Everything You Should Know Before Shipping Your Classic Car

Next to dogs, classic cars are humans’ best friend — they deserve all the care, love and attention they can get, especially if you’re trying to get it somewhere far away.

Many classic car enthusiasts search for ways to move their vehicles across destinations. Should you ship or drive your classic car to a different location? What’s the best way to ship your classic vehicle across destinations? Is it better to ship a car open or enclosed? These are a few of the pertinent questions people ask. In most cases, shipping the vehicle is a wise choice.

Why Should You Ship Your Classic?

Driving your classic model is thrilling. But moving it to distant locations is an entirely different story. Classic vehicles are not just cars. They’re embodiments of style and status — there’s nothing more fulfilling than maintaining a rare classic and passing it on for generations. Shipping your classic protects them when you’re going long distances.

Shipping your classic car also saves you time. A professional auto transporter takes the load off your shoulder, allowing you to use that time for other things. Reward yourself by relaxing while professionals take care of your concerns.

While classic vehicles are elegant, they may lack certain modern features that make them comfortable, especially when you haven’t made modern modifications. Driving hundreds of miles without air conditioning or new seats may not be that comfortable.

Is It Cheaper to Drive or Ship a Classic Car Across the Country?

At first glance, driving your classic car over a long distance seems like an economical alternative. But a long drive means higher costs due to factors like:

• Gas
• Wear and tear on your car
• The time you spend on the road
• Accommodations you stay in as you travel

With those and other costs combined, you’ll usually find it’s worth it to ship a classic car.

How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Classic Car?

You could be looking at over $1,000 to ship your classic car, but that amount changes based on your situation. Shipping a classic car depends on a number of factors including the distance, how far you want it delivered, the mode of transportation and sometimes the worth of the car. Confirming pricing with the transport company is usually easy.

How Do You Prepare Your Car for Shipment?

International and domestic car shipments take similar processes. In both cases, consider these vital factors when preparing your classic car for shipment.

1. Remove Personal Items

Remove your personal belongings and keep them safe before shipping the vehicle. The auto transportation company may not protect items found in the car. Check the compartments and ensure they are empty of valuables — the transporter may not replace lost or stolen items.

2. Clean Your Car

Keep your classic car clean at all times, especially before transportation. A thorough cleaning may reveal dents and scratches that you can document before shipping your car. An interior detail also helps you find items hidden inside that you still need to empty out.

3. Take Photos and Video of Your Vehicle

Take quality pictures and video of your vehicle to confirm the state of your car before departure. The images don’t have to be professional — using your phone’s camera is fine. Just make sure they’re quality enough to capture what you want to see, like any scratches. These pictures will help in case you notice any issues after your car has been delivered.

4. Turn on Your Vehicle

Start your classic car and keep the engine running for some time before shipping it. There are various reasons for this:

• You can confirm whether there are any mechanical or electrical issues before handing it over to the transporter.
• Transporting the vehicle could take a while, and classic cars are more efficient when often driven, so give it one more run.
• Running the car can help save your battery and avoid mechanical failures.

5. Conduct a Maintenance Check

Whether or not you notice any odd sounds when running your classic, you should conduct a final maintenance check before shipping it off. You might even consider taking it to a professional so you don’t have to worry about scouting a mechanic in your new location right away. Get paperwork from your mechanic as evidence in case anything is wrong with your car once it reaches its destination.

6. Don’t Fill the Tank

The general recommendation is to have a quarter of a tank when shipping your car. It’ll need some gas to get you to the transporter’s headquarters and to be moved on and off the transport. But more gas means more weight, and if you’re charged by how heavy the car is, you’ll want to keep things light.

Is It Better to Ship a Car Open or Enclosed?

You can ship your vehicle by open or enclosed transport. Open carriers are common — they leave your car uncovered during the journey. Closed carriers cover your vehicle from departure to the destination.

Choosing either an open or closed transport mode determines the cost. Open carriers are economical, but they expose your vehicle to the environment. An enclosed carrier may be more suitable for a classic car.

Some closed carriers have added features like hydraulic lift gates, drop floors, climate control and safety straps. The transporter straps down the car to keep it stabilized. It’s also covered, providing extra protection. Enclosed shipping options protect your vehicle from dirt, harsh weather conditions, debris and human contact from outside. Owners of classic, vintage and luxury cars usually prefer enclosed transport.

3 Tips for Transporting Your Car

When the car is prepped and ready for transport, consider these additional tips to ensure your vehicle is secure:

1. Choose an Experienced Shipping Company

Place your classic car in the hands of people you can trust. You might work with a transportation company you have previously worked with and had a good experience with.

If this is your first time shipping your classic car, you may ask for recommendations from friends, family or other trusted and experienced people. Research on the internet and visit the shipping company’s office if possible. Speak to them and gather relevant information, from experience to pricing. In short, try to find an auto transport company that cares about your vehicle as much as you do. Using an auto transporter that specializes in shipping classic cars is best.

2. Make Sure the Auto Transporter Has Insurance

Classic cars are gems, and you want yours to be as protected as possible. Insurance is one of the best ways to protect your classic. Ensure the company you’re shipping with is insured and confirm whether their insurance covers your car or the kind of service you require. Also, verify the level of insurance coverage, including the amount you can claim. The transporter’s insurance coverage differs from your traditional insurance on your vehicle.

3. Confirm Relevant Details Ahead of Time

There may be vital paperwork and other essential information you must obtain and review before your classic departs from your possession. It’s advisable to confirm them early. This buys you time to confer with experts where necessary. If you require any changes, there’ll be sufficient time to do that. You have time to negotiate and agree on the additional service you desire. It’s also essential to book the transportation company in advance after you’ve conducted the necessary research.

Prepare Your Car for Shipment With Top Flight Automotive

Classic cars are priceless assets — they represent class and excellence. It’s best to ship classic vehicles, especially when traveling long distances. Auto transportation offers a safe, secure and reliable means of transportation. It’s essential to check and prepare your classic for shipment for a smooth traveling experience.

Top Flight Automotive is the home of classic and vintage vehicle parts. We offer high-quality parts and accessories, from restoration to performance. Our world-class professional team has over 175 years of combined experience in the automotive industry.

Browse parts by make and model and get your car ready for transport!