How Can I Have My Classic Car Delivered Safely?

If you own or are buying a classic or vintage car you will know they need more attention than an everyday vehicle. The nature of classic/vintage cars often means driving to your chosen destination is simply not possible. The number of ways to transport a car can be daunting but this guide will go through each one.

Service Type
When transporting a classic car, you have 3 types of courier services – each of which will be examined in more detail below.
1) The car is driven to its destination on trade plates
2) The car is transported on a single car trailer
3) The car is transported on a multi-car trailer
Having the car transporter drive it to its destination on trade plates can be the cheapest option – but there are disadvantages. The chances of it being damaged are slightly higher (although nothing to worry about) as the car is being driven on the road, however a good car transporter will naturally be appropriately insured. In addition the mileage of the car will be used, which can be hefty when the trip is especially long.
Hiring a transporter who uses a single car trailer will be the more expensive of the options because the cost will not be shared amongst other customers. This method of car transport is rarely overbooked like the multi-car transportation can be, meaning it is entirely possible to find a willing car transporter at short notice. Having your classic car transported on an enclosed is the safest albeit most costly option.
Using a multi-car trailer should be the cheapest option, as the cost can be divided between many customers. Cars are transported around the UK and Europe daily, making this a good option. However, door to door delivery will be unlikely – with this method, the car transporter will generally deliver the car to a nearby hub, from where you can collect the car.
Preparation
Preparation is key when transporting your classic or vintage car – the better the preparation the better the chances of avoiding damage during transit. To work out the details of delivery you should really be in constant conversation with your transport conversation. Your chosen car transporter should know everything about your car, from its make and model, to age and faults
Make sure the transporter is aware that the car is a classic, vintage or antique. This gives the transporter a chance to acquire different equipment if they need and simply to take more care on the day! Leading up to its transportation, you should document all the existing damage and problems with the car that might affect its transport and handling.
The loss or damage of personal items within a car will rarely be covered by the transporter's insurance so make sure you take them all out before handing the car over. If you have a moment, break out the sponge and chamois and give the car a good clean. Head lamps should be
Take dated photographs with a written record of any damage (and of course lack of damage) the car may have. If your car is not mot'd or particularly old it may be risky to have it towed.
If you are lucky enough to be transporting a convertible you should properly seal the roof to prevent debris and moisture entering the car interior. Tarp or heavy duty tape will able to cover any breaks in the seal.
The antennae should be retracted and the mirrors should be folded back. As a rule, anything that is sticking out or is likely to wobble should be closed or taken off and transported separately.
If you make an inventory of the various parts of the car you will better equipped to realise when one goes missing or is damaged upon its arrival.
Transporting your classic car
Before handing over your vehicle, ensure any damage is catalogued as described above. Any respectable car transporter will do likewise.
Check the mileage on the car before releasing it – although it may increase very slightly as it is loaded and unloaded, there should of course be no major inconsistency.
Upon delivery, inspect the vehicle meticulously. Always check the car for damages on arrival before signing the job off and letting the transporter go. Check for any additional damage, and remember to make sure there is none on the roof or the bumpers. If there is, make sure the driver or company sign a document acknowledging the damage, or recourse will be much more difficult.
if you find any dents, bumps or scratches after the car has been delivered you need to contact your transport provider to try and work out a speedy resolution. Give your insurance company 24 hrs before you have the car shipped.
Post Delivery
Damage to the car during transport is rare, but it is still essential to check the car on arrival. Before going down any legal routes or other methods of recourse, try to sort out any problems with the firm directly. Should the worst happen, agencies such as Trading Standards may be able to assist.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/classics-articles/how-can-i-have-my-classic-car-delivered-safely-5294333.html
About the Author
Author: Antonio Bruno
Antonino Bruzzsa is a freelance writer creating quality content for many websites in various niches.