✅ How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Transport (The 10-Minute Checklist)
Why this matters
Most delays and disputes come from small things: no clear access, low battery, or missing photos. This guide turns pickup into a 10-minute, stress-free handoff.
1) Clean & empty (2 minutes)
Quick wash or wipe-down. A clean surface makes inspection photos clear.
Remove personal items. Up to ~100 lbs in the trunk may be okay, but loose items inside the cabin can be refused or add fees.
Take valuables out. Tolls transponders, dash cams, garage remotes, paperwork.
Pro tip: Put the owner’s manual and spare key in a labeled envelope.
2) Photos = your best friend (3 minutes)
Take 8-12 geo-tagged photos in daylight:
Front, rear, driver side, passenger side
4 wheel/tire close-ups
Interior (front & rear), odometer, dashboard (no warning lights if possible)
Any prior dents, scratches, or mods
Why: Photos document pre-existing condition and protect you and the carrier. Anapa attaches pickup & delivery photos to your order for full transparency.
3) Fuel, battery, and basic checks (2 minutes)
Fuel: ~¼ tank is ideal (lighter vehicle, easier loading).
Battery: Starts and idles, if weak, charge it.
Leaks: If there’s a drip, let us know so the carrier can place the vehicle accordingly.
Tire pressure: Proper PSI helps with loading and tie-downs.
Inop? We can still ship it. Note this on your quote so we assign a winch or rollback.
4) Alarms, accessories, and clearance (1 minute)
Disable alarms & remote starts. False alarms during transit drain batteries.
Fold mirrors, remove toll tags & antennas if removable.
Clearance: If lowered or extra-long (RVs, racks, spoilers), tell us so we match the right trailer.
5) Access for the truck (1-2 minutes)
Space: A car hauler needs straight approach and room to maneuver.
Surfaces: Avoid soft ground; use a nearby wide street if needed.
Gate/HOA codes: Share in advance.
Contact: Keep your phone on, drivers coordinate ETAs directly.
6) At pickup: quick inspection + signature (1 minute)
The driver will:
Walk around the vehicle and note its condition on the Bill of Lading (eBOL)
Take geo-tagged photos (Anapa does this at pickup and delivery)
Have you or your designee sign the eBOL
You’ll receive digital copies for your records.
7) Open vs. enclosed: choose once, avoid switches
Open trailer: Most common, most economical.
Enclosed trailer: Best for exotics, classics, or brand-new.
Changing trailer type after dispatch can cause delays, pick based on your needs up front (we’ll advise if unsure).
8) Tracking & updates
Every shipment with Anapa includes:
Real-time GPS updates
Status messages for ETA windows
Photo documentation at pickup and delivery
If you have a strict delivery window (auction, storage lot, port), tell us in advance so we schedule appropriately.
9) Payments & paperwork (simple and clear)
No deposit until pickup is confirmed.
Payment timing: Due at pickup (or per your written quote).
Receipts & docs: You’ll receive digital BOL and delivery confirmation.
Note: Optional Worry-Free Guarantee ($199) is available for consumer vehicles (cars, motorcycles, boats, RVs). It does not apply to heavy equipment.
10) Quick checklist (copy/screenshot)
☐ ¼ tank of fuel
☐ Battery starts and idles
☐ Personal items removed (trunk ≤ ~100 lbs)
☐ 8-12 geo-tagged photos taken
☐ Alarms/remote start off; mirrors folded
☐ Driveway/road space clear for carrier
☐ Keys and contact available for pickup
☐ Trailer type chosen (open or enclosed)
FAQs
Can I ship a non-running car?
Yes. If it rolls, steers, and brakes, we assign equipment with a winch or rollback. Mark “Not Running” on your quote.What about personal items?
Trunk/cargo area up to ~100 lbs is typically allowed. Heavier items must be disclosed and may affect availability or price.Will weather delay my shipment?
Winter routes and storms can add time. We’ll update ETAs proactively and route around closures where possible.How do I contact the driver?
You’ll receive your driver’s number after dispatch. Our main line is (208) 450-3555 if you need help.Ready to ship?
Get a fast, transparent quote and schedule your pickup.
Request a Quote
