Common Mistakes to Avoid When Transporting Classic Vehicles

1. What Exactly Is a Classic Vehicle?
2. Why Ship a Classic Car?
3. Things You Should Never Do When You Ship a Luxury Car
4. Using a New and Inexperienced Shipper
5. Focusing on Cost
6. Skimping on Shipping Preparation
7. Slipping in Personal Items
8. Not Doing the Research
9. Skimping on Insurance
10. Driving the Car Yourself
11. Using Open Auto Transport
12. Not Having All the Necessary Documents
13. Failing to Record Damage
14. Important Steps for Successfully Shipping a Classic Vehicle
15. Conclusion

When it comes to transporting classic vehicles, there are a number of mistakes that are commonly made.

Whether moving your car across the country or just taking it to a show, it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure that your vehicle arrives safely and in the same condition as when it left.

This article will discuss some of the most common mistakes people make when transporting classic vehicles and how to avoid them.

What Exactly Is a Classic Vehicle?

A classic car is an older 'vintage' vehicle, usually around 25 years or older. Classic cars are of historical interest, are collectible, and with owners who have spent a great deal of time restoring them.

Classic cars are generally considered valuable because of the following:

1. Rarity: Classic cars that are rare or hard to find can be more valuable because they are not as readily available as newer models.
2. Condition: Classic cars in good condition and protected from damage are far more valuable than those in poor condition.
3. Historical significance: Some classic cars are valuable because of their historical significance, such as being owned by a famous person or used in a famous event.
4. Popularity: Classic cars that are popular or in demand among collectors can also be more valuable.
5. Emotional value: For some people, classic cars hold a lot of emotional value, such as sentimental memories or a connection to a specific moment in time. This emotional value can also contribute to their worth.

Classic cars are investments, and it is paramount to protect them during transportation.

Why Ship a Classic Car?

Hiring an auto transport company to ship your classic car is usually the safest and most cost-effective way to move your automobile investment without damaging it.

Whether moving your car across the country or just taking it to a show, a shipping company can provide you with the peace of mind that your vehicle will arrive safely and in the same condition as when it left.

The shipping process also eliminates the need to drive long distances, adding kilometers to the clock and wear and tear to the vehicle itself.

Things You Should Never Do When You Ship a Luxury Car

Be careful when transporting a collectible car, as there are specific practices to avoid.

Classic cars are valuable investments, and you want to make sure your vehicle is completely secure and protected in transit. Unfortunately, the following mistakes are commonly made by rookie classic car investors:

Using a New and Inexperienced Shipper

An inexperienced auto transport service may not have the proper equipment or knowledge to transport your vehicle safely. This can result in damage to or loss of your classic car.

Focusing on Cost

Focusing on cost when shipping a classic car can be a mistake.

While it is important to consider the cost of shipping, it is also important to make sure that you are getting quality service and to pay a bit more for experience and expertise.

Skimping on Shipping Preparation

Skimping on shipping preparation is a common mistake when getting your vehicle transported by someone else.

However, it's your responsibility to prepare the car for shipment, including checking the fluids and tire pressure, ensuring all windows and doors are closed and locked, disconnecting accessories, and removing loose items.

Slipping in Personal Items

Sneaking in personal items is another common mistake. While it may seem convenient or efficient to include personal items to save on shipping costs, it can be dangerous and cause damage to your car.

Not Doing the Research

Not doing your research is a common mistake before transporting any vehicle. In order to find a reputable shipper with experience in handling classic cars, you'll need to search the auto transport industry for one.

Make sure you read reviews, ask for the opinions of others, and get quotes from other companies before making a decision.

It is also important to make sure that the company you choose has the proper insurance coverage for a classic vehicle.

Skimping on Insurance

Classic automobile insurance is different from regular car insurance. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the shipping company you choose has the proper insurance policy for your type of vehicle in case of damage during transport.

Ask about the type and amount of coverage offered, as well as any additional fees associated with it.

Driving the Car Yourself

This is something many people do to save on costs. However, not only does it add mileage and wear to the vehicle, but it also puts you at risk of an accident or breakdown.

Shipping a valuable car is the safest and most reliable way to get it from one place to another.

Using Open Auto Transport

Open auto transport is a popular method of transport for shipping classic cars, but it can be risky. Open auto transport exposes your vehicle to the elements and other potential hazards, such as road debris or theft.

If you choose open auto transport, make sure that the company you use has a good reputation and offers adequate insurance coverage for the hazards posed by this type of transport.

Not Having All the Necessary Documents

It is important to collect and store all the necessary paperwork and documentation and have it available before shipping your car.

This includes all of the car appraisal documentation for your car (these documents record the history and value of your vehicle.

Other papers include proof of ownership, registration, and insurance. Without these documents, the shipper may not be able to insure your vehicle properly or may charge additional fees for the extra paperwork.

Failing to Record Damage

Failing to record damage is another common error when transporting classic vehicles. Before the car is shipped, it's important to record any existing damage and even note it in writing.

These notes will help you identify new damage caused by the shipper during transport.

Important Steps for Successfully Shipping a Classic Vehicle

Important Steps for Successfully Shipping a Classic Vehicle

1. Research: find a reputable car shipping company experienced in moving classic cars
2. Insurance: check for proper insurance coverage for a classic vehicle.
3. Documentation: collect all the required paperwork and documentation
4. Damage: record existing damage
5. Preparation: prepare the vehicle for transport
6. Tracking: stay in touch and track the shipment
7. Delivery: inspect the vehicle upon delivery

Conclusion

Transporting a classic vehicle can be daunting, but with the right preparation and research, it can be done safely and successfully. Avoiding these most common shipping errors is important.

At a1autotransport.com, we have the experience and expertise to help you transport your classic vehicle safely and securely. Contact our experienced and skilled crew today for more information.