Frozen roadways, huge piles of snow, ice slicks, and blizzards, may throw a wrench while transporting your vehicle. Well, if you’ve decided to ship your car or truck in the winters but aren’t prepared, it may take a toll on your vehicle, finances and carrier.
To help you prevent this, we’ve compiled some tips for a hassle-free winter vehicle transport-
Have Alternative Pick Up Plans For Your Vehicle
It is one of the most important tips that apply to the different aspects of vehicle shipping. This tip isn’t about preparing your vehicle but having flexible plans for its transportation. Here is what we recommend:
Consider The Logistics Of The Situation
While choosing a carrier pick up for your vehicle, it is crucial to consider the logistics of the situation. Don’t make plans based on the existing weather conditions only, but also in terms of what the weather could be.
So, it is better to have car shipping alternatives beforehand so that you don’t have to scramble for your cell phone if the unexpected weather conditions hit.
Plan Ahead For Unforeseen Delays
Unexpected delays may happen while shipping you vehicle in any season, but winter weather can sometimes become a threat. The pickup and delivery locations may be well-maintained for the worst weather, but it doesn’t mean that every stretch of the road is also prepared for the same.
Be patient as a rush job in extreme weather conditions may cause costly damages. The carriers may need to take significant detours to ship a car safely to the destination.
Put An Extra Thought In Pick Up And Delivery Locations
When it comes to transporting your vehicle in winter, extra flexibility is required. The unpredictable weather can affect the vehicle’s mobility, as well as maneuverability. Also, some areas may be impossible for the carriers to reach. So, it is necessary to have flexible plans for shipping your vehicle.
Ask The Car Shipper About Fuel Tank
Many of the auto transport companies may ask you to hand the vehicle in with less than half a tank of fuel. Know what their policy is so that you don’t have to pay extra for the weight of tank full of fuel.
Make Sure There Is Plenty Of Antifreeze In The Vehicle
Now that your vehicle is hitching a ride to its new destination, you have to take some measures to make sure that it’s ready for the cold. Check the coolant to be sure that is enough antifreeze in the system. Also, check if the gas is full to the level as recommended by your carrier.
Check The Tire Tread And Pressure
Before having your vehicle picked up, it is necessary to check if the tires are in shape. Poor tire pressure prevents the tires from holding air the way they should. When the cold air contracts or the temperature dips, you may need to pump some air. Also, if the tires are worn down, buy a pair of winter tires in Hamilton to get solid traction on the road in the extreme weather conditions.
Shop Around For Auto Transport Quotes
If you’ve decided to ship your vehicle in the winters, get prepared for the wait times and high prices. The reason is that the carriers face a hard time while shipping the vehicles in the areas that get covered with snow, for example, northern states in the US.
Compare the quotes of the shipping companies and check their background by reading the online reviews. Don’t get fooled with the carriers that provide low quotes trying to lure the customers. They may push up the price after you hand over your car to them.
Go for the registered company that offers a credible service. Ask about their policies, insurance plans, and what payment arrangements you can make.
Conclusion
With these things in mind, preparing your vehicle for shipping in winters doesn’t have to be a headache. These preliminary actions help you rest assured that your vehicle is delivered at the new location without any hitch!
