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If you own a classic, vintage, or antique vehicle, it’s more than just a car—it’s a prized possession, a piece of history, and a major investment. When it comes time to move it, whether for a show, a restoration project, or a sale, the idea of handing the keys over to a transport company can be nerve-wracking.
The short answer to the question, “Is my car too old to ship?” is absolutely not. However, the process requires specialized care, attention, and a different approach than shipping a new SUV.
At EasyGo Logistics, we understand that classic cars demand specialized knowledge. Here is your expert guide to preparing and safely transporting your treasured classic vehicle.
1. The Critical Choice: Why You Need Enclosed Transport
While Open Trailer Shipping is the most cost-effective and common method, it is rarely recommended for valuable classic or antique cars.
Enclosed Transport: The VIP Treatment
For any vehicle that you consider a high-value asset, Enclosed Trailer Shipping is the gold standard. This service provides a fully covered, sealed environment that protects your car from every potential road hazard:
Weather Damage: Total protection from rain, snow, hail, and harsh sunlight.
Road Debris: Shielded from dust, dirt, rocks, and road salt kicked up by other vehicles.
Security: Out of sight and out of mind, reducing attention from thieves and onlookers.
Expert Tip (E-E-A-T Signal): Ask your shipper if the enclosed trailer uses a soft-tie down system or wheel nets. Classic cars, especially pre-war models, should never be secured by hooking chains to the frame, which can cause damage.
2. Preparation: The Unique Checklist for Antique Vehicles
Classic cars often have unique needs that differ from modern vehicles. Following these specialized preparation steps is crucial for a smooth transport process.
| Item | Classic Car Requirement | Why It Matters |
| Fluids | Check for any minor leaks (oil, transmission, or coolant). | Old seals and gaskets are prone to minor leaks. Inform your carrier of any existing drips to prevent contamination of the trailer or other vehicles. |
| Battery | Ensure a full charge and a secure connection. | Many antique cars do not hold a charge as well as modern cars. If the car is Inoperable, you must notify us so we dispatch a specialized truck with a winch. |
| Loose Parts | Remove all non-fixed accessories (antennas, spoilers, luggage racks). | Older chrome or plastic parts can be fragile and are susceptible to wind or vibration damage on the road. |
| Fuel Level | Keep the tank near a quarter-full. | This minimizes weight (saving fuel costs for the carrier) while providing enough gas for the loading and unloading process. |
The Value of Documentation
Before the carrier arrives, document your vehicle extensively. Take high-resolution photographs of every panel, paying close attention to any pre-existing chips, scratches, or dings. This serves as your authoritative proof of condition and is vital for any insurance claim, no matter how minor.
3. The Insurance and Valuation Question (Trustworthiness)
A standard carrier insurance policy often covers vehicles up to $250,000, which is sufficient for most modern cars. However, certain rare classics may be valued higher.
Always discuss your vehicle’s appraised value with your shipping advisor.
Carrier Insurance: Every carrier in our network is fully insured. This coverage protects your vehicle against damage caused by the carrier (e.g., collision, fire).
Your Personal Insurance: Contact your personal classic car insurer (like Hagerty or Grundy). In many cases, they offer a rider or endorsement that extends your policy’s coverage while the vehicle is in transit. This is the safest way to ensure coverage up to your full appraised value.
4. The Driver: Experience is Not Negotiable
When shipping a classic car, the driver’s experience (the first ‘E’ in E-E-A-T) is paramount. It takes a different skillset to handle a 1930s coupe than a 2020 sedan.
When you choose EasyGo Logistics, you benefit from:
Vetted Carriers: We partner with over 15,000 fully licensed and insured carriers. For classic cars, we select drivers with a verifiable track record and expertise in using enclosed trailers and delicate loading procedures.
Specialized Equipment: We ensure the carrier has the low-clearance ramps and lift gates often required to safely load vehicles with vintage suspension or ground effects.
Shipping your classic car doesn’t have to be stressful. By choosing Enclosed Transport and partnering with a transparent, experienced broker like EasyGo Logistics, you ensure your piece of automotive history arrives safely in showroom condition.
Ready to move your classic car with confidence? Get Your Quote Today!