Relocating to a new city can be incredibly exciting, but it can also come with stressful challenges if not planned right.
It can be easy to get caught up in the packing planning, saying goodbyes, and considering what your new life will be like, and overlook how you will move your vehicle safely and efficiently.
But that’s where professional auto transport services come in.
They can save time, prevent wear and tear, and make your relocation much more streamlined.
Below, you’ll find a complete guide to help you plan and prepare for a smooth relocation when moving with your car.
Preparing Your Vehicle for a Hassle-Free Move
Before your relocation kicks off, we recommend ensuring your car is ready for its journey.
Even if you’ve already chosen a professional carrier, you need to take care of some of the preparations yourself, ensuring that everything goes smoothly from pickup to delivery. Let’s consider how.
Complete an inspection
Make sure you perform a thorough inspection to document your car’s current condition before transport takes place.
You should take clear, dated photographs of all sides of the vehicles, including close-ups of any existing scratches, dents, or marks.
This record will be helpful for comparison once your car arrives.
Check maintenance and fluids
Putting photographs aside, you should also check that your vehicle is well-maintained.
For example, make sure the oil, brake fluid, and coolant levels are all topped up, and don’t forget to check the tire pressure.
If you do plan to drive the vehicle yourself, you may consider a full service or oil change before getting behind the wheel.
Remove belongings
Remove possessions from the vehicle, such as bike racks.
These items can get damaged or even lost during transit.
Furthermore, while it can be tempting to pack items in the car, most transport carriers recommend you keep personal belongings out of the car for safety and insurance reasons.
Secure the exterior
Ensure doors, windows, and the trunk are fully closed and locked before pickup.
If you’re using auto transport services, you may be asked to hand over one set of keys to the driver.
All in all, a bit of preparation can make a big difference, ensuring your car arrives in the same condition it left.
Choosing Between Driving Yourself and Auto Transport Services
When you take the plunge and move to a new city or state, one decision you’ll have to make is whether you’ll drive your vehicle or have it shipped.
Let’s weigh up the pros and cons.
When driving yourself, you can choose where to stop off during your journey and even make a scenic road trip out of it, offering a nice level of flexibility.
Despite this, you will be subject to driving fatigue, risks of road accidents, vehicle wear and tear, and additional costs of fuel, food, and accommodation.
You’ll also have to commit a portion of time to your trip, as driving is often longer than flying.
For longer distances or relocations across states, auto transport services can offer a more practical and convenient solution. It can offer:
- A quicker alternative: You can quickly fly to your destination while your vehicle is in transit, saving precious time.
- Safety: Avoid winter driving conditions or unfamiliar roads.
- Reduced wear and tear: Prevent unnecessary mileage and maintenance issues by allowing professionals to handle your vehicle.
- Flexible options: You can choose between open vehicle carriers (cost-effective) or enclosed auto transport (for luxury or classic cars).
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, professional carriers are regulated to ensure driver qualifications, insurance, and vehicle safety.
Always verify that your chosen provider is licensed and registered before booking.
Packing and Organizing Tips for a Car Relocation Journey
Regardless of whether you’re driving yourself or using professional car movers, smart packing is essential.
This can help you avoid any last-minute stress.
Plan your essentials early
Gather your essentials early and place them in an easy-to-find spot.
This can include insurance papers, car registration documents, chargers, toiletries, and spare clothes.
Remember that if your car is shipped, these items should travel with you rather than inside the vehicle.
Label and prioritize your belongings
If you’re driving the car yourself, remember to pack light.
Avoid heavy items that can shift during transport or obstruct visibility.
Prepare for different climates
Cross-country relocations can mean traveling through multiple weather zones.
This means you should cover all bases when it comes to packing.
Manage your schedule
Planning is your best friend regarding auto transport, so make sure you coordinate your vehicle’s pickup and delivery timeframe with your moving schedule.
Reliable auto transport services will provide you with a clear estimate for both, enabling you to plan your flights accordingly.
Review insurance and contracts
Before moving forward with your auto transport provider, be sure to double-check your insurance policy and confirm what is actually covered.
You should always choose a partner with clear insurance policies.
A well-organized packing plan keeps both you and your vehicle prepared for any situation during the relocation.
Post-Move Checklist: Inspecting and Registering Your Vehicle in a New Location
Despite what you first might think, the process doesn’t end once your vehicle has arrived at your destination.
You should complete these final few steps below to ensure your vehicle is ready to hit the road both safely and legally:
Inspect your vehicle
If you used auto transport services, you must conduct an inspection and compare the vehicle’s condition against the pre-transport photographs.
Any new scratches or dents should be made known to the carrier, which can help process an insurance claim.
Register your vehicle
Most states require that you register your vehicle locally within a certain timeframe.
Check your new state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website for specific requirements.
Update insurance and license plates
Your insurance provider will need to update your policy based on the new address and state regulations.
You may also be required to exchange your license plates and driver’s license to comply with local laws.
Maintain your vehicle
Once the move is complete, take care of your vehicle by checking fluids, tire pressure, and the battery to ensure everything is in good shape. You may also want to wash off any debris that it gained during the transport journey.
Completing this monthly checklist ensures a smooth transition into your new home and reduces the likelihood of encountering any nasty post-move surprises.
Travel Smart Today with Professional Car Transport Services
Relocating can be daunting, especially when considering how to get your vehicle from A to B. But whatever reason you are moving, you should take the time to plan every detail to save yourself unnecessary stress.
Working with experienced auto transport services allows movers to focus on settling into their new homes while professionals handle the logistics. With clear delivery timeframes, insured shipping, and regulated transport carriers, your car can arrive safely and efficiently at its destination.
Take the next step—contact a trusted auto transport provider today and start your move with confidence. Make your relocation smoother by getting a quote or consulting with a professional auto transport service now or learn more about how to choose the right partner.
