Have a non-running car that you need transported? Don’t panic, there are many specialised car transport services that operate within Australia that can help. Whether you’re purchasing an old vehicle for restoration, need to transport your car to a mechanic for repairs or have won a vehicle from a salvage auction you probably have several questions about the ins and outs of transporting a non-runner. We are here to help answer these questions so you can start the process of getting your car transported! 

It’s important to remember that moving a damaged vehicle is not the same as standard interstate car transport. It often requires more knowledge, equipment, time and care to be expended to get the salvaged car transported safely. Therefore, most of the major car carriers do not take these vehicles and you will be required to find a specialised service.  As many non-runners can only roll and steer the car transport service may need to use winches and cables to pull the vehicle onto the carrier. Many vehicle transport companies will not allow repairable write-offs to be hauled off the carrier due to the risk of damaging not only your vehicle but theirs as well. Specialised forklifts or flatbed trucks may need to be used on cars with heavy damage that do not break, steer or even roll. 

Ensuring you provide the interstate car transport company with accurate details of the state of the vehicle is imperative to not only getting accurate quotes but also avoiding extra costs later in the shipping journey. If your transport provider goes to collect your vehicle and they don’t have the right equipment due to receiving inaccurate information they may charge futile or cancellation fees. Your delivery may also be delayed which can result in storage fees – particularly if your vehicle is coming from an auction as they often give a short timeframe for items to be collected. To avoid this be sure to detail exactly what damage has been done to the vehicle and if the brakes, steering and wheel function. Providing photos of the vehicle can also help transporters understand what is expected of them. 

If your vehicle is coming from an auction house’s salvage yard, be aware that you will be required to provide documentation to the car transport service to give them authority to take the vehicle on your behalf. Some auction sites will have loading facilities to assist, however, be sure to confirm this prior to collection so your chosen vehicle transport company is aware of what equipment they are required to bring. 

As salvage vehicles are often a lot more delicate than standard cars, you may want to consider an enclosed transport service when researching vehicle movers. Enclosed car transport offers more protection from the elements and foreign debris than open tow trucks and is therefore a preferred option for not only classic and luxury vehicles but for salvage cars as well. While this service is often more expensive than standard interstate car transport, it may be worth considering - especially if your salvage vehicle is your prized possession. 

Here at Truckit.net, we can connect you with local car movers and car movers interstate who have the expertise to transport vehicles with major accident damage or that have come from salvage yards. With our 6000+ transport providers, our platform makes finding someone to move your vehicle easy. Simply create a listing by filling out our quick get a quote form and once it's active your job will be available to our providers to supply quotes. Conducting due diligence is effortless as you can view reviews, completion rates and provider's profiles all in one place. You can even liaise with providers directly through the Truckit messaging service. Then it’s simply a matter of choosing the quote that's right for you to get your salvage car moving.

Do you need a car transport service to move your vehicle over a long distance in Australia? Truckit.net can help! We are an online freight marketplace that connects transport providers with customers looking to move anything, anywhere. So if you’re looking for intrastate or interstate car transport look no further. We have created the following guide to help you better understand the ins and outs of vehicle transport. 

Car transport services are a good alternative for people who cannot drive their car long distances for any number of reasons. Transport companies take the hassle out of moving your vehicle as they are able to pick up and deliver straight to your door. However, they also offer the ability to choose depot-to-depot services for a lower cost. Once your car is picked up it is then loaded onto either a car carrier, sea, air or rail freight carrier and taken to your required destination. Transit times differ depending on the distance to the delivery location and therefore it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to be delivered. 

Long-distance and interstate car transport costs vary depending on a number of factors. These include the size of the vehicle, as smaller cars take up less space on the carrier and therefore have cheaper rates than large SUVs and Utes. Another variable that affects cost is distance, as generally, the further the car has to travel, the more expensive the transport. However, it should be noted that this is not always the case, if the collection or delivery locations are rural they can often be more expensive than a trip between major cities. This can be the case even if the distance between the cities is more than between the remote areas. Finally, the type of truck you would like your vehicle to be shipped in will also affect the price. The most common method for transport is an open car carrier, however, if you are shipping a classic or luxury car you may want to consider an enclosed car service to ensure your vehicle is protected from the elements and road debris. Your car may also be transported via a rail or sea service. Air freight can also be used however, this is usually reserved for luxury vehicles that need to be shipped overseas and is often a costly method of transport. The method of transport should be stated when you receive a quote and it is always good practice to confirm this with the company you book with. 

