Classic and antique vehicles are beautiful, lovingly built cars that represent a wealth of history and values to preserve. If you’re planning to ship a classic car, whether from a recent auction purchase or to relocate, the stakes are much higher than with any regular vehicle.

Unlike modern vehicles, classic cars require “sensitive” handling. Even a single scratch or dent can cost the owner a whopping amount of money, causing financial and emotional consequences.  This is why determining the correct shipping method to ship classic cars is crucial. This article provides actionable tips to help you enjoy a simplified and seamless vintage transportation experience.

Why Classic & Antique Cars Require Special Attention

Classic and antique vehicles have unique aspects that make their transportation more complicated than that of today’s vehicles. It is important to understand these aspects, which warrant the use of trusted transport services; this is not just a suggestion but a means to protect your investment.

Preservation of value

Classic cars are very sensitive to any damage which can cause a loss of market value, even under proper care. Protecting chrome and trim pieces, as well as fine bodywork, is essential and requires a care level that typical car carriers simply cannot accommodate.

A lot of classic cars have distinctive hood ornaments and protruding bumpers, which further add to the exposure to damage when shipping them. Adapting the transfer and delivery of sensitive components is the responsibility of any professional classic car shipper.

The limited availability of parts raises the stakes.

Classic car sportspersons experience a unique challenge when sourcing parts for older classic cars because they were discontinued decades ago, while modern vehicles have parts available for order in days. This creates several issues for owners of classics, such as:

•    Parts are fully discontinued and not able to be procured by any traditional means;

•    Parts are only available from specialty suppliers at exorbitant prices;

•    Parts need to be custom fabricated by a skilled craftsman;

•    Only being available through collector networks, junkyards, or swap meets

Emotional and financial investment protection

Classic cars often possess a special value that cannot be measured solely with dollars and cents. For some, these cars represent years of weekends spent restoring special family memories or family milestones, while for others, they fulfill their lifelong dream of ownership. The appropriate transport protection is essential for classic cars as there is often measurable sentimental value exceeding monetary value. Also, from a financial standpoint, classic cars, as an investment, have increased in value over the last decades, with particular models regularly serving as a good investment. Reputable, professional classic car transporters understand that these are not ‘just cars.’ Classic cars are priceless financial assets, perhaps only limited in value to antique fine art paintings or rare valuable collections.

Choosing the Right Transport Type

When it comes to car-shipping service preferences, the most important decision vintage vehicle owners have to make is whether to select open or enclosed transport. Unlike open-sided carriers that are best suited for ordinary cars, vintage cars are best served in enclosed transport, affording these classics the protective treatment they require.

#1. Open vs. enclosed transport: Making the right choice

 Standard vehicles, open car carriers, and multi-level trucks that are commonly seen on highways provide an economical shipping solution. However, transported vehicles are exposed to harsh weather, road debris, and damage that might occur when loading and unloading nearby cars. For classic vehicles, the expenditure is far too high, given the exposure to risk.

The need for additional benefits tailored towards classic car transport is best served by enclosed carriers, which provide complete protection from external elements.

Feature	Open Transport	Enclosed Transport
Weather Protection	None	Complete
Debris Protection	Minimal	Complete
Loading Security	Standard	Enhanced
Vehicle Capacity	8-10 cars	4-6 cars
Handling Attention	Standard	Individualized
Cost	Lower	Higher
Insurance Coverage	Standard	Enhanced

An enclosed environment can allow transporters to use special loading equipment to give each vehicle personal care while also maintaining the climate during transit. Many enclosed carriers use climate control systems to help protect vintage vehicle components from extreme temperatures and humidity spikes.

#2. Weather and road debris protection

One significant area of concern in transporting classic cars is that they are particularly susceptible to damage related to weather – whenever there is a change in climate, a classic car, due to the original paint systems, sometimes reacts negatively to temperature fluctuations, excessive water, and UV exposure further compounded on long-distance shipping. Enclosed trailers mitigate these climate hazards by maintaining environmental consistency independent of their climb into the transport truck.

Road debris is another area of concern – especially if the car is being shipped via open transport on a highway, making it vulnerable to elements like rock chips, tire debris, and other road hazards that can create immediate damage. A covered trailer greatly increases the odds that your classic car will arrive without some new battle scars from the transport.

