With regard to shipping a car to a show or an event, there is much more to it than simply getting a random transport service to send it off. From a classic car to a custom build or an exotic vehicle, each and every one requires special handling so that it arrives safe, on time, and in pristine condition. How to best ship cars for shows and events is best determined by steps and advice which include tips on choosing the right transport method, preparing the car, and having the entire process go smoothly from beginning to end.
Comprehend the Various Shipping Options.
While shipping a car to an event, a transport method must be selected from several different options which all come with their own types of services, benefits, and disadvantages. Fast Car Transport offers varying selections to make sure your vehicle is shipped fast and safely.
a) Open Transport
This method of car transport is the cheapest and most widely used in the industry. The car is placed on the “open” type of truck known as carriers, like a set of bulk transport trucks. Despite being the cheapest method, it is also the least protective one as it does not shield the vehicle from weather conditions. In most cases, open transport will suffice, but if you’re sending your high-value vehicle for a showcase, then a more secure method would be recommended.
b) Enclosed Transport
Vehicles with higher value or are extremely delicate are better served with enclosed transport because it offers more protection. The car will be transported within a fully covered trailer to safeguard it from weather conditions, road debris, and scratches. This option is the most effective for cars being taken to major shows or events, particularly for vintage, sporty cars, or any automobile that needs to be preserved. While this method is more expensive than the others, the added security makes it worth the cost for rare or expensive vehicles.
c) Expedited Shipping
If a car is needed at an event by a certain date and time, expedited shipping can assist. This method will be provided the utmost priority regardless of the cost. All shipping deadlines must be discussed with the provider prior to the event to avoid missing the delivery deadline.
d) Door-to-Door vs Terminal-to-Terminal
In door to door transport, the vehicle is fetched from the customer’s location and delivered near the event for convenience. While this is the most convenient method, it may be restricted in some areas that they service which can limit overall accessibility. Terminal to terminal shipping offers more cost effective options, as the customer only needs to drop off and pick up the vehicle from the transport terminal. Although, this method is less convenient as the customer must find transportation to the terminal.
Getting Ready for Car Shipment
Preparing your vehicle properly can greatly help ensure that your car arrives in your desired condition. Prior to shipping your car for an event or show, follow these steps:
a) Car Wash
Washing your car serves multiple purposes. It makes it easier for you and the transport company to inspect the car for existing damages as well as any other damages that could occur during transport. If time permits, it would be best to take photos of the vehicle from different perspectives as documentation.
b) Empty Your Vehicle
While it may seem appealing to use your car as storage for personal items, it is essential to remove all belongings before shipping. The risk of theft increases with personal items and most transport companies limit shipping to empty vehicles as safety and liability come into play. Furthermore, make sure to remove all toll tags, parking passes, or any other items that could trouble in transit.
c) Check for Fluid Leaks
Make sure to check for any fluid leaks prior to shipping your car. Transports companies are often inclined to working on the assumption that the cars they receive are in good shape, with no leaking fluids, since that would cause problems in transport or with other vehicles.
d) Make Sure that Your Car is Running Optimally
For all intents and purposes, a fully charged battery is not a necessity. However, ensure that your car is in running order. A car that doesn’t work incurs expenses by requiring supplementary measures for loading and unloading due to the necessitated non-operational condition.
e) Turn Off Security Features
Certain systems like alarms have the potential to go off while the vehicle is being transported to different locations, especially in open transport. Any beeping systems should be shut off or have someone attend to them since the operators must not be disturbed while moving the vehicle during the transportation phase.
Arrange the Timing for Pickup and Drop-off
When moving a car to any event, timing comes off as one of the crucial factors to consider. In conjunction with the transport company, an individual walker must be designated to guarantee that the vehicle reaches the event or show at the required time.
a) Arrange the Pickup Date Early
With Fast Car Transport’s options, not having an early shipment makes things easier for the customers, especially when the transport is easy. There are cases where Fast Car Transport can fulfill last-minute orders without issue. It is strategically best to make the shipment earlier when filled with time. For easy access to the event or show, being the first to book is key as many people wanting to attend or participate in them can surge demand for shipping services leading to limited availability.
b) Allow for Delays
While expedited shipping helps speed things up, weather, road construction, and other logistics can cause delays. It is best to order your car a little ahead of time so that it arrives before the event or show starts.
c) Communicate with the Event Organizers
Do remember to alert the event organizers of your car’s expected delivery time. Many events have designated schedules for vehicle unloading and parking. Bringing them into the communication stream gets the vehicle delivered as planned.
Track Your Shipment and Stay Updated
Remaining in contact with the transport company is essential once your car is on the way. During transit, Fast Car Transport allows monitoring your vehicle’s location. Regular contact during the transport guarantees not only peace of mind but also awareness of any potential problems.
Expectations During Delivery
When your vehicle is delivered to the venue, be sure to examine it closely to confirm that everything is functioning as expected. Here is what you should do upon delivery:
a) Damage Inspection
During this step, you should inspect your vehicle thoroughly to ensure that there is no damage. Refer to the pictures taken prior to shipping for comparison. You should document any evidence of damage and notify the transport service to start the claim procedure.
b) Acknowledge Receipt of Delivery
In order for the vehicle to be officially delivered, you must append your signature to a delivery receipt. Make sure that before you provide your signature, the vehicle does not have any mechanical problems. After ensuring all those conditions are fulfilled, outline the receipt.
Final Remarks
You need to meticulously plan how to ship your car to the venue so that everything goes easily, in addition to choosing the right means of transport. Whichever option you pick: open transport as a cost saving way, or enclosed transport as a protective measure, remember that both ways require proper planning and scheduling in advance in order for the vehicle to be delivered in time and sustained condition. In order to eliminate any concerns regarding your vehicle, best offer you can get is to transfer it to Fast Car Transport, where skilled hands will take good care of your vehicle.