Consideration should also be made towards transit insurance prior to booking your transport. As the unexpected can occur at any point in the shipping process, it is important to ensure your vehicle is covered. While most major car carriers offer insurance with their service, not all transport operators offer this. If booking on our platform Truckit.net, we recommend that all customers read the terms and conditions of their quote carefully and liaise with providers to confirm if this is an option. We have also partnered with National Transport Insurance to give our customers the chance of adding an insurance premium to their transit quote and this option will be available at checkout. 

Booking Your Long-Distance Vehicle Transport

The process of arranging car transport is easier than you might think! The first step is finding a transport company - which is where we come in. The days of calling a dozen different transport businesses to get a quote are over. With Truckit.net all you need to do is to create a listing and activate it. Your listing will then be visible to our network of transport providers, many of which are specialised car movers interstate, who will supply you with quotes if they can do the job. From there you just need to choose a provider. As we have over 6000 transport providers accredited with us this can be a bit of a daunting task. However, the main things you should look for when making this decision are Price, Reviews and Communication. 

Price

Reviews

Communication

Once you book there is not much else you need to do, depending on the service level you choose. If you select a depot-to-depot service you will need to drop your vehicle off at the depot location and from there the transport company will load your vehicle and it will be shipped to its destination.  However, if you choose a door-to-door service the provider will pick up directly from your residence and the car will then be on its way, ready to be delivered straight to your door. The final steps after your car has been successfully shipped are to confirm delivery, give your transport provider a review and then you’re done! 

Interested in finding car movers interstate with Truckit.net? Get a quote to transport your vehicle today!

Transporting your car within Australia can be an intimidating task due to the number of interstate car transport companies to choose from, the different service levels available and the preparation that goes into moving a vehicle. However, you can make sure this process runs as efficiently as possible by avoiding the following 5 common mistakes.

1. Not Doing Due Diligence

The first and often biggest mistake people make when booking their interstate car transport is not conducting thorough research on the transport companies they are considering. While the majority of freight organisations are legitimate businesses that operate ethically, there is always going to be one bad apple in the bunch - no matter the industry. That is why it is imperative to perform your own due diligence before making any bookings. This should include but is not limited to, reading previous clientele feedback from multiple different trusted review sites, ensuring the business is registered to operate within Australia and liaising with the company directly to ask any questions you may have. When examining the quote you have received be sure to compare them with prices outsourced from other car movers to ensure the quote is fair and matches the current market value. Doing these basic security checks is crucial to determining the authenticity of the transport provider's claims. 

For additional peace of mind, it is also recommended to get referrals from friends, family or people who know the industry such as car dealers or auction sites.

Make sure you check reviews before moving your pride and joy.

2. Choosing the Wrong Service Level

When booking car transport it's easy to become overwhelmed with the vast array of options on offer - particularly with different service levels. The most common services are door-to-door and depot-to-depot and choosing the wrong one is a common booking mistake you should try to avoid.

Door-to-door service refers to when a car transport company picks the vehicle up from a residence or commercial property you specify and deliver it directly to the location you require. Choosing a depot-to-depot service, on the other hand, will require you to drop the car off to their depot and then collect it from a depot. This is often cheaper and quicker than its door-to-door counterpart. Rural and regional areas are likely to only be serviced by companies who can offer direct to door services as major cities are usually where depots are located. However, these depots can sometimes be more than 50kms from the city's centre. Therefore, ensuring you have selected the correct service level will save you a lot of hassle in the long run. We advise that if you’re unsure always contact the transport provider directly, especially if you are booking online.   

3. Not Checking Insurance Policies

Another common error that is made in regard to vehicle transport is the lack of understanding surrounding transit insurance and what it covers. Most car transport services include insurance in their quote terms, however, it is always in your best interest to confirm this directly with them prior to booking. Not only should you check to make sure their insurance is valid you should also examine the policy they offer to ensure it covers the cost of your vehicle. This is especially important if you are shipping a luxury or classic car as these are often more expensive and may require a policy that has more extensive coverage. Learn more about shipping a luxury/classic vehicle here. Consideration may also need to be made into whether the insurance offered also covers any aftermarket additions to the vehicle such as electronics or modifications. You might want to think about purchasing a supplemental insurance premium if these items or the cost of your vehicle aren't covered.  