#3. Cost considerations and value justification

Enclosed transport often costs 40-60% more than open carrier shipping, prompting some classic car owners to question whether it is worth the added cost. When compared to the cost of repairs using correct materials and procedures, enclosed shipping is an outstanding value safety net.

Even repairing a single paint panel on a classic car using period-correct materials and procedures can cost $1,000-$3,000. The additional expense of enclosed shipping quickly evaporates when minor damage risks are considered. For classic cars valued at over $25,000, enclosed transport should be an absolute requirement.

Prepping Your Classic Vehicle for Transport

Proper preparation greatly minimizes risks during transport and facilitates a smoother pickup and delivery experience. A reliable car shipping company will often provide preparation instructions, but classic car owners should take precautions in addition to the instructions, considering the vehicle-specific needs.

Step#1: Thorough condition documentation

Create thorough documentation of your vehicle’s condition before transport starts. This can help establish a baseline condition for an insurance claim and document any existing issues that shouldn’t be blamed on transport, as well as provide the basis for some aspects of a review post-delivery.

Your documentation should include the following:

•    High-quality photographs from multiple angles and in close detail focusing on existing damages

•    Written documentation of paint condition, interior wear, and mechanical issues

•    A full list of any accessories, spare parts, or documentation that are included with your vehicle

•    An accurate record of the odometer reading and fuel level

•    Any notes regarding the handling of the vehicle and any quirks of the vehicle.

Many classic car owners do video workarounds so that they can document things that a photograph provision might miss. This thorough method provides ironclad protection should an issue arise regarding shipping damage.

Step#2: Essential pre-transport maintenance

While you will not have to deal with a lot of mechanical work before travel, doing some of the basic maintenance will make things safer in transit and will avoid some issues at the time of pickup and delivery. Focus on the items that pertain to the vehicle’s ability to move safely.

Basic maintenance items:

•    Tire pressure: Correct tire pressures will avoid flat spots during transport, plus the driver can safely load/unload.

•    Battery condition: A working battery allows the driver to move the vehicle if necessary.

•    Fluid levels: Be sure to check for substantial leaks that might cause damage to other vehicles or trailer equipment.

•    Brake function: Make sure the parking brake engages properly to hold the vehicle securely for transport.

•    Steering operation: Check to see if the steerable wheels will turn properly while maneuvering the vehicle when loading onto the trailer.

Please fix any fluid leaks before transporting the vehicle; transport carriers may refuse to transport a vehicle that would damage other equipment or vehicles. Be mindful that a small leak that would otherwise evaporate in an open trailer could become an issue in an enclosed trailer where fluids cannot evaporate as quickly as they could in the open.

Step#3: Securing loose parts and accessories

Classic cars often include removable or loosely attached accessories that require some added attention before being transported. These might include side mirrors, antenna, bumper guards, or custom wheels that need to be either secured down or removed altogether. Most transporters would prefer that valuable or easily damaged accessories be shipped separately for added safety.

Make a list of every removed item, where you stored them, and what the requirements are for reinstallation. Some owners simply photograph the mounting points for their accessories before removing them from the vehicle.

Step#4: Minimize fuel

Transport regulations restrict vehicles to limited fuel, usually not more than one-quarter tank, to remove a fire hazard, reduce weight so the vehicle can be transported more efficiently as well as prevent fuel from spilling out when loading.

In classic cars with older fuel systems and in the event the vehicle will be still for long before or after its transport. It might be prudent to use fuel stabilizer additives. Vintage fuel pumps and carburetors can be sensitive to fuel degradation, and using stabilizers could provide valuable insurance and avoid mechanical issues.

Choosing a Reliable Classic Car Transporter

Not all auto transport companies have the experience, the proper equipment, or commitment to service that you need when shipping classic or antique vehicles. Knowing the difference between great providers and standard carriers will help you avoid the nightmarish transport experience that your treasured classic investment doesn’t deserve.

Experience with vintage vehicle transport

Vintage automobiles or motorcycles present unique challenges and require special knowledge and experience. You should look for a transportation company that can provide evidence of significant experience, specifically with classic car transportation, along with familiarity with makes, models, and eras.

