Classic cars are not just vehicles; they hold both financial and sentimental value for their owners. Often, these automobiles are the result of years of careful restoration and preservation. Consequently, transporting them securely is crucial. Whether you’re moving house, participating in a vintage car show or considering long-term storage, there will likely come a time when your classic automobile needs to be transported.
Transporting a classic car is complex and comes with its own unique set of challenges compared to shipping a modern vehicle. It takes more than simply hiring an auto transport company; several elements need to be seriously considered in the needs of your specific car. Let’s get started on 5 ways you can protect your prized possession during transportation.
1. Understand the types of transport services
There are several types of transport services available for classic car owners looking to move their beloved cars. These include open trailer transport, which is an economical but less protected option; your car will share trailer space with other vehicles and be subject to weather and road debris. Enclosed trailer transport offers a safer alternative as your vehicle will be housed within a fully covered trailer, affording it protection from external elements.
Single-vehicle transport provides the utmost care, allowing your classic car to enjoy its own private space on a smaller trailer. For those owning high-value automobiles, luxury services offered by specialized companies include enclosed transportation with additional amenities like climate-controlled interiors or hydraulic lift gates for safe loading and unloading.
So if you’re looking to transport your cars, make sure you choose an Auto Transport service that doesn’t just do the job but also considers the sentimental and monetary value of your vehicle.
2. Evaluating Insurance Coverage Specifics
When transporting a classic car, understanding and evaluating the insurance coverage of your selected transport service is crucial. Although all reputable auto transport companies should provide basic insurance coverage in their package, you need to verify exactly what this covers.
This includes asking about their liability for potential damages during transit and what circumstances are excluded from the coverage. Insist on seeing a copy of their insurance policy; don’t just take their word for it.
Sometimes, the provided standard coverage might not be sufficient for your precious vintage vehicle. If this is the case, ask if the company offers higher levels of insurance at an additional fee to fully cover your classic car’s value in unforeseen circumstances like accidents or natural disasters.
Alternatively, depending on your existing auto insurance policy, you may also have options available to cover the transportation of your classic car through them as well. Check with your current provider to ensure that you explore all possibilities for comprehensive coverage.
3. Preparing Your Vehicle for Transport
Effective preparation is paramount for ensuring safe transport of your classic car. Firstly, give the vehicle a thorough cleaning – a clean car makes it easier to spot any potential damage or scratches already on the vehicle. Document existing flaws with photographs and share them with the transport company before shipping, establishing an agreed record of the car’s current condition.
Inspecting and addressing mechanical issues is also vital. Make sure to check tire pressure, battery charge, fluid leaks, and fuel level – ideally it should be no more than a quarter tank full to reduce weight.
Lastly, secure or remove any loose components or accessories in the car’s interior and exterior that could become projectiles during transit. Remove personal belongings as they are often not covered by transport insurance.
4. Choosing the Right Transporter
When selecting a transporter for your classic car, don’t just consider price. Reputation and experience in dealing with classic cars should be high on your list of priorities. Look for transport companies that specialize in moving vintage vehicles – they’ll likely have the right equipment, knowledge, and skills to handle your pride and joy properly.
Online reviews and testimonials can offer invaluable insights into the company’s track record. Pay attention to how past clients rate their handling of automobiles, punctuality, communication, and solving issues if they arise.
Reach out to classic car communities online or offline for their recommendations. They may have positive experiences to share or provide valuable advice on transporters to avoid.
Remember – cheapest doesn’t always mean best; choosing a reliable company renowned for providing excellent care during transport is crucial in ensuring your valuable vehicle arrives safely at its destination.
5. Benefits of Enclosed Transportation
Enclosed transportation offers an extra level of protection for your classic car against harsh road and weather conditions during transport. Your vehicle will be thoroughly shielded from damaging factors such as dust, rocks, rain, snow and harmful UV rays that it would otherwise be exposed to in open trailer transport.
Using an enclosed trailer significantly reduces the risk of unexpected damage. Though enclosed services might come with a higher cost compared to their open counterparts, the investment can pay off in terms of the superior protection offered, especially considering the often-irreplaceable nature of many components on a classic car.
Concluding thoughts…
Ensuring the safe transport of a classic car requires careful consideration. Whether it’s choosing the type of service, understanding insurance specifics, preparing the vehicle properly, selecting a reputable transporter or even opting for enclosed transportation for greater protection – every step matters greatly.
