How to Ship a Classic Sports Car Without Damage

Classic sports cars are more than just vehicles—they’re valuable investments that require special care during transport. Whether you're shipping a vintage Ferrari, Porsche, or Mustang, it’s essential to take the right precautions. Here’s how to ship your classic sports car safely.

✅ 1. Choose Enclosed Transport – Never Open Transport

Open transport exposes your vehicle to the elements, making it unsuitable for classic sports cars.

✅ Why Enclosed Transport?

• Protection from Weather & Debris – Shields your car from rain, snow, and dust.
• Hydraulic Lift Gates – Prevents scraping for low-clearance vehicles.
• Soft Tie-Downs – Avoids undercarriage damage.
• Better Security – Less risk of theft or vandalism.

Ensure your transporter uses enclosed carriers with air-ride suspension for a smoother ride.

✅ 2. Pick a Transport Company That Specializes in Classic Cars

Not every shipping company is qualified to handle vintage vehicles. Choose a transporter with:

• Experience with Classic & Exotic Cars – Verify their expertise.
• Licensed & Insured Carriers – Check their USDOT and FMCSA registration.
• Positive Reviews & Reputation – Read customer feedback.
• Real-Time Tracking – Ensure you get updates during transport.

✅ 3. Preparing Your Classic Sports Car for Shipping

✅ Do a Complete Inspection & Take Photos

• Take high-resolution photos of your car from all angles.
• Document any existing scratches, dents, or imperfections.

✅ Secure Loose Parts & Convertible Tops

• Remove or secure antennas, mirrors, and trim.
• Fasten convertible tops properly.

✅ Reduce Fuel Levels

Keep the fuel tank at ¼ or less to reduce weight.

✅ Remove Personal Items

Take out valuable accessories, paperwork, and belongings.

✅ 4. Insurance – Protecting Your Investment

Classic sports cars can be expensive to restore, so having the right insurance coverage is crucial.

✅ What You Need to Verify:

• Does the transport company provide full insurance coverage?
• Does your personal insurance cover transport damage?
• Do you need extra insurance for rare or high-value vehicles?

Request a copy of the carrier’s insurance policy and confirm coverage amounts before shipping.

✅ 5. Inspect Your Classic Car After Delivery

• Compare the car’s condition to the pre-shipping photos.
• Note any scratches, dents, or damage on the Bill of Lading.
• Report any issues to the carrier immediately.

How to Insure Your Sports Car During Transport

Even with enclosed transport, accidents can happen. Here’s how to ensure your sports car is fully protected during shipping.

✅ 1. Understand the Carrier’s Insurance Policy

Before shipping, always ask the transport company for proof of insurance.

✅ What to Verify:

• Coverage Amount – Does it match your car’s value?
• Deductibles – Who is responsible if damage occurs?
• Types of Damage Covered – Does it include weather, theft, or transit-related damage?

✅ 2. Check Your Own Auto Insurance

• Contact your provider to see if transport damage is covered.
• For high-value sports cars, consider collector car insurance.

✅ 3. Consider Additional Gap Insurance

If your car’s value exceeds the transporter’s coverage, gap insurance may be necessary.

• Covers the difference between your car’s value and the carrier’s policy.
• Recommended for luxury, exotic, and classic cars.

✅ 4. Inspect the Car Before & After Shipping

✅ Before Shipping:

• Take high-resolution photos from multiple angles.
• Get a signed Bill of Lading confirming the car’s condition.

✅ Upon Delivery:

• Inspect the car before signing off.
• Compare its condition with pre-shipping photos.
• Report any damage immediately.

Final Thoughts

Classic and high-performance sports cars require special care during shipping. Choosing enclosed transport, verifying insurance coverage, and properly preparing your vehicle will help ensure a safe and smooth process.

Looking for a trusted auto transport partner? Get a free quote from TCI Logistics today:

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