Shipping a Financed Car - A Complete Guide for Vehicle Owners

Calculator, car keys, and documents on a table with a blurred car in the background for shipping a financed car.

If you have been asking yourself whether it is possible to ship a financed car, then you are not alone.

 

Every driver knows how stressful it can be to think about moving a vehicle that has not paid off in full yet.

 

But shipping a financed car isn't all that unconventional-it's, in fact, quite common.

 

Using the correct procedure, your vehicle can get to the destination safely and without much distress.

 

In this guide, you'll find all the information required to ship a financed car without a hitch.

 

Step 1: Check with your lender

 

Before making any shipping arrangements, your priority should be contacting your lender.

 

Many financing agreements allow car shipment, but specific requirements must often be met.

 

  • Written permission: Your lender may require formal written permission for the transport.

  • Additional insurance: Many lending companies also want borrowers to provide proof of insurance at the time of shipment. This helps in protecting the value of the vehicle during transportation.

 

Talk to your financing company and find out what they want from you. Make sure you acquire all the necessary papers.

 

This step is critical to avoid any contractual issues.

 

Step 2: Secure comprehensive insurance coverage

 

Most auto transport companies own insurance, which may not suffice to cover the financed car.

 

To avoid such losses, it is recommended that you insure your items throughout the shipping process.

 

  • Check your current policy: If your car insurance was set with your financing, check whether the policy offers shipping insurance.

  • Supplemental coverage: If the carrier's policy doesn't meet your needs, you may want to buy extra coverage.

 

Companies that provide vehicle shipment services, such as ours, guarantee free shipping.

 

Still, it's wise to know your insurance policy rather than filling the gaps in your medical knowledge.

 

Step 3: Choose a reliable shipping company

 

Choosing the right company to ship your car is one of the most important things you must do in the whole process.

 

Choose a company that has been in the industry for a long and be sure they deliver your documents on time and are polite.

 

Here's how to vet potential companies:

 

  • Ask about insurance: Make sure the company that provides insurance policies for the firm suits you.

  • Check their credentials: Third, there would be licenses and certifications to check that the company is legal and is operating professionally.

 

Getting financing also means getting a reliable car for the entire funding period, so the company has to be trusted.

 

Step 4: Prepare your financed car for shipping

 

After selecting your preferred shipping company, it is time to prepare your car for transport.

 

Precautions will help avoid some of the catastrophes and make shipping easier.

 

  • Clean your car: Rain bares the surfaces, interior, and exterior to make any pre-existing damage easily noticeable.

  • Document vehicle condition: It is advisable to take clear photos of your car from several angles in case any harm is done in that state.

  • Remove personal items: All the items found in a car are not insured and may move around, causing damage to the vehicle during transportation.

  • Disable alarms: To avoid unnecessary disruptions during transit, ensure that all car alarms are turned off before shipping your vehicle.

 

Following such procedures will help to minimize problems during transportation.

 

Step 5: Choose your shipping method for financed car

 

There are two primary shipping methods to choose from:

 

  • Open-air transport: This is the most affordable option and suitable for most vehicles. However, your car will be exposed to weather and road debris during transit.

  • Enclosed transport: Employed for prestige, nostalgic, or expensive automobiles, this method provides optimum shield at the premium price tag.

 

Speak to the shipping company of your preference regarding your needs to know which method is most appropriate for your car.

 

Also, read Open vs. enclosed car shipping - Choosing the right ride for your vehicle.

 

Step 6: Develop a shipping plan

 

It all relies on coordination when it comes to car shipping.

 

We recommend you consult your shipping company to coordinate a plan for your time and preferred choice.

 

  • Schedule pickup and delivery: Agree on the date and place convenient for both - passenger and carrier.

  • Be present for inspections: Before and after receiving the car, you should check it to ensure it is in good shape.

  • Communicate regularly: Check your shipping company regularly to know how far your car has reached.

 

That is why a clear plan allows all the process events to run smoothly from beginning to end.

 

Final thoughts

 

Transporting a financed car may sound a bit difficult initially, but the procedure is straightforward with the above steps.

 

First, it is necessary to address the lender to inquire about permissions and essential conditions.

 

Ensure you get full insurance, select a reputable transport company, and read how to get your car ready for transit.

 

That is why; by correctly planning cooperation with the carrier and adequately choosing the type of shipping, it is possible to turn the process into a smooth and fast one.

 

With these steps in place, one can ship their financed car knowing it will reach the destination in good condition.

 

Ready to ship your financed car?

 

Get a free quote today and enjoy a stress-free shipping experience with Universal Transit!

Leader in the auto transport industry, offering a seamless online booking experience for car shipping services.

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