Let’s be honest handing over the keys to your classic or luxury car is nerve-wracking. You aren’t just shipping a vehicle from A to B; you’re moving a serious investment, a piece of history, or maybe just the car you’ve dreamed of owning since you were a kid.
Whether you’re dealing with a vintage muscle car, a high-end European tourer, or a rare collectible, owners across Australia are getting pickier about who they let behind the wheel. And they should be.
That is exactly why picking the right transport partner matters, and why names like Unicorn Car Transport Australia keep popping up in conversation. If you are looking to move a classic and luxury car, here is the lowdown on what you actually need to know.
Why “Standard” Transport Doesn’t Cut It
Classic and luxury cars are high-maintenance—in the best way possible. They often have painfully low ground clearance, quirky mechanical components, or paint jobs that cost more than a standard sedan.
Throwing these on a standard tow truck or a crowded open carrier is asking for trouble. A specialized service is different because they offer:
- Enclosed carriers: Think of this as a mobile garage. It stops weather, stone chips, and highway grime from touching your paint.
- The Right Ramps: Standard ramps will scrape the front lip of a low car. Specialized haulers use hydraulic liftgates or extended ramps designed for low clearance.
- Drivers who “Get It”: You want a handler who knows how to drive a manual vintage gearbox or start a temperamental engine without flooding it.
The Big Debate: Open vs. Enclosed
This is usually the first question owners ask. Here is the simple breakdown:
Open Transport This is what you see on the highway carrying rows of daily drivers. It’s cheaper, and for a standard family SUV, it’s fine. But for a collectible? You’re exposing the car to rain, dust, rocks, and harsh sun.
Enclosed Transport If you care about the paint, this is the way to go. It offers floor-to-roof protection. No rocks, no rain, no prying eyes. For show cars, fresh restorations, or supercars, this isn’t just a luxury—it’s the only way to ensure the car arrives looking exactly how it left.
Getting Your Car Road-Ready
To make sure the handover goes smooth, here is a quick checklist:
- Be Camera Happy: Don’t just glance at the car. Take high-res photos and videos of every angle before it’s loaded. It keeps everyone honest.
- Clean it Out: Loose items inside the cabin can bounce around during transit and scuff the interior. Clear out the glovebox and the boot.
- Check the Fluids: You don’t need a full tank (it adds unnecessary weight), but keep it around a quarter tank. Make sure the battery is charged and tied down.
- Tuck in the Edges: Fold those mirrors in. If you have a classic with a loose antenna or a custom spoiler, secure them.
- Write a “Cheat Sheet”: Does your car have a hidden kill switch? A tricky immobiliser? Does the clutch bite high? Write it down for the driver.
Why We Like Unicorn Car Transport Australia
Owners of high-end cars need more than a truck driver; they need a partner who understands the emotional attachment to the vehicle.
Unicorn Car Transport Australia stands out because they seem to understand the assignment. They use fully enclosed, modern carriers and have the specific equipment needed for wide or low vehicles. But more importantly, they offer white-glove handling. They keep you in the loop with real-time updates so you aren’t left wondering where your car is.
They treat the car like it’s their own, which is really all an owner can ask for.
A Quick Note on Insurance
Never assume. Any reputable transporter will have insurance, but you need to ask the specific questions:
- What is the coverage limit?
- Are there exclusions?
- What is the process if a scratch happens?
It’s the boring part of the process, but it’s the only way to protect your wallet if the unthinkable happens.
The Bottom Line
Transporting a dream car requires trust. Don’t just go with the lowest bidder. By choosing a dedicated, specialist service like Unicorn Car Transport Australia, you can sleep a little easier knowing your vehicle is in professional hands. With the right prep and the right team, the journey will be just as smooth as the drive itself.
