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The Ultimate Checklist for Safe Car Shipping During the Coronavirus Pandemic

Amid the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, safe car shipping is a unique challenge for many people. Whether you’re moving across the country or need to transport your vehicle for another reason, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure the process is as safe and efficient as possible. That’s where this ultimate checklist comes in. 

With years of experience in the auto transport industry, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the new realities of car shipping in the age of COVID-19. From choosing a reputable carrier to properly sanitizing your vehicle before and after transport, our checklist covers all the key steps you need to take to protect yourself and your car during this challenging time. So whether you’re a seasoned car owner or a first-time shipper, read on to discover how to make your car shipping experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Understanding the challenges of safe car shipping during the pandemic

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it many challenges for the auto transport industry. With travel restrictions in place and social distancing guidelines to follow, car shipping has become more complicated than ever before. Carriers are having to adapt to the new realities of the pandemic, which means taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of their drivers and customers. As a result, the cost of shipping a car has also gone up in some cases.

One of the biggest challenges of car shipping during the pandemic is the uncertainty around delivery times. With many carriers experiencing delays or disruptions, it’s essential to prepare for the possibility of your car arriving later than expected. It’s also vital to choose a reputable carrier that has experience navigating these challenges and can provide you with updates on the status of your shipment.

Finally, it’s essential to be aware of any travel restrictions or quarantine requirements that may be in place in your destination state. That will help you avoid any surprises or delays when your car arrives.

Researching safe car shipping companies

Choosing a reliable car shipping company is an essential step in ensuring your vehicle’s safe and efficient transport during the pandemic. With so many companies, figuring out where to start can take time. Here are some key factors to consider when researching car shipping companies:

  • Reputation: Look for companies with a strong industry reputation and positive reviews from past customers.
  • Experience: Choose a company that has been in business for several years and has experience shipping cars in various circumstances.
  • Safety protocols: Make sure the company has implemented additional safety protocols in response to the pandemic, such as providing drivers with personal protective equipment (PPE) and sanitizing vehicles before and after transport.
  • Insurance coverage: Verify that the company has adequate insurance coverage in case of damage or loss during transport.
  • Cost: Consider the cost of shipping your car, but don’t make it the only factor in your decision. The cheapest option may only sometimes be the best choice.

By taking the time to research and choose a reputable car shipping company, you can avoid many common pitfalls associated with car shipping during the pandemic.

Ensuring safety protocols are in place

In addition to researching reliable car shipping companies, it’s vital to ensure proper safety protocols are in place to protect you and the carrier during transport. Some of the critical safety measures that should be in place include:

  • Providing drivers with PPE, such as masks and gloves
  • Sanitizing vehicles before and after transport
  • Social distancing during pickup and delivery
  • Offering contactless delivery options

Make sure to ask your chosen carrier what specific safety measures they have implemented and how they plan to ensure the safe transport of your vehicle during the pandemic.

Preparing your car for safe shipping

Before your car is picked up for transport, it’s essential to prepare it to ensure a safe and damage-free journey properly. Here are some key steps to take:

  • Remove any personal items from the car, including electronics and valuables
  • Inspect the vehicle for any pre-existing damage and document it with photos
  • Remove any loose items, such as floor mats that could shift during transport
  • Secure any add-ons, such as bike racks or spoilers
  • Ensure the car’s fuel tank is less than a quarter full

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your car is properly prepared for transport and reduce the risk of damage during transit.

Contactless delivery options

One of the biggest concerns for many people during the pandemic is the risk of exposure to the virus. To help address this concern, many car shipping companies are now offering contactless delivery options. With contactless delivery, the carrier will drop off your car without any physical interaction, minimizing the risk of exposure to the virus.

If you’re interested in contactless delivery, ask your chosen carrier if this option is available and what specific procedures they have to ensure safe and seamless delivery.

Insurance coverage during the pandemic

It’s vital to ensure that your car is properly insured during transport, especially during the pandemic when there are additional risks to consider. Most car shipping companies will have insurance coverage, but verifying that the coverage is adequate for your needs is essential.

Make sure to ask your chosen carrier about their insurance coverage and what specific circumstances are covered. Consider purchasing additional insurance coverage for added peace of mind.

Tracking your car shipment remotely

The Ultimate Checklist for Safe Car Shipping During the Coronavirus Pandemic

With many carriers experiencing delays or disruptions during the pandemic, it’s essential to be able to track your shipment remotely. Fortunately, most car shipping companies now offer online tracking tools that allow you to monitor the status of your shipment in real time.

Make sure to ask your chosen carrier what specific tracking tools are available and how to access them.

Cleaning and disinfecting your car upon delivery

When your car arrives at its destination, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure that it’s been properly sanitized and disinfected. Here are some key steps to take:

  • Wipe down all surfaces with disinfectant wipes or spray
  • Use a disinfectant fogger to sanitize the interior of the car
  • Allow the car to air out for several hours before entering

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your car is safe to drive and minimize the risk of exposure to the virus.

Final checklist for safe car shipping during the pandemic

To help ensure a safe and stress-free car shipping experience during the pandemic, here’s a final checklist of key steps to take:

  • Research reliable car shipping companies
  • Ensure safety protocols are in place
  • Prepare your car for shipping
  • Consider contactless delivery options
  • Verify insurance coverage
  • Track your shipment remotely
  • Clean and disinfect your vehicle upon delivery

By following these steps, you can ensure that your car shipping experience is as safe and efficient as possible during these challenging times.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 pandemic has created many challenges for the auto transport industry, but with the proper precautions and safety measures in place, it’s still possible to safely ship your car. By choosing a reliable car shipping company, properly preparing your car for transport, and taking extra precautions to ensure safety during pickup and delivery, you can help ensure a stress-free and successful car shipping experience. Remember to stay informed and up-to-date on the latest developments related to the pandemic, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your chosen carrier if you have any questions or concerns.

The Original Car Shipping Quote Calculator

Direct Express Auto Transport originated the instant car shipping quote calculator in 2004. It is still the best, most sophisticated, reliable tool available anywhere online. We offer three options that we call tiers of car shipping estimates. The standard rate is the cheapest car shipping quote, but it may take longer. Use it if you are patient. We recommend the expedited car shipping rate and have countless satisfied customers because the shipping process tends to go quicker. The rush rate is our highest level of car shipping service, and many customers are glad they went with that method.

auto transport tips, Car Shipping Quote Calculator