Whether you're moving across the street or you're moving to a new state, going through the moving process can be exciting and stressful at the same time. If you're moving interstate, even if you're hiring professional removalists, it is highly recommended that you start with the planning and preparation as soon as possible. After all, there may be additional requirements for the move, especially if you are taking your pets and vehicles to another state.

Moving your vehicle, whether it's a new one or it has been your trusted vehicle for a long time, to another state is best left to professionals. It helps ensure that your vehicle will be handled properly and delivered to your new residence in the best condition.

Here are the things you need to do when preparing your car for interstate transport:

Clean the vehicle

No matter the distance of the move, it's best to have your vehicle cleaned before the shipping date. Wash the exterior of the car and clean the interior, making sure to remove all dirt and trash.

Washing the exterior prior to shipment will make it easier for you and the transport company to distinguish scratches, dents, and other damages before the vehicle is moved. Removing trash and other items inside the vehicle will prevent any unpleasant smell from developing even if it remains unused for some time.

Empty the vehicle

Most professional movers and car transport companies have a set weight limit when transporting vehicles. Whilst some will allow you to leave your items there, it's best to remove all items, especially electronics, that don't belong with the car. This helps minimise the risk of losing valuable items, as well as damages in the vehicle and other items when it shifts or moves while being transported.

Remove tall tags or transponders in the vehicle so they won't be charged during the move. Depending on the transport company, you might be asked to empty your fuel tank or leave only a little amount (usually 1/4) in the tank.

Check leaks and other damages

Most transport companies may refuse to proceed with the shipment if there are leaks from the undercarriage and motor of your vehicle. This is crucial, especially if your vehicle will be transported using a multi-car carrier. Leaks on your vehicle may also affect or damage vehicles placed underneath it.

Remember to document any damages (dents, scratches, or the general condition of the interior and exterior) on your vehicle. Take pictures of the entire vehicle before it is loaded for shipping/delivery. This will make it easier to detect damages once it arrives in your new residence. Whilst the transport company will inspect the vehicle before loading, having these documents will help make sure that all parties involved are aware of the condition of the vehicle.

Check your tires

Make sure that your tires are properly inflated, ideally, following factory recommendations. Under or over-inflated tires increase the risk of damage to the tires and the vehicle itself.

Disable alarms and lock the vehicle

Make sure to disable your car alarms so they won't drain the vehicle's battery and avoid delaying the delivery of your vehicle. Once the alarms and other non-essential programs are disabled, request for the vehicle to be locked once it is loaded on the container or carrier.

Keep an extra set of keys

Keeping an extra set of keys can help ensure that you will have a way to access your vehicle in case the original key is misplaced or lost by the mover or the transport company. If your car uses keyless entry and other features, inform your mover in advance.