4. Not Preparing the Car for Transport 

Being unprepared for the car transport service to take your vehicle is also a frequently made mistake. There are several different things you should do to get your vehicle ready for transport. Firstly you should make sure your vehicle is clean to ensure that no remaining debris can damage the car in transit. This will also be helpful for when the company has to conduct inspections and document the condition of the vehicle. Ensuring your vehicle is clean will also reduce the risk of your vehicle being quarantined due to having restricted materials such as plants, insects and food scraps. If these items are found by border agents at quarantine checkpoints, the car transport company will be required to decontaminate the vehicle at an additional cost to you.

In addition to the vehicle inspection report conducted by the freight provider, it is recommended that you complete one yourself by taking photos of the car and noting any existing marks and damage. This is a precaution just in the unlikely chance an insurance claim needs to be made. Mechanical checks of the car should also be performed in preparation of transport. The car’s battery, foot and hand brakes, tyres and windows should all be tested to ensure they are operational. Additionally, any non-factory alarm system you may have fitted into the vehicle should be disabled and the fuel tank should be at least ¼ full to allow for loading and unloading. Finally, you should ensure you have all documentation required ready for when the car movers interstate collect your vehicle. This includes any authorisation documents and invoices if the vehicle is coming from an auction house. 

5. Leaving Personal Belongings Inside the Vehicle 

It may seem like a good idea at the time to fill your car up with all of your personal items, especially if you are relocating along with your vehicle. However, some car transport services do not allow goods to remain inside the vehicle. This could be for various reasons but is most often due to the extra risk of damage to the vehicle as well as the additional weight that is incurred. This can then cause the truck to be over its allocated weight limits which puts the driver and other road users in danger. Some car carriers do offer a ‘goods in car’ service for an additional fee however there are usually strict regulations around this. Common policies include a weight restriction of up to 80kg, goods are designated to the boot of the vehicle and must be in suitcases, boxes or bags and no dangerous goods or perishable items are allowed.  It should be noted that if the transport company allows items in the vehicle, they will likely take no legal responsibility for the safety of these goods. This means if any of your belongings are stolen/damaged or the interior of your vehicle is harmed in any way due to these items, the car carrier will not be at fault, and you will not be able to claim insurance for this. Therefore, we recommend that any valuables you have may be better to be transported separately to your car where they will be covered under transit insurance. 

We understand that getting a car shipped is quite a daunting task, however, avoiding making the above mistakes will ensure a smoother transportation process. At Truckit.net we offer a platform to help make moving your freight easier. So if you need interstate car transport we can help! Simply create a listing and our 6000+ accredited transport providers will supply you with quotes. Performing due diligence on Truckit is effortless with the ability to access the provider's profiles, reviews and job completion rates all in one place. We offer peace of mind with our secure payment methods, partner insurance company NTI, and access to a friendly customer service team who are always there to answer any questions you may have. So what are you waiting for? Click here to get a quote today! 

Are you looking to find luxury or classic car movers interstate? Here at Truckit.net we have over 6000 transport providers accredited with us - including those that specialise in luxury/classic vehicle transport who can help with your move! All you have to do is create a listing, compare quotes and book - it’s as easy as 1,2,3. 

However, before making any decisions there are a few things you need to consider when shipping a luxury/classic vehicle. Read on to find out the key factors to remember within this specialised car transport: 

1. Transport Company

When choosing the transportation company who will move your vehicle it is important that you perform thorough research and due diligence. Checking their reviews from previous clients and ensuring they have experience moving luxury or vintage vehicles is imperative to help you decide if they are the right company to be moving your prized possession. Truckit.net makes this choice easy as we offer a platform that lets you view quotes and previous client feedback from transport companies all in one place. 

2. Transport Method

As your luxury or classic car is most likely a very cherished item it is important when you want interstate car transport that you consider all of the options available. The most common mode of transport for shipping cars is open car carriers, however, this may not be the best option for your classic/luxury car. While this service is often a more affordable option it leaves your vehicle exposed to the elements and any debris that may be along the route. To protect your car from dangers like stone chips and dirt it may be prudent to choose an enclosed car service. For even further safeguarding you also may want to consider a single level enclosed trailer as this allows your vehicle to be the only one being transported. This option will ensure no damage will occur to your vehicle in the unlikely event that other cars on the upper levels spring oil leaks.

Other less common vehicle transport methods include via ship and aeroplane. These options are more frequently used on long distance and international trips, however, if this is your preference here's a few things you should know:

The type of service provided will be stated with all quotes supplied by providers on Truckit.net and you can confirm this with them using the messaging service available on the platform. When creating the listing you can also request that providers issue quotes with enclosed car services only in the ‘other details’ section. 

