When you are looking at moving your car long distances, be it interstate or across Australia, preparation ensures everything goes smoothly. Unlike short-distance local tows, long-car transport requires specialized care to get your car safely and with minimum hassle. At Unicorn Car Transport Australia, what we believe in is the fact that the better you prepare, the better your towing experience will be.
Below are the step-by-step instructions to get your car ready for long-distance towing.
1. Clean Your Car Correctly
Before the car you’ve sold is picked up, clean the exterior and the interior. It will assist twice:
- Makes inspection easier – Scratches, dents, or paint flakes can be obscured by dirt and grime. Cleaning makes inspection and documentation easier when disclosing the condition of your automobile before shipping.
- Fresh Start When You Arrive – After a long drive, you’ll enjoy having your car available to drive without requiring a thorough clean.
2. Note the Current Status
Take good photos of the vehicle from all sides and close-up shots of already present scratches, dents, or other blemishes before you surrender the car. This photo evidence acts as documentation of the pre-transport condition of your car and provides reassurance in the event of a future dispute.
You should also record the mileage of the car and bring a photocopy of your service record with you.
3. Remove Personal Belongings
Even though it would be convenient to bring the journey as an opportunity to move personal items, most towing and transport companies do not recommend leaving articles in the truck. Luggage places too much strain on the truck while towing and personal items are not insured by most transport policies.
Removing valuables and unwanted items reduces the car load and lessens the damages when the car is loaded, moved, and unloaded.
4. Fluid Leaks Check
Inspect your car for oil, coolant, brake fluid, or transmission leaks. Leaks can be safety hazards during transport and may also delay pickup of your car. If you notice a leak, get it repaired before pickup day.
5. Top Up Essential Fluids and Battery
For long-distance towing, the automobile does not necessarily have to be motored at all, but should be mechanically good to drive in the event it must be relocated during the towing process. Ensure that:
- The coolant and the brake fluid are refilled.
- The battery is fully charged and securely tightened.
- The tyres are properly inflated (not overinflated).
This prevents undesired hold-ups and enables your car to be moved when the occasion calls for it.
6. Fasten or Remove Loose Components
Outward additions such as roof racks, spoilers, antennas, and fog lights must be removed or securely affixed. Loose items may fall off and get damaged while you’re towing them, and more so on lengthy distances because the movement and vibration will be constant.
If you have a convertible-top automobile, be sure to put the top up securely to prevent wind or weather-related damage.
7. Reduce Fuel Levels
For safety reasons, most towing companies recommend having only about a quarter tank of fuel in the car. This amount is sufficient for loading and unloading while also reducing the car’s overall weight during transport. A lighter car means safer and more efficient towing.
8. Disable Alarms and Security Systems
Car alarms while moving about can be distracting and potentially drain the battery. Switch off or disable your alarm and let your towing company know if you have a custom security system installed on your auto that could affect handling.
9. Ready Keys and Documents
Bring a full complement of keys that should include keys to the ignition, boot, and locking wheel nuts if applicable. Ensure you carry your registration document, insurance forms, and towing agreement handy. It saves time and avoids last-minute panic to have paperwork tidied up.
10. Communicate Special Requirements
If you’ve got a specialty car—e.g., low clearance, custom exhaust, or a lowered ride—let the moving company know in advance. This allows them the opportunity to bring the right equipment and offer extra caution in order to move the car safely.
Final Thoughts
It takes work to get your car ready for long-distance towing, but the reward is a safer, smoother, and more dependable transport experience. Cleaning the car, inspection, and securing the car reassures you and your towing service that the car will be delivered to the destination in the condition it leaves.
At Unicorn Car Transport Australia, hassle-free car transport anywhere in the country is our specialty. By doing the following steps prior to pickup for your car, you can rest assured knowing your automobile is thoroughly ready for the road ahead.