Expert classic vehicle transporters will know the details concerning different vehicle types, either from their own experience or professional training. They will appreciate issues such as the ground clearance of lowered muscle cars or chrome working on 1950s luxury vehicles. They will take into consideration that a 1967 Camaro SS must be treated differently than a 1932 Ford Roadster and that their more specific procedures.

Inquire about your potential transporter’s knowledge of delivering vehicles similar to yours. Established classic car transporters can usually provide you with references from the owners of similar vehicles, and the transporter may even have knowledge of general problems with your make/model and the era.

Insurance coverage verification

Insurance coverage becomes even more important when dealing with classic car transportation due to the value of the vehicle and the difficulty of obtaining replacement parts for repairs. The auto transport insurance that your classic car transporter utilizes can often be lower value than for the “classic vehicles.”

Ensure that the appropriate transporter has sufficient coverage for the declared value of your vehicle.  Best classic car transport companies offer enhanced insurance to transport high-value vehicles, as follows:

•    Comprehensive physical damage coverage: Coverage for collision, weather, theft and vandalism.

•    Agreed value coverage: Insurance for the value of your vehicle since refurbishment as opposed to depreciated book value.

•    Mechanical coverage: Coverage for the mechanical issues related to transportation.

•    Load/unload coverage: Coverage for the most dangerous stage of transport.

Driver training and carrier vetting

Driver quality and equipment quality are paramount to protecting classic cars during transport and overall success. The best companies working in classic car transport usually have driver and equipment standards that far exceed the industry minimums.

A reliable car shipping company will have evidence of the following:

•    Driver experience: Trained personnel experienced in classic car handling, vintage vehicle idiosyncrasies

•    Equipment standards: Enclosed trailers that are well maintained, proper loading equipment

•    Safety records: Good DOT safety rating and few claims for damage

•    Communications protocols: Timely communication updates and driver contact availability

Higher-end classic car transport companies use their own equipment and are not ‘brokers’ with independent drivers. This provides a form of inherent quality assurance and consistency of service.

Customer reviews and references

Classic car owners come from a very closely-knit community, and word-of-mouth referrals mean a lot. Look for reviews and referrals from classic car owners and not general automotive transport customers. Look for reviews that speak about these qualities:

•    Condition on delivery: Were the comments about cars arriving exactly as shipped?

•    Communication: Were they available with updates and easy to reach with the issue?

•    Professionalism: Were they respectful, knowledgeable, and knew classic car values?

•    Issue resolution: How did they deal with issues if a problem occurred?

Online classic car forums, social media groups, and collector car organizations are great sources to find transporter referrals and where to stay away from.

What to Expect During Pickup and Delivery?

Knowing the pickup and delivery process allows preparing and understanding the professional service levels you should expect. A quality transporter will follow generally accepted steps to ensure both the vehicles and the customers are protected during the shipping process.

#1. Professional inspections

Legitimate classic car transporters will perform extensive pre-transport inspections beyond what standard vehicle shipping entails. The pre-transport inspection is the basis for proving and identifying any transport damage and should be done with the vehicle owner when possible. The pre-transport inspection process commonly begins with:

•    Visual inspection: thorough check of the condition of paint, chrome, glass, and trim.

•    The photographer’s documentation: taking pictures of all vehicle surfaces, noting any existing damage.

•    Mechanical inspection: basic operation of lights, horn braking, and steering.

•    Interior inspection: general review of the driver’s seat, dash, and unopened accessories.

•    Undercarriage inspection: look for any leaks and possibly loose components.

Both parties should keep a copy of the inspection report and signature. Owners should discuss any previous damage or problems during their inspection; it is easier to resolve issues before the vehicle is loaded for transport instead of after delivery.

Communication and Tracking during Transit

When it comes to maintaining an open line of communication, most professional vintage car transporters know that owners want regular updates on their prized possessions. Most quality companies, and even the affordable ones, will provide multiple avenues of communication by keeping their customers informed through updates during the transport in the following ways:

•    A pickup confirmation: Confirm that your car was loaded and on its way.

•    Transit updates: Continuing updates on your car as it is being transported, primarily for long-distance shipping.

•    Confirming delivery time: Giving you as much advance notice as possible for when your car will be delivered.

•    Direct driver contingent: You may have the option to communicate directly with the person who is transporting your vehicle.

Many modern transport markets provide GPS tracking systems, giving owners the opportunity to monitor their vehicle’s location throughout the shipment. While it is not a necessity, this may lend value to the transport experience for owners of specially valuable vehicles or vehicles burdened with emotional sentiment.

Delivery options and considerations

Classic car transport typically offers two primary delivery options: terminal-to-terminal and door-to-door service. For high-value vehicles, door-to-door delivery generally provides superior protection and convenience despite the additional cost.

Door-to-door advantages:

•    Minimizes handling and transfer risks

•    Provides maximum convenience

•    Allows owner supervision of the delivery process

•    Reduces exposure to theft or damage at storage facilities

Terminal-to-terminal considerations:

•    Lower cost option

•    May be necessary in areas with restricted truck access

•    Requires additional trip to retrieve vehicle

•    Involves storage at transport facility

For extremely valuable classics, some owners arrange to meet transporters at convenient locations that offer adequate space for safe unloading while avoiding the risks associated with terminal storage.

How Preowned Auto Logistics Protects Your Classic Investment

When it comes time to ship classic cars, Preowned Auto Logistics (PAL) is a best-in-class option for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Our comprehensive approach to vintage vehicle transport provides industry-leading expertise with processes and equipment tailored to high-end automobiles.

Nationwide enclosed carrier network

PAL offers an expansive network of enclosed carriers specifically designed for classic car transportation. Unlike competitors that utilize enclosed trailers as an afterthought, our enclosed transport options are designed and constructed to protect valuable vehicles. Our carriers are designed and equipped with:

•        Temperature-controlled environments that prevent temperature and humidity variation

•    Loading equipment that can facilitate the loading of low-clearance and modified vehicles

•    Individual tie-down system that secures each vehicle without damage points

•    Soft-touch loading process that ensures there are no scratches or dents introduced during load

Today, with our nationwide coverage, whether you are transporting from a California auction to a New York collector or transferring your restoration project from Texas to Florida, PAL will offer a professional transport option every time.

Experienced professional drivers

The difference between adequate and exceptional classic car transport often comes down to driver expertise. PAL’s transport professionals receive specialized training in vintage vehicle handling, including the understanding of common classic car characteristics and potential complications.

Our drivers are trained to recognize and accommodate the following:

•    Ground clearance limitations of lowered or modified vehicles

•    Steering and brake characteristics of vintage systems

•    Loading sequence requirements for multi-car trailers

•    Special handling needs for particular makes and models

This expertise proves invaluable when dealing with vehicles that may have unique quirks, non-standard dimensions, or delicate components that require extra attention during transport.

Comprehensive insurance and transparent processes

PAL provides total insurance coverage tailored for classic and collector cars based on the vehicle’s real value rather than depreciation. If things go wrong, our transparent claims process ensures a resolution that is quick and fair.

PAL keeps records throughout the entire shipping process, including:

•    Pre-transport condition report with a lot of pictures

•    Documentation of loading with described means of securing the vehicle

•    Transit report with location and status information

•    Delivery complete with post-transport condition report

Your interest and your vehicles will be protected with all of this documentation, and the entire shipment process will be totally transparent.

Door-to-door service with detailed inspections

PAL provides a door-to-door service with inspections at both pickup and delivery, completed by trained professionals who know classic car values and vulnerabilities. Our inspection process includes:

•    clear and detailed photo documentation of all surfaces, including undercarriage and components

•    verification that mechanical systems are operational

•    documentation of any special accessories or modifications

•    clear communication with vehicle owners about our findings

Our detailed inspection mitigates any misunderstandings about conditions; all concerns are identified and documented and thus resolved immediately to ensure a smooth transport experience.

Conclusion

Shipping classic and antique vehicles involves a different level of consideration and knowledge than regular auto shipping. Due to the high values, irreplaceable parts, and emotional ties of these vehicles, selecting the appropriate shipping method is essential to ensuring the safety of automotive treasures.

The decision to ship a classic car investment should not be made in haste nor based solely on price considerations. The special equipment, trained employees, and, ultimately, the insurance protection offered through reputable classic car transporters are necessary for safeguarding vehicles that you hope will also appreciate in value.

The best classic car transport companies, like Preowned Auto Logistics, know that vintage car transport is about protecting automotive history and the investments of their clients.  The specialized equipment, trained people, and protection guarantee that your classic vehicle is treated with the care it deserves,separates PAL from the rest.