1. Take Lots of Notes

Before you begin examining your car for overseas transportation, be sure to grad a note pad and a pen. The shipping company you select may have a specific form they want you to fill out for the task, so make sure to ask before you begin the inspection. Then make sure that the pick up driver receives a copy of your notes before your car in shipped.

2. Pictures Too

A pictures is worth a thousands words, but it could also be worth thousands of dollars if something goes wrong during the transport and you have proof showing the damage is new. In addition to taking thorough notes of your cars condition, also take several pictures (dated if possible) to keep with your notes. As with the notes, give copies of all photos to the shipping company or pick up driver.

3. Note All Dents & Dings

Although your car is unlikely to get dented or banged up on the transport, you should still make note of the vehicles body condition. Take pictures of the front, back, top and each side in good lighting. If there are any dents or dings, write them down and take pictures of them as well so you know they were there before the transport. Additionally, be sure to check the condition of your tires, bumpers, mirrors, and front grill.

4. Check Lights

Always check to ensure your headlights, taillights, break lights, and inside dash lights are all in working order. If any lights are out, be honest and write it down in your notes so that you know the light was not working before the transport.

5. Examine Windows

One of the most overlooked parts of the car is the windshield and windows. Make note of any cracks or chips, and take detailed pictures, so that if they get any bigger during shipping you have proof.

6. Inspect Inside

You may think there is no way you would not notice a change on the inside of your car, but how often are you in the backseat of your own vehicle, or the passenger seat for that matter? Take notes and pictures of the cars interior, including dashboards, handles, review mirror, seats, floor, ceiling, fans, etc. Since other people of different sizes will be driving your car for short distances during transport you should make sure the seat adjustments work.

7. Check The Engine

You may be required to have your car examined or pass a smog check to ship it overseas, but this is a good thing, because you should know your cars condition anyways. Take note of any sounds your car makes or any engine work undone that you are aware of.