before taking another shipping action, you might need to pay attention to the following information - car shipping checklist:
Clean Your Vehicle Inside and Out
Clean your car and remove personal belongings before shipping. A clean exterior will allow the carrier to make a proper inspection and emptying the inside will prevent anything from shifting or getting damaged while shipping.
Document Your Vehicle's Condition
Obtain clear photos and videos to capture any scratches, dents or cosmetic damage already present. Having this photo documentation will make you comfortable and will be evidence should you ever have to make an insurance claim.
Perform a Basic Maintenance Check
Check tire pressure, battery charge & fluid levels. Repair small leaks or mechanical issues in advance, this helps with safe loading, unloading and hauling.
Turn Off Alarms and Toll Tags
Disable any car alarm and remove toll tags or parking passes. This prevents unintentional activation during shipping and prevents unnecessary charges while vehicle is on the move.
Keep Fuel Level About 1/4 Tank
Keep the fuel about a quarter of a tank to load and unload only. A lower amount of fuel reduces vehicle weight and safer and more efficient transport.
Secure or Remove Loose Accessories
Remove or secure external attachments such as bike racks, spoilers & roof boxes. This will prevent damage to the car & other vehicles during shipping.
Provide Accurate Contact & Delivery Details
Verify pick-ups and drop-offs, phone numbers and preferred times. Correct information guarantees smooth communications and punctual delivery particularly during busy routes such as Florida, Texas and California.
Keep Keys and Documents Ready
Carry an entire set of keys and any documentation that may be requested (i.e. registration or proof of ownership) readily available to the carrier.
Verify Carrier Credentials
Before shipping, ensure that your carrier is licensed, insured and registered with FMCSA. AmeriStar only employs experienced and background-checked carriers to provide reassurance.
Discuss Insurance Coverage Upfront
Ask about insurance protection and coverage thresholds on your shipment. AmeriStar provides extensive protection to your vehicle, therefore you're always covered during shipping.
Plan for Seasonal Shipping Demand
If you're shipping through summer moves or snowbird season, schedule your shipment months in advance to get preferable schedules and preferable prices.
Coordinate Drop-Off & Pickup Access
Also ensure that you have enough space to place the carrier truck while making pick-ups and deliveries. If access to the street is limited, request the AmeriStar personnel to open alternate nearby locations.
Why a Pre-Shipping Checklist Matters
Shipping your car isn’t just about handing over the keys a little preparation goes a long way. Following a car shipping checklist helps you:
Prevent Damage
By ensuring your vehicle is secure & ready for transport.
Avoid Delays
Caused by incomplete documents, low battery or access issues.
Protect Your Investment
With documented condition reports before pickup.
Build Trust
With your carrier and ensure smooth communication from start to finish.
At AmeriStar, we’ve helped thousands of drivers safely transport vehicles across Florida, Texas, New York, California and beyond. Whether you’re shipping across state lines using this checklist means fewer surprises and a smoother delivery every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Before Shipping
Even small oversights can lead to serious trouble during shipping. Here are the top mistakes we see and how to avoid them:
- Leaving personal belongings inside – They’re not covered by insurance and can shift during transit.
- Skipping photos – Without a visual record, insurance claims become harder to process.
- Not disabling alarms or toll tags – These can trigger mid-transport or rack up unnecessary charges.
- Low tire pressure or fluid leaks – They enhance loading hazards and can cause slow pick-ups.
- Incorrect delivery details – Spelling mistakes or errors in phone numbers may cause late delivery.
Confirming these fundamental steps prior to delivery can eliminate future stress, financial loss, and lost time.
Need help preparing your vehicle for shipping?
Speak with an AmeriStar specialist today we’ll walk you through every step.
Seasonal & Location-Based Prep Tips
Where and when you ship your vehicle can make a difference. Here’s how to plan smart:
- Florida & Texas: Prebook during snowbird season (Oct–April) when demand spikes & prices peak. Be sure to check weather forecasts to avoid tropical storm delays.
- New York & Northeast: Winter shipping? Top off antifreeze and wash off road salt before pickup.
- California & Southwest: Scorching conditions can strain batteries and tires, inspect both before transport.
- Cross-country relocating: Schedule 1-2 weeks in advance to attain best costs and schedule.
The AmeriStar staff assists with navigating these local details so that your vehicle arrives safely regardless of the distance.
Ready to Ship?
Get Your Free Car Shipping Checklist (PDF)
Want a printable version of this checklist to keep on hand?
Download our Free Car Shipping Prep Guide (PDF). A simple one-page checklist you can use before pickup day.
It’s the same guide our logistics experts use to ensure smooth, stress-free transport for thousands of customers across the US.