How to Ship a Car for the First Time: A Simple Guide for New Shippers

For many people, figuring out how to ship a car for the first time can feel confusing or even stressful. At Shermez Logistics, we understand the questions that come up: How do I prepare my car? What happens if something goes wrong? How do I protect my vehicle?

First-time shippers are often nervous or overwhelmed. Shipping a car for the first time can feel intimidating. What if something goes wrong? How do I know I'm choosing the right company? At Shermez Logistics, we get these concerns - and we're here to walk you through every step. Whether you’re relocating, purchasing a vehicle, or moving a loved one’s car, this guide walks you through each step to make sure your auto transport experience is smooth, safe, and stress-free.

Section 1: Understand Your Transport Type

Before anything else, know which type of transport you're booking:

• Open Carrier: The most common method. Affordable, reliable, and safe for most vehicles.

• Enclosed Carrier: Offers full protection from weather and road debris. Ideal for luxury, exotic, or high-value vehicles.

👉 At Shermez, we help you select the right option based on your car, distance, and timing needs.

Section 2: Document Your Vehicle Condition

• Thoroughly wash your car before pickup (scratches & dents are easier to spot).

• Take clear photos from multiple angles, including close-ups of any existing damage.

• Note your odometer reading.

• Remove any personal items from the vehicle (transport companies typically aren’t liable for them).

👉 This documentation protects you and creates a clear record for insurance purposes.

Section 3: Check Fluids & Battery

• Verify that fluids are at proper levels (especially oil, coolant, and brake fluid).

• Repair or disclose any leaks.

• Fully charge the battery before pickup.

👉 A properly prepared car helps prevent loading/unloading delays.

Section 4: Secure Loose Parts & Remove Extras

• Remove or secure spoilers, roof racks, bike carriers, antennas, or specialty accessories.

• Disable any alarm systems.

• Retract mirrors where possible.

👉 This reduces the risk of accidental damage during transport.

Section 5: Final Day Checklist

• Leave your gas tank about 1/4 full (light enough for transport but enough to load/unload).

• Provide your transporter with correct keys, contact information, and any special instructions.

• Confirm your pickup and delivery locations.

  
  

👉 At Shermez, our drivers communicate directly so you're never guessing where your car is.

Section 6: What Happens During Transport

Most first-time shippers feel like their car disappears into a black hole once it's loaded. Here's what actually happens with us:

• Upon Pickup: Our driver walks around your vehicle with you, documenting every detail on the Bill of Lading. We don't rush this - first-time shippers often spot things they missed during prep, and we handle it right then. You'll get a photo of your car loaded on the truck.

• During Transit: Here's where we're different: You get actual updates. If there's a delay, route change, or even just a driver swap, we call you directly. No wondering, no checking generic tracking systems that haven't updated in 3 days.

• Real Example: When weather delayed a shipment in Colorado last month, we called the customer that morning - not when they called us asking where their car was.

• Upon Delivery: Same thorough inspection, but in reverse. We compare your car's condition to pickup photos and address any concerns immediately - not through a claims process weeks later.

  
  

👉 Bottom Line: We treat nervous first-timers like they're shipping their grandmother's car. Over-communication beats under-communication every time.

Section 7: Understanding Cost-Addressing Common Concerns

First-timers often have no idea if they'll pay $500 or $5,000. Even a range would help: "Most cross-country transports run $1,000-$1,500 depending on distance and vehicle type."

Section 8: Our Commitment

At Shermez Logistics, we don’t just move cars — we move people’s peace of mind. We've helped many first-time shippers, from college students to military families relocations to online car buyers, probate situations, and busy professionals who simply want their vehicle handled with care and integrity.

Every customer deserves a partner who explains the process and delivers exactly what was promised.

Closing Call-to-Action:

If you have more questions or want a free quote, contact our Shermez team anytime. We’re here to guide you step-by-step.

👉 Request a No-Pressure Consultation

www.shermezlogistics.com