When shipping a vehicle, it’s the timing, cost, and delivery that matter. Yet, a very utilitarian question comes up at the instant of preparation: do I have to deliver the keys to the transporter?
Most auto shipping companies require you to hand over at least one set of keys to the truck company – it is that simple. It is a routine practice in the auto transport industry to accomplish this as the transporter is required to move the vehicle for safe loading. Similarly, it is equally important to unload the vehicle safely and position it on a trailer.
While the keys may rev up the automobile, the forwarder or auto shipper will ensure all contingencies are taken care of. Being familiar with how and why keys are used will ensure you’re prepared, and will not delay pickups.
This guide will highlight the importance of keys, how it functions, and how professional transport service like car-transport24.com.
The Keys Transporters Need
In order to give keys I need to fully answer taking into account vehicle loading in detail.
Once the carrier reaches you for pickup, the driver is suppose to load your vehicle onto a trailer designed for multiple vehicles. In most cases, it involves simply driving the vehicle a short distance onto the ramps of the carrier.
The driver might need to ask for the keys.
- Load the vehicle onto the transport trailer.
- Move the vehicle to balance the trailer’s weight.
- Relocate vehicle position in transit.
- Unload the vehicle from the trailer after delivery.
This is why vehicle shipments are usually expect to come with keys.
Car Transport 24’s transport coordinators share this information with customers when placing an order.
Though you need to provide the transporter with keys, usually giving them a spare set instead of the main works best.
This will give you peace of mind and will also avoid any hassle in case of a problem.
- Prepare Before Pickup
- Another key for ignition.
- We need a key fob to start the car.
- Initiate special start-up procedures, if relevant.
According to transport firms, when possible, use a spare key.

Now get rid of any personal charms.
Before you give the keys over, remove any personal belongings attached to the key.
To ensure that personal possessions are not dulled, a simple key for the car should accompany the car for transport.
- Decorative Keychains.
- Key for the front door.
- Key for office locker
- Use of Code or Tag
Providing just the car key makes the system structured and avoids confusion.
Drivers appreciate simple key transfers since this allows them to focus their attention on the safe loading and securing of their vehicle.
Find out what takes place during pickup
The car is checked prior to the commencement of the pickup.
The driver will fill out the condition of the vehicle in a text called Bill of Lading before he/she starts the route during the inspection.
You will get inspections include.
- Check all parts of vehicle for scratches or dents.
- Recording down the vehicle’s mileage.
- Appraising condition vehicle
- Verifying pickup information.
After the evaluation, the driver will carefully use the vehicle keys to place the vehicle on the trailer.
After the rig is loaded, it is secured with wheel straps or tie-downs.
An expert transport company such as Car Transport 24 will certainly follow the inspection process to make sure the vehicle is document and safe.
When Not to Use a Key
Nearly all shipments require keys. Nonetheless, they might not be required in rare cases.
A few shipments of vehicles go through the vehicle shipping process in a non-working condition i.e. the vehicles cannot start or move.
- In this situation, the load lifted using.
- Lifting Gates for Hydraulic Containers.
- None
- Tailor-made Materials.
In those situations, the keys can assist with unlocking the steering wheel or gaining entry to the car.
If your vehicle can’t move, give a heads up to the transport company beforehand so they can prepare suitable equipment.
Moving services like Car Transport 24 generally arrange for operable and inoperable vehicles transported.
You receive your keys upon delivery
When the vehicle arrives its destination, the driver will check once more before unloading.
- You will do so during delivery.
- Observe the vehicle for any alterations.
- Verify the vehicle against the pickup inspection report.
- Please do an odometer check.
When the inspection is done, the driver will return the keys.
If someone else is taking the vehicle on your behalf, make sure to ask them to collect the keys from the driver.
A lot of modern cars have push button ignition systems, security codes, or other unique ignition systems.
When the driver arrives during pickup, do tell the driver if there are any special instructions to start or operate your vehicle.
- Press to start.
- Unique security setups.
- Manual car guide.
- after alarms of the market.
This information will facilitate the driver in moving the vehicle without delay during the loading and unloading in a safe manner.
Veteran drivers have control over all types of vehicles. Nonetheless, clear directions always come in handy.
It is normal to give keys when shipping your vehicle
Should I hand over my keys to the shipping company? In most cases, you will have to provide keys so that the driver can safely load, position, and unload your vehicle for transport.
- For a smooth shipping experience.
- Offer you a spare set of car keys.
- Take off personal keychains or trinkets.
- Inform the driver about any special features of the vehicle.
- Ensure that the keys get return on delivery
Keep in constant communication with your transport coordinator.
Vehicle transportation that is safe and easy is in store for customers when they use the services of companies such as Car Transport 24 because they have the experience and expertise to coordinate the transport professionally and use reliable carriers and services.
However, if you complete the right planning like submitting the keys, then your vehicle shipment will be smooth and safe without any delay.

