Answer four condition questions
Does the car start? Can it move under its own power? Do all wheels roll? Can it be steered? Mention a locked transmission, a parking brake that cannot be released, missing keys or suspension damage. Mark anything unknown and ask the seller to verify it instead of guessing.
Ready when: Each question has a checked answer or is clearly marked unknown.
Provide photographs and dimensions
Show the vehicle location, wheels, visible damage and access restrictions. Include the model, unusual dimensions and low ground clearance. After a collision, bodywork or suspension damage may change loading requirements beyond the model's standard dimensions. Share useful photographs privately with the selected carrier.
Ready when: The carrier has enough information to assess loading and has requested any needed clarification.
Agree suitable equipment
Ask which equipment is needed and who supplies assistance at collection. A winch alone does not establish that a car with blocked wheels can be loaded. Do not attempt lifting or towing based only on a general online tip. The operator doing the work should choose the method for the actual situation.
Ready when: Your selected carrier has explicitly accepted the described loading job.
Plan unloading and price scope
The same condition will matter at delivery. Tell the recipient what assistance is required and check access for unloading. Separate the vehicle transport and agreed additional help in the quote, so neither end is left to improvise when the transporter arrives. Confirm who coordinates each site.
Ready when: Work, responsible contacts and the total amount are agreed for both locations.
Common mistakes
- Using non-running as the only condition detail.
- Assuming any transporter with a winch is suitable.
- Planning assistance at collection but not at delivery.
Illustrative example
Example: the engine does not start, but all wheels roll and steering works. This gives a carrier more useful information than damaged car. If one wheel is blocked, describe that restriction separately.
This is an illustrative scenario, not a customer case study or an available load.