Why Cleaning Your Car Before Shipping is Important

Facilitates Thorough Inspection

Cleaning your car before shipping is more important than you think. You may think it gets dirty anyway, which would actually be true. However, there is much more important reason to have your car have at least a basic wash.

A cleaner vehicle allows for a clear inspection of any existing scratches or dents, or anything that appears to be new at delivery. Both the owner and the shipping carrier can accurately assess the car's condition. Documenting all this with photographs and notes helps prevent disputes about damage during that may have occurred or not occurred as a result of the transport. Too dirty of a car could hide an existing dent or scratch, while conversely if a vehicle is very dirty, a scratch or dent may not be easy to spot.

Clean Your Car Before Shipment to Prevent Damage Disputes

Concerns about vehicle damage during shipping are common. A clean car makes it easier to verify its condition before transport. Visible marks and dents can be recorded precisely, aiding in the resolution of any claims of damage at delivery.

Expert Tips for Cleaning Your Car

Interior Cleaning

The interior of your car might not face the elements, but it’s still prone to wear and tear. Regular cleaning prevents cracking, fading, and peeling of surfaces like seats and dashboards. Here are some tips:

• Vacuum the seats: Remove dirt and crumbs, using a brush for hard-to-reach areas.
• Use appropriate cleaning solutions: Test cleaners on small spots before use. Avoid bleach or ammonia on leather.
• Condition leather seats: Revitalize leather with a conditioner and allow it to rest in the shade to avoid UV exposure.
• Declutter and organize: Remove trash and unnecessary items from under seats and the trunk. Keep essentials neatly organized but remove personal belongings before shipping.

Exterior Cleaning

Cleaning your car’s exterior can be more challenging but equally important. Start with the tires and wheels:

1. Clean one tire at a time to prevent water spots.
2. Use proper brushes for different surfaces to avoid scratching.
3. Polish and wax your wheels to protect them from grime.

Next, focus on the body:

• Park in the shade to prevent water spots during washing.
• Rinse the car first to remove loose dirt.
• Use a two-bucket method—one for soapy water, another for rinsing.
• Wash from top to bottom to avoid transferring dirt to cleaner areas.
• Dry with a microfiber cloth to prevent streaks and water spots.

For extra care, consider using a clay bar to remove contaminants and apply a protective wax to enhance shine and durability.

Cleaning Headlights and Grilles

• Headlights: Use toothpaste or a restoration kit to remove haze and improve clarity.
• Bug removal: Soften debris with dryer sheets, WD-40, or commercial sprays, but avoid spraying directly onto painted surfaces.

Further Protecting Your Car During Transit

Since a cover can fly off, there are other things you can do to protect your car during transport. Shipping your car on an open trailer exposes it to the possibility of minor scratches caused by road debris. While the risk is minimal, you can take extra precautions. Applying a graphene or ceramic paint coating adds a protective layer, safeguarding your car from small abrasions and harmful UV rays.

Other Benefits of Keeping Your Car Clean Beyond Shipping

Protects the Vehicle’s Finish

Regularly cleaning your car is beneficial beyond the shipping process. It protects the vehicle from damage caused by dirt, bugs, bird droppings, and salt, which can harm the paint over time. Keeping the car clean preserves its appearance and prevents costly repairs.

Enhances Resale Value and Safety

A well-maintained, clean car is more attractive to potential buyers, potentially increasing its resale value. Additionally, a clean vehicle ensures that windows, mirrors, and lights are unobstructed, promoting safer driving conditions.

Additional Preparations for Car Shipping

Basic Maintenance Tasks

In addition to cleaning, perform basic maintenance before shipping your car. Ensure the battery is charged and the fuel tank is only a quarter full to prevent issues during transport. Check tire pressure and fluid levels to confirm the vehicle is in good working order.

Securing and Removing Items

Before shipping, secure or remove any detachable parts, such as antennas or roof racks. Remove all personal items from the car to minimize the risk of loss or theft. Deactivate toll tags and parking passes to avoid unnecessary charges.

By adhering to these guidelines, car owners can ensure their vehicle is well-prepared for shipping. Cleaning the car before transport is a vital step in maintaining its condition and ensuring a smooth shipping experience.