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. Read this guide to get an understanding of all the different options available to you before rushing into hiring any one car transporter.

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. It is more likely to be damaged en route, as it is actually being driven on the road (although a good car transporter will of course be insured). In addition the mileage of the car will be used, which can be hefty when the trip is especially long.

Having the car delivered on a single car trailer is likely to be the most expensive option, as the cost is not split with 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 delivered on an enclosed is the safest albeit most costly option.

Because the expense is shared amongst all the car owners using the service, a multi-car trailer will nine times out of ten be the cheapest option available. 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 transportation 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. Anything that makes them more careful when moving your car! 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. Always give the car a wash if you have time. 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.

For the lucky few who get to impress the ladies with their classic convertible, they will need to seal the roof properly to stop any debris and moisture from entering the car interior. Tarp or heavy duty tape will able to cover any breaks in the seal.

Avoid having your mirrors clipped by folding them down, in addition the antennae should be taken down. If something that sticks out can be taken off, do so and transport it separately.

You should create an inventory of all the parts of the car, so that if any go missing or are damaged in transit you will know on its arrival.

What happens next

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.

Inspect your classic car like a hawk when it arrives at the chosen destination. Never sign off a job completed without giving the car a once over. 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.

Should damage in transit occur, you should follow the normal procedures with the transport company, to ensure the fastest possible resolution. If applicable, you must also inform your insurance company within 24 hours.

Post Delivery

Damage to the car during transport is rare, but it is still essential to check the car on arrival. Legal action or similar recourse should always be a last resort and should always come after attempts to resolve the issue with the transporters themselves has failed. Should the worst happen, agencies such as Trading Standards may be able to assist.

Antonio Bruno is a freelance writer who writes quality content for websites in various niches. His work includes writing articles about transporting valuables via courier services or man and van companies as well as guides to safe online shopping.

Antonio Bruno is a freelance writer who writes quality content for websites in various niches. His work includes writing articles about transporting valuables via http://www.shiply.com/ or http://www.shiply.com/man-and-van/ companies as well as guides to safe online shopping.

Author Bio: Antonio Bruno is a freelance writer who writes quality content for websites in various niches. His work includes writing articles about transporting valuables via courier services or man and van companies as well as guides to safe online shopping.

Category: Automotive
Keywords: classic car,transportation,couriers,safe car transport,man and van,courier services