When the temperature begins to drop, preparing your vehicle properly before transport is one of the most important steps you can take for a smooth and safe winter shipment. At American Car Transporters, we help customers nationwide get their vehicles ready for winter transport every season. Whether you are heading south to escape the cold or moving a car for business or family reasons, simple preparation makes a major difference in ensuring your car is protected, inspected, and ready for the journey.

Why Winter Preparation Matters

Cold weather affects vehicles in unique ways. Fluids thicken, batteries lose charge faster, and road salt or slush can lead to corrosion. When shipping your car before or during winter, preparation ensures it remains in top condition while reducing potential risks during loading, transit, and delivery. A few small steps can save time, prevent misunderstandings, and give you confidence knowing your car is well cared for during transport.

Cleaning and Inspection

The first step in preparing your vehicle for winter transport is to clean it thoroughly. Wash the exterior and, if possible, give it a quick rinse underneath to remove any salt or grime. A clean car allows the driver and you to perform a clear visual inspection before loading. This inspection is recorded on a bill of lading, which notes the vehicle’s condition prior to shipping.

After cleaning, take several clear photos of your vehicle from all angles in good lighting. These photos serve as an extra layer of documentation for your records. During the inspection, the carrier will note existing scratches, dents, or cosmetic marks to ensure everything is transparent when your car is delivered.

Fuel and Battery Preparation

When shipping your vehicle, you should leave about a quarter tank of gas. This amount is ideal for loading and unloading while keeping the vehicle light enough for safe transport. A full tank adds unnecessary weight, while an empty tank can make starting or moving the vehicle difficult during pickup or delivery.

Check your battery to ensure it holds a proper charge. Cold weather can weaken batteries, especially older ones. A quick test before shipping ensures the car starts easily during loading and unloading. If you have a battery tender, use it before the driver arrives to ensure maximum charge.

Fluid Levels and Maintenance Check

Inspect all major fluid levels including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Make sure coolant is rated for winter temperatures appropriate for your region. Even though your vehicle will not be driven long distances during transport, maintaining proper fluid levels helps prevent issues if it needs to be moved short distances for loading or unloading.

Check your tire pressure as well. Cold air causes tires to lose pressure, which can make moving the vehicle more difficult or unsafe. Properly inflated tires help with stable loading and secure positioning on the carrier.

Personal Belongings and Interior Preparation

Remove all personal belongings from inside the vehicle. Carriers are not licensed to transport household or personal items, and leaving objects inside can cause unnecessary risk or delays. Remove toll passes, transponders, garage door openers, or removable electronics to prevent them from activating or being lost during transport.

Clean out the trunk and glove compartment, and remove any loose items that could move around during transit. Not only does this prevent potential damage, but it also keeps your car lighter and easier to inspect.

Winter Weather Accessories

If you live in a region where snow and ice are common, check your car for winter accessories before transport. Remove snow chains, detachable roof racks, or ski boxes unless they are permanently mounted and safe for travel. Fold in side mirrors and retract antennas when possible. These small adjustments help avoid damage during loading or while your car is on the carrier.

If your vehicle has a car cover, discuss with your coordinator whether it can be used. Most open transport carriers do not allow covers because they can flap and cause friction marks. Enclosed carriers, however, may allow specialized covers for high-value vehicles.

Mechanical Condition

Before shipping, verify that your car is in working order. Carriers can transport inoperable vehicles, but they must be informed in advance to bring the right equipment. For standard running vehicles, ensure that the brakes and steering function properly. If there are known issues, communicate them ahead of time so the driver can prepare.

If your car leaks fluids, consider having it repaired before shipment or at least alert the carrier. Leaks can affect other vehicles on the carrier, and most carriers require leak-free vehicles for open transport.

Documentation and Keys

Make sure you have all documentation ready before pickup. You will need to provide one set of working keys to the driver so they can start the car when loading or unloading. Always keep a spare set for yourself. Review your transport agreement and insurance information so you understand coverage details.

Your driver will complete a detailed inspection report called the bill of lading during pickup. Review and sign it after confirming all noted details are accurate. This same report will be used during delivery to confirm your car’s condition upon arrival.

Timing Your Shipment Before Winter

Scheduling your shipment before winter officially begins gives you a major advantage. As the season progresses, demand increases along snowbird routes, and unpredictable weather can create delays. Booking two to four weeks in advance allows you to choose your preferred carrier type—open or enclosed—and maintain flexibility if a weather front affects your pickup area.

By booking early, you also avoid frozen driveways, icy loading areas, and shortened daylight hours that can complicate vehicle inspections. Late fall is the ideal time to schedule your move, ensuring your car arrives safely in a warmer destination before the cold fully sets in.

Communication and Coordination

Good communication with your transport coordinator ensures a smooth pickup and delivery. Share all relevant details such as neighborhood restrictions, gate codes, or access instructions. Let your coordinator know if your area has steep driveways or limited space for large carriers so that arrangements can be made for a nearby meeting point.

Once your booking is confirmed, stay in touch with your coordinator to receive updates and track your car’s progress. You will be notified before pickup and delivery so that you can plan accordingly.

The Role of Open vs Enclosed Transport in Preparation

If you are using open transport, your car will be exposed to the elements during transit, although it will remain off the road surface and safe from direct contact with salt or debris. A quick wax or sealant before shipment can add a layer of protection against moisture.

For enclosed transport, less exterior preparation is needed because your vehicle will travel inside a sealed trailer. However, cleaning and inspection remain essential to document your car’s pre-shipment condition clearly.

Why Proper Preparation Matters

Preparing your car for shipping before winter helps everyone involved—your driver, your coordinator, and most importantly, you. A clean, well-documented, and mechanically sound vehicle moves faster through the pickup process and arrives exactly as expected. It also prevents delays that can occur if a car cannot be loaded safely or needs adjustments at the last minute.

Customers who follow preparation steps report faster service and smoother experiences overall. They also enjoy peace of mind knowing their car was handled carefully and documented clearly from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Question

Do I need to winterize before shipping my car south. No. You do not need to perform full winterization for auto transport. Standard preparation—such as checking fluids, cleaning the vehicle, and ensuring it runs properly—is sufficient. Carriers handle all environmental conditions during transit, so you can ship your car south without additional seasonal modifications.

Get Your Car Shipped Safely This Winter

Shipping your vehicle during winter is easy when you prepare properly and work with experienced professionals. At American Car Transporters, we guide customers through every step to make sure the process is stress-free and efficient. From inspection to delivery, our team prioritizes safety and communication so your car arrives in perfect condition. Visit American Car Transporters to learn more about our vehicle preparation and shipping services or contact us today to schedule your transport before winter weather sets in.