3. Insurance

A key consideration when booking your luxury vehicle transport is the type and extent of insurance on offer. While most interstate car transport companies will have their own insurance it is important that you ensure their policy covers the cost of your vehicle and any extras such as electronics you may have added to your vehicle. If these aren’t covered you may need to consider getting additional insurance for peace of mind. Truckit.net does have a partnership with National Transport Insurance where customers can purchase insurance when booking, however, this only covers goods up to the value of $50000. As your classic car is likely worth more than this we do recommend ensuring you have the correct coverage by connecting with an insurance broker which can be done here.

4. Preparing the vehicle

Before handing over your vehicle to an interstate car transport company make sure to do the following few things to ensure the process goes smoothly. You should always make sure your vehicle is empty of all personal belongings and both the interior and exterior of the car is clean. A record of the condition of your vehicle should also be made prior to your car transport to avoid any complications if an insurance claim needs to be made. This will require you to take photos of every part of the vehicle, noting any marks that may already be on the surface. This is merely a precaution as you most likely won’t need this inventory, however it is always better to be safe than sorry. As most major car companies don’t take vehicles with any mechanical issues, be sure to do a quick maintenance check on the battery, tire pressure and fluid levels. Also disable any alarms and if your vehicle has any quirks be certain to let your car movers know. If your car has been purchased from an auction site you will also have to provide the transport company documents certifying that they have the authority to pick the vehicle up on your behalf. Any additional steps that need to be taken prior to your vehicle transport will be communicated to you by the car transport service upon booking confirmation - so be sure to be checking your emails.

It is important you keep these factors in mind when making a decision on interstate car transport for your vehicle as they define what level of service you will receive.  Click here to get a quote to move your luxury or classic car today!

So, you’ve just bought a car and you realise it's in another state, or you’ve broken down on your road trip and had to fly home, leaving your car stranded. Whatever the reason might be, you're wanting to transport your vehicle interstate. You’re probably wondering how much it costs to transport a car interstate, and luckily for you, we’ve got the answer.

The answer is not as simple as you might think. There are a lot of factors that contribute to the price of freighting your car, including the vehicle type, the pickup and delivery destinations, what service level you require and the fluctuating cost of fuel. When faced with the variety of transit options available, having an understanding of these factors can assist you in understanding how much you’ll be out of pocket. 

Using our experts, we’ve put together the following guide to assist your comprehension of what variables influence the cost of interstate auto shipping.

1. Distance

One of the biggest impacts on the cost of interstate car freight is the distance it needs to travel. More often than not, the further your vehicle is being transported, the more expensive the job will be. Car carriers consider cost per kilometre to be one of their largest considerations when calculating quotes. On average, it costs between 40-60 cents per kilometre to move your car interstate. However, this price is influenced by many other factors which will be discussed in further sections of this guide. 

2. Type of Vehicle

A major factor that can determine the cost of transport is the type of vehicle you are moving. Larger vehicles such as vans, SUVs or Utes occupy a greater amount of the car carrier's limited space and therefore will be more expensive to ship than more compact automobiles. Modifications made to the car, such as alterations to the tyres or suspension will also affect the price as some companies consider weight when calculating rates. 

Some of the most popular cars to transport interstate and locally are:

Transporting premium vehicles can also affect the price of shipping as often this requires services such as enclosed car carriers. These carriers are smaller trailers that are sealed off from the outside environment and are also available for short-term rental for extra security. Due to the additional protection against the elements and potential pitfalls on the road like rocks and debris, this service is recommended for those looking for increased peace of mind.

3. Additional Extras

Another variable that will impact the cost of transportation is whether you are needing items to be transported within the vehicle as well. Many of the major car carriers require that you remove all belongings from the interior of the vehicle, however, some providers do offer a ‘Goods in Car’ service for an additional fee. Although this cost might not be exorbitant, it should be considered when determining your budget. It should also be noted that there are many conditions within the ‘Goods in Car’ service which will vary depending on the provider: Below are some common stipulations:

It is important to note that several of the larger car carriers don’t pick up from salvage yards or repairable write-offs, so it is important to ensure you are reading terms and conditions carefully when choosing your provider. If your vehicle is non-running, this will also affect the price and the provider you use as this will often require a specialised service. It’s important to ensure if you’re  buying a used car to gather information regarding its drivability and if it is coming from salvage. 

4. Service Level

Car carriers have multiple service delivery levels available to customers that affect car transportation costs. The two most popular service levels are door-to-door and depot-to-depot. It is important you evaluate your own requirements and select a service level that suits these needs. 

What Is a Door-To-Door Service?

Door-to-door is a delivery service level that involves transport providers picking up from and dropping off at an exact address, whether it be a residential or a commercial property. This service is often more expensive as it requires the provider to deviate from their usual route. This fee can be costly when delivering to remote areas. 

If pickup and delivery locations are near highways or in major cities, you may find the cost of a door-to-door delivery isn’t that much more than a depot-to-depot. Door-to-door delivery can also offer greater flexibility, as some drivers are willing to collect or deliver cars outside of regular business hours, including on weekends, in the early morning, late afternoon or even at night.

Residential zoning regulations, narrow roadways, weight restrictions or blockages preventing ease of access can limit your delivery options so it’s best to check your route before booking.

What Is a Depot-To-Depot Service?

Depot-to-depot delivery is a service level that customers use when they prioritise price over convenience. This delivery service requires customers to drop off and pick up their vehicle from a depot themselves. Since transport providers don’t have to detour from their regular route, the cost is typically less than door-to-door. 

Convenience can be found within this service level as depot-to-depot delivery is often quicker as major car carriers aren’t required to outsource tow truck companies to collect and deliver to residential addresses. 

Some disadvantages of a depot-to-depot service include:

5. Fuel

Trucking companies have several expenses that can affect the cost of car transport interstate. One of their biggest expenses is the cost of fuel. As diesel has risen by over 60 cents per litre since 2021, many transport organisations have had to raise their prices to cover this expense. This has been one of the most influencing factors affecting the price of shipping a car and should be kept in mind when gathering quotes.

At Truckit, we aim to make the transport process as easy as possible for our users. When you create a listing, we connect you with thousands of transport providers across Australia to get your car safely delivered. Find out which provider is best for you by exploring customer reviews and job history on our website. If you’re ready to get a quote and find all your car transport interstate costs, visit our insterstate car transportation page. 

Understanding some of the most common freight shipping acronyms related to logistics and transportation will assist you in tackling quotes and shipping contracts with confidence. We have collated some of the most common freight terms that you will see here on Truckit.net when discussing your freight listing with one of our Transport Providers & Customer Support Staff.

Owner Operator

Freight Broker/Agent

A Freight broker is an agent between shippers and carriers. Instead of taking possession of the freight, the broker facilitates communication between the shipper and the carrier. They’re the ones making sure the handoff goes smoothly between carriers and shippers, and that freight arrives safely & on time.

Some shippers like working with freight brokers because they have a single point of contact from point A to point B while their freight moves to its destination. Working with a broker can eliminate the need to negotiate with a carrier, planning routes, and tracking freight. Some carriers also like working with freight brokers to optimise their routes and minimise dead kilometers, boosting their earnings in less time.

Cubic Weight

Also known as Volumetric Weight, and is a pricing technique for commercial freight transport which assigns a weight based on the volume of an item. For example, many pallet carriers use the cubic weight conversion of 1m3 = 333kg. Even though an item may only weigh 4kg, due to its size, it may be 15kg of cubic weight. For example, a large blanket might be relatively light, but large in size.

Door to Door / Depot to Depot

Single Transit Insurance

Consignee/Consignor

Consignment Note

Flatbed

A flatbed trailer is a typical open deck trailer that has no roof nor sides. It is mainly used for transporting heavy, oversized, wide and indelicate goods such as machinery, building supplies or equipment. The flatly shaped body makes it much easier to load and unload goods using ramps or lifting equipment.

Surcharges

A surcharge is an extra fee charged by a company to cover costs of one form or another. One example is a payment surcharge which may be charged by some merchants when a customer elects to pay by cheque, credit card, charge card or debit card. This covers the merchant’s costs (usually bank costs) of accepting this payment. 

Other types of charges:

Dangerous Goods

CAR SPECIFIC:

Auction House

Salvage Yard

Drivable

Goods in Car

Driven Service

Although it is not recommended, car transport businesses may allow you to transport personal items with your car whilst it is in transit. If you choose to transport personal items with your car, we have collated some tips and to-do’s to make sure you have packaged all of your items appropriately according to the guidelines.

Items must be under the windows

There are two main reasons why the personal items you pack need to be under the height of the car windows.

  1. The transporter’s safety: the driver who is transporting your items needs to be able to see clearly out of all windows so they can drive your vehicle on and off the truck. 
  2. To prevent theft: Car shipping truckers don’t just go straight through from one destination to another, they make frequent stops at rest areas. If your vehicle is full to the brim with items, it produces a huge risk of theft. There may be some opportunistic thieves that see your car is full, and whether the items are of value or not, may try and take anything they can if they get into your vehicle. Packing the