In the vehicle shipping industry, customers want to schedule their shipping at the right price and date. Nonetheless, during the preparation stage, a very practical question arises: Do I have to give the keys to the transporter?
The answer is yes and there is a simple explanation for that. Most of the car shipping companies out there will require you to provide a set of keys to the driver. It is a common industry practice for auto transport companies to start and move vehicles for safe loading and unloading, and when necessary, for repositioning a vehicle on the trailer.
Many people may extent that providing the keys is an insignificant detail during the car shipping process. However, it is a critical component. Your understanding of how and when are keys used can help you be properly prepare so that you do not face any delays during pickup.
First step, learn why the transporters need the keys
In order to understand your question about whether or not keys provided to the transporter, it’s important to understand how loading of the vehicle is done at the COURTECO.
When the carrier comes for pickup, the driver must load your car onto a specialized trailer that can hold several cars at once. Typically, the vehicle driven a short distance on the ramps of the carrier.
The driver may need keys for this reason.
- Bring the vehicle onto the transport trailer.
- Move the car to equalize the weight of the trailer.
- Vehicles can be repositioned in transport.
- Move the vehicle off the trailer upon delivery.
During the booking process, Car Transport 24’s transport coordinators will inform customers of this requirement.
Even though it is necessary to provide the transporter with your keys, it’s usually best to provide a spare key – not your main one.
By taking this easy precaution, you can ensure that you have peace of mind not to face any inconvenience if things were to go wrong.
- Take some time preparing.
- A spare key for ignition.
- The vehicle started with the key fob.
- Directions for special starting procedures if required.
Having a second key means your primary one is still available when the car is being transport.
Transport firms for example Car Transport 24, often recommend the use of a spare key.
Remove Personal Key Chains or Accessories
Prior to handing over the keys, it is sensible to discard any personal items that may be connected to it.
At times, the keys traverse with the vehicle throughout the shipment stage. Further, keeping the keys uncomplicated also reduces the chances of losing personal accessories.
- keychain decoration
- House key
- Office and locker keys.
- Tracking devices or tags.
When you give only the vehicle key, it helps keep everything running smoothly.
Drivers like simple key handoffs because it allows them to focus on safely loading the vehicle and securing it.
Safeglov know on how to fetch
The vehicle is examined when the transporter reaches the pickup point.
At this inspection, the driver records the condition of the vehicle on a form called the Bill of Lading.
The assessment consists of.
- Looking for any dents, scratches or damages.
- Recording the vehicle’s odometer reading
- The state of the car is being verified.
- Confirming pickup details.
When complete, the driver will make use of the keys to thoroughly load the vehicle on the trailer.
Once loaded onto the vehicle, the car is secured with wheel straps or tie-down systems for transport.
Car Transport 24 and other professional transport service providers do a thorough inspection of the vehicle before transporting it.
Understand When Keys Might Not Be Needed
While most shipments require keys, there are exceptional circumstances when keys need.
For instance, some vehicles ship in non-operable condition. They cannot start or move on their own.
- Hydraulic lift gates.
- Specialized tools.
Even in these cases, it can still be beneficial to have the keys in order to unlock the steering wheel or enter the car.
If your vehicle does not run, always let the transport company know in advance for the proper equipment.
Transport providers coordinate shipments of operable and inoperable vehicles for Car Transport 24.
Get Your Keys at Delivery
The driver will inspect again before unloading when the vehicle reaches the destination.
- You can expect this to happen during delivery.
- Make sure the vehicle is not altered.
- Check the vehicle against the pickup inspection report.
- Verify the speedometer reading.
- Provide your signature on the final Bill of Lading.
- After the inspection, the driver will return the keys.
If you are having the vehicle delivere by someone else, inform them to collect the keys from the driver.
To ensure everything goes smoothly, coordinators confirm delivery methods in advance.
These days, modern vehicles come with some advanced features such as a push-button ignition system, security code, etc.
When you pick up your car, inform the driver if there are special starting and operation instructions.
- Among others.
- Self-start systems
- Personalized Security Settings
- Steps for driving a manual car.
- Alarm Systems After Market.
When you provide this information, it helps the driver move your vehicle without delay and speed up the loading and unloading times.
Drivers who have years of experience multitask in the driving environment and operate multiple vehicles. However, it is always preferable to state the priority instructions clear.
It’s standard practice in the auto transport industry to provide keys
Do I have to give the keys to the driver? Absolutely. In most cases, the driver will need keys to load, position and unload your vehicle safely on transport.
- Give spare key set to the car.
- Don’t keep keychains or charms.
- Let the driver know about any special vehicle features
- Ensure the keys are return upon delivery.
Car Transport 24 is one of the most reliable car transport service provider. By working with them as a customer, you get the benefits of coordination and reliable carrier. Further, you have a collection and delivery process that aims to keep your vehicle safe during the shipping process.
With the proper preparation starting with something as simple as providing the keys, your vehicle shipment can go smoothly and securely without any delay.
