Tips For Shipping a Classic Car

Tips For Shipping a Classic Car

Classic cars are considered priceless possessions to their  owners and should be treated as such. If you’re in need of transport for your classic or vintage vehicle for a car show, purchase or you are simply relocating, you may be wondering how to ensure that it arrives at its final destination safely. We’ve rounded up the tops tips for shipping a classic car and what to expect in the process. 

Consider Using an Enclosed Carrier 

If you need to ship a classic car, an enclosed auto carrier is the best type of auto transport. It will ensure that your car is safe from debris on the road, unpredictable weather considers, and other natural elements that can cause damage to your car using an open carrier. You’ll be able to have peace of mind that it arrives at its final destination in the same condition as when it was picked up. 

Prepare the Proper Documentation

There are two essential pieces of documentation that you’ll need to have when you plan to ship a classic car domestically. 

  1. Bill of Lading (BOL): The inspection and invoice for the car shipment that provides details about the condition of the vehicle when it’s picked up and dropped off at its final destination. 
  2. Insurance Coverage: Auto shipping companies require every car they ship to have insurance coverage for body damage while the vehicle is in their possession. We strongly suggest all shippers to keep their auto insurance active during the car’s transport in the unlikely event of body damage. 

Non-running Classic Cars

Although it’s not ideal to ship a non-running vehicle, it is possible. There are a few things you must do to prepare to ship a non-running classic car to ensure a smooth process. 

  • Disclose the condition of your vehicle upfront
  • Schedule transport for your non-running car early
  • Plan to pay a premium if your car doesn’t run 
  • Your vehicle must be able to roll and steer so the auto carrier driver can load it onto the transport trailer. 

Metti International: Your Trusted Auto Broker 

We use our experience and expertise to provide exceptional service, making it easy to find the best auto transport possible for your classic car.  

As a two-time finalist for the “Torch Award Finalist” by the Better Business Bureau for Ethics (BBB), it’s proof that we do everything by the book, provide our customers with exceptional service, and go out of our way to provide you with an exceptional experience. 

Call Metti International today for a free quote at 866.620.1776!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Most major credit cards, postal money orders and cashiers checks are acceptable forms of payment.

As with most transport services, a deposit is generally required when placing an order. Deposits range from 10-25 % of the total shipping cost. The remaining balance will be due upon delivery.

Most auto transport companies accept cash, certified checks, and postal money orders.

Coast to coast trips usually takes between 10-14 days. Shorter trips ranges from 3-7 days, depending on the actual distance. Some factors may delay a trip, including traffic, weather, and truck breakdowns.

Yes, we request you, or a designated person, be present upon pick up of your vehicle. For your safety and your vehicle’s safety, an inspection is performed and a bill of lading must be signed that serves as proof of delivery.

The easiest way to ship an inoperable vehicle is to let us know when requesting a vehicle transport quote. There will be an additional charge, plus loading and unloading charges to your quote, if we are not informed of the vehicle’s condition prior to quoting.

Auto carriers are not licensed to carry house goods or personal items, these goods and items are not covered by the carriers insurance. Any damage to your vehicle due to household goods shifting or breaking is also not covered. Personal belongings left in the vehicle, are shipped strictly at the owners risk. Carriers will not inventory any belongings left in the vehicle and will assume no responsibility.

Your car is insured for the Blue Book value the entire time it is on the truck. Clearly listed on your Shipping Order, Agreement and Bill of Lading are occurrences not covered. At the time of pick up, a condition report is filled out and signed by both the person turning the car over and the truck driver and you are given a copy.

Upon delivery of your vehicle, this same report is presented. You should compare the condition of the vehicle to the report thoroughly at that time. If you feel damage has occurred to your vehicle during delivery, you must note it on the report before you sign it and the driver leaves. Damage done in transit does not relieve the shipper of paying for transport service performed. Claims will be handled by the vehicle carrier and insurance companies.

Metti International offers door-to-door auto transport service where possible. However, there are instances that we cannot collect/deliver directly to the door due to the size of our auto carrier’s trucks. The size of your street may prohibit direct delivery to your door. Also, some towns and cities do not allow trucks on their residential streets. If the carrier cannot get to your door, he will deliver your vehicle to the next most convenient accessible location, such as the nearest major crossing street, a shopping mall or supermarket.

Please have a no more than 1/4 tank of fuel, remove all personal items from your vehicle and have it washed and cleaned so that the ensuing inspection is easily performed. If it is a convertible, T-top, sunroof, etc. make sure all openings are closed and prepared for changing weather. You can find additional tips on how to prepare your car for transport here.