Just like moving anything else, the decision to move a car can be a stressful process, but by following a few simple guidelines you can safely move car for a reasonable price.

Once you decide to car move, the first step is to find the company who will move the car. The key here is information. You want to know as much as you possibly can about the company who will move your car. Start by calling and looking over the websites of several car moving companies. Personal referrals and online quotes, like the ones you will get from the form above are always a great way to start. Once you’ve narrowed your list down to three or so top picks, look for information on these companies with the Better Business Bureau. You should be aware that prices for moving cars can vary greatly depending upon the popularity of the route, the total distance of the trip, and whether or not your car will be shipped in an open or closed trailer. When picking a company to move your car, be sure to ask about any insurance they may offer and get all the details about any available policies. Also make note of the company’s policy on payment. Some will want a check when the car is picked up, while others want you to pay at the office.

Once you’ve chosen a company to car move, and have arranged the particulars of the move–date of pickup, date of delivery, etc.–it’s time to prepare your car to move. Before you move a car make sure all its fluids are topped off, the battery is charged, and all its tires are well inflated. The gas tank does not need to be full and being at a quarter or an eighth of a tank is actually preferable since it decreases the weight of the vehicle. Remove all personal items from the car. Clean the car and then make note of all dents, scratches and other damages. You may want to take pictures. Convertibles should have their tops put up and any holes should be covered. Disable or deactivate the security system if your car has one. External attachments like spoilers or fog lights should be removed before the car move. If your vehicle requires any special tricks to get it started, or if it otherwise requires any sort of special handling, make note of this for the shippers. Be especially sure to note if your car is leaking any sort of fluid. The shipper needs to know this so he or she knows not to put your car above any others. If you can fix any of these leaks before the car moves, obviously that is preferable.

When the day comes to move car you may have to drive to a nearby parking lot to meet the driver–car carriers are often 75 feet long and are therefore unwieldy. The mover should fill out a bill of loading. This document will include a report on the condition of the car when picked up. Go over this form with the mover carefully.

When your car arrives, check your vehicle over thoroughly then and there.

Follow these simple tips and there’s no reason why car move shouldn’t be a simple and painless experience.