Proper preparation can be the difference between a smooth experience and potential headaches when it comes to long-distance towing. Many issues car owners experience after towing are often preventable with simple preparatory steps. Whether you're planning to move your car across the state or the country, preparing your vehicle can help ensure it arrives at its destination in the same condition it left. Here are our 8 step pre-transportation checklist to safeguard your vehicle during transit.
Disable The Alarm
The first step in preparing your car for towing is to turn off any alarms. Car alarms can be triggered by motion or jostling occurring naturally during transport, leading to unnecessary noise and drained batteries. Ensure your vehicle's alarm system is fully deactivated before loading onto the tow truck.
Check For & Address Fluid Leaks
Any fluid leaks, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, or transmission fluid leaks, should be addressed before transportation to avoid creating a hazard during the move. Not only can these cause damage to the transport equipment, but they can also drip onto vehicles towed below or beside yours on a multi-car trailer.
Inflate The Tires
Proper tire inflation is crucial during the towing process. Correctly inflated tires help maintain the stability and safety of your vehicle while it is being loaded, transported, and unloaded. Check your vehicle's manual for the recommended tire pressure and adjust as necessary.
Remove Personal & Valuable Items
Before towing, remove all personal belongings, especially those that are fragile or valuable. These items can become projectiles or get damaged during transit. Most towing services will not cover damages to personal items left inside the vehicle, so taking them out is safer.
Minimize The Weight
To reduce the risk of damage and to comply with weight restrictions for the towing equipment, minimize the weight of your vehicle by keeping only about a quarter tank of gas. A full tank adds considerable weight, which is unnecessary for towing purposes.
Wash The Vehicle
It is counterintuitive to wash your car before being transported on an open trailer through various weather conditions, but there is a good reason for it. Washing your vehicle allows you to thoroughly inspect the exterior for any existing dents, scratches, or dings. It's much easier to spot and document these issues on a clean car than one covered in dirt and grime.
Document The Condition
Take photos of your vehicle from various angles, documenting all existing damage or marks. These photos serve as a record of your vehicle's condition before towing and can be crucial in the event of any claims for damages caused during transportation.
Lock The Car
Once all items have been removed and everything is checked, ensure that all doors, windows, and the trunk are securely locked. This secures your vehicle and prevents parts from opening during transport, which could lead to damage or loss.
Conclusion
Preparing your vehicle for towing can take a little bit of time, but it is a crucial step to ensure the safety and security of your vehicle during transport. By following these steps, you can rest assured that you've done everything possible to protect the car ahead of its journey. Remember that our team is here to assist you if you require towing services. We treat every vehicle with the utmost care and professionalism, ensuring it arrives safely and in excellent condition at its destination.
