Classic Car Shipping: Protecting Your Investment
Owning a classic car is a unique experience. These prized vehicles carry not only monetary value but also sentimental value for many collectors. Whether it’s a vintage muscle car, a beautifully restored roadster, or a rare luxury vehicle from decades past, classic cars are valuable pieces of automotive history. When it comes time to transport your investment, ensuring that it arrives safely and securely is paramount. This is where professional classic car shipping services come in.
Shipping a classic car is not like moving a regular vehicle. It requires specialized care, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of the unique risks involved.
Why Classic Cars Require Special Handling
Classic cars differ from standard vehicles in several ways. For one, they’re often more fragile, and the parts—whether mechanical or cosmetic—may be harder to replace. Even a minor scratch can significantly diminish the value of a classic car, and mechanical damage can be costly to repair due to the scarcity of original parts.
Additionally, classic cars often have unique body shapes, lowered suspensions, or custom features that may not be compatible with standard vehicle shipping practices. These vehicles require a higher level of protection during transit, making it essential to use a specialized classic car shipping service.
Fragile Components and Limited Replacement Parts
One of the primary concerns when shipping a classic car is the fragility of its components. Older vehicles often have more delicate materials, such as chrome finishes, wooden accents, or hand-stitched interiors, which are far more susceptible to damage than their modern counterparts. Additionally, parts for classic cars may be rare or no longer in production, meaning that even minor damage can lead to a lengthy and expensive restoration process.
A professional car shipping service that specializes in classic vehicles understands these challenges and can provide the necessary precautions to protect every aspect of your car.
The Value of Enclosed Transport
One of the most effective ways to protect your classic car during shipping is to use enclosed transport. Unlike open transport, which exposes vehicles to the elements, enclosed carriers provide a higher level of protection from weather, debris, and potential road hazards.
An enclosed transport service ensures that your classic car is fully shielded during its journey. The sealed trailer not only prevents exposure to rain, snow, or dust, but it also reduces the risk of accidental damage from other vehicles or road debris. This method is particularly important for cars with delicate paintwork or highly customized parts that cannot be easily replaced.
At Dealers Choice Auto Transport, we offer both open and enclosed transport options, but for classic cars, we strongly recommend enclosed transport to ensure that your vehicle arrives in pristine condition.
Securing the Vehicle for Transport
When it comes to classic car shipping, securing the vehicle inside the trailer is a critical step. Unlike modern cars, which can be easily loaded onto carriers with minimal adjustments, classic cars require special attention to how they are secured. Older vehicles may have unique suspension systems or body frames that can be damaged by improper loading techniques.
Professional shipping companies like Dealers Choice Auto Transport use soft straps and custom brackets to secure classic cars in place. These tools prevent damage to the vehicle’s suspension or frame, ensuring that the car remains stable during transit without causing any harm. It’s also important to consider that classic cars may be more sensitive to movement, making it essential to use the right equipment for a safe journey.
Insurance and Liability Considerations
No matter how careful a transport company may be, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is properly insured during transport. When selecting a shipping service for your classic car, it’s crucial to verify their insurance coverage and determine whether it fully protects the value of your vehicle.
At Dealers Choice Auto Transport, we provide comprehensive insurance coverage for all vehicles we transport, including classic cars. Our policy is designed to give you peace of mind, knowing that in the unlikely event of an accident, your investment is fully protected. Additionally, we encourage our customers to verify that their own insurance policy extends to vehicle transport, as this can provide an added layer of security.
Preparing Your Classic Car for Transport
Before shipping your classic car, there are a few steps you can take to further protect your investment. Proper preparation ensures that your vehicle is ready for the journey and can help prevent potential damage.
Document Your Vehicle’s Condition
Before your car is loaded onto the carrier, it’s important to thoroughly inspect it for any pre-existing damage. Take detailed photos of the exterior and interior, noting any scratches, dents, or imperfections. This documentation will serve as evidence of the car’s condition prior to transport and can be helpful in the event of a claim.
Clean the Vehicle
While it may seem counterintuitive to clean your car before it’s loaded into a transport trailer, a clean car makes it easier to spot any new damage that may occur during transit. Additionally, removing dirt and debris can prevent scratches or abrasions caused by road grime.
Remove Personal Items
It’s always a good idea to remove any personal belongings from the car before shipping. Not only does this reduce the risk of damage to the vehicle’s interior, but it also prevents the possibility of theft. Shipping companies typically do not insure personal items left in vehicles, so it’s best to take everything out.
Check for Leaks
Before your vehicle is shipped, make sure there are no fluid leaks. Shipping companies may refuse to transport cars with significant oil, transmission, or coolant leaks, as these can damage other vehicles on the carrier or lead to mechanical issues during transport.
Choosing the Right Car Shipping Company
When it comes to transporting a classic car, selecting the right shipping company is the most important decision you can make. The company you choose should have experience handling classic cars, a solid reputation for reliability, and the necessary equipment to transport your vehicle safely.
Dealers Choice Auto Transport has been in the car shipping business for over 50 years, and we’ve earned our reputation as the #1 car shipping service. We understand that classic cars are not just vehicles—they are investments, often with deep personal meaning for their owners. That’s why we take every precaution to ensure your vehicle is handled with the utmost care.
Our team of experienced professionals knows the ins and outs of classic car shipping, from using soft straps to prevent scratches to offering enclosed transport for maximum protection. We’ve helped hundreds of customers ship their classic cars across the country, and we pride ourselves on delivering a smooth and stress-free experience for every client.
Why Dealers Choice Auto Transport?
- Over 50 Years of Experience: With decades of experience in car shipping, we know how to handle any situation, from cross-country moves to transporting rare and fragile vehicles.
- Specialized in Classic Cars: We understand the unique challenges of transporting classic cars, and we’ve built our business on providing the highest level of care for these valuable vehicles.
- Comprehensive Insurance: We offer full insurance coverage for all vehicles we transport, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.
- Customer Support: Our team is always available to answer your questions and provide updates on your vehicle’s journey. We’re here for you every step of the way.
- Nationwide Service: No matter where you need your car shipped, we’ve got you covered. Our services are available across the country, whether you’re moving to a new state or sending your car to a car show.
Trust Dealers Choice Auto Transport for Your Classic Car Shipping Needs
When it comes to classic car shipping, protecting your investment should be your top priority. Choosing an experienced, professional, and reputable transport company like Dealers Choice Auto Transport is the best way to ensure your vehicle arrives safely and securely at its destination. With over 50 years of experience, comprehensive insurance coverage, and a team of dedicated professionals, we are the go-to choice for classic car owners across the country.
Don’t take chances with your prized vehicle. Contact Dealers Choice Auto Transport today to learn more about our classic car shipping services and get a free quote. Let us handle the details so you can rest easy, knowing your car is in good hands.