Car shipping is a daunting task, especially if you don’t know the rules that govern the process. One of the major questions perplexing car owners is whether it is safe, or even legal, to transport a vehicle that has a full tank of fuel. The logic behind my statement may seem halfway reasonable because who wouldn’t want to ensure that there is enough fuel during the journey? However, the reality is different.
This article will cover everything in detail including the regulations, risks, and best practices that allow for the safe shipping of a vehicle with a full tank.
Can You Ship a Car with a Full Tank of Gas?
Common Misconceptions
Having a full tank, at first, may seem like a brilliant idea as it allows easy driving once the car gets delivered. However, having a fuel tank at full capacity during transport is directly in opposition to the traditional methods of car shipping. Transporting a car filled with gas is not as easy as it may seem. Most auto transport companies such as Safe Car Hauling Inc set strict rules regarding matters like these. Most companies prefer the tank to be empty.
Regulations and Safety Guidelines
As with everything, the DOT and even the shipping companies have specific regulations when transporting vehicles which are meant to minimize safety risks. For example, there are restrictions as to how much fuel is allowed in the tank. A fuel tank that is full presents an increased risk because, for one, it has the potential to catch fire. Additionally, it poses an increased load on the car during transportation and while turning on the engine. Keeping the level of fuel in the tank low allows for a far safer process for all parties involved within the shipping process.
Risks and Liabilities
Potential Damages and Safety Hazards
If a vehicle is being shipped with a full tank of gas, it runs the risk of incurring a few problems which includes the following:
Fire Hazards: Tanks of gas are known to be a flammable fuel. If the tank is at maximum level, it increases the chance of the vehicle catching fire during transport if there is any unforeseen collision.
Added Weight: A tank full of gas caps does in fact add weight to your vehicle. This puts additional strain on the carrier and increases consumption of the transport truck’s fuel.
Leaks: There is a risk of relatively higher leaks with a full enclosed tank, that causes potential damage to your vehicle during transportation.
Insurance Implications
Car shipping firms like Safe Car Hauling Inc may indemnify against losses while in transit, but filling up the gas tank while shipping could be a potential violation of their policies. If this is the case, you may suffer damage costs from the additional fuel. Make sure to check what fuel allowance is provided by the car shipping company prior to booking the shipment.
Getting Ready Your Vehicle for Shipment
There are processes that must be followed to ensure that shipping goes off without a hitch. To make it easier for you, here is a list you can follow:
Controlling Fuel Level
Do not exceed a quarter tank of fuel as a precaution. That is just enough fuel for limited driving if the need arises without increasing risks during transport.
Give Your Vehicle a Wash
You should wash your vehicle to allow for any scratches, dings or damages to be clearly visible for inspection after transit.
Eliminate All Internal Personal Effects
Remove all items of personal effects from the car’s cabin to lessen any unnecessary weight and prevent disputes with the car shipping company.
Examine Your Vehicle Thoroughly
Examine your vehicle thoroughly and take pictures for your records. Doing so will help you defend against damages that may be inflicted during shipment.
Look For Leaks
Look for any leaks of fluids that could hinder the safe transport of the vehicle.
Remove Alarms and Place All Loose Parts Inside
Cancel all alarms and place all loose items inside the car to ensure that they do not get damaged during transit.
Best Practices and Alternatives
Best Practices On How To Ship A Car
Make sure that all safety measures are followed; in this case, do not exceed maximum fuel level.
Make sure that you talked to your shipping provider so all preparations do not violate their instructions.
Use well known companies as Safe Car Hauling, Inc. They know how to keep you safe and are willing to give advice at every stage of the process.
Transporting Additional Fuel
In case you think there’s a high chance you might need extra fuel at your destination, it is possible to store it in a DOT-approved portable fuel container. However, get in touch with your shipping company regarding the legality of having it transported in the same carrier as your vehicle. If you decide on this option, ensure fuel is available where you are dropping off the vehicle.
Safe Car Hauling Team Recommends:
Remember to abide by all outlined measures in preparation. This is to ensure that no extra work is required after transit.
If you are unclear on anything, please do let us know. The transport companies exist just to assist you through all of these.
Concluding Remarks for Ensured Smooth Delivery
When shipping a vehicle, it is crucial to leave a car without fuel. This is like best practice as it ensures safety while also complying with industry standards. Following the steps mentioned above will mitigate risks and also ensure that your car reaches the final destination without any issues.
Keep in mind that you are preparing your vehicle not only for shipping but also for ensuring utmost peace of mind during the delivery phase. For professional help, people like Safe Car Hauling Inc will make all necessary efforts to assist you. They provide safe and effective car transportation services to car owners like you to help ease their burden. If you have any questions or need assistance, you can always contact me, or if you know someone who is planning to ship his or her vehicle, don’t hesitate to share this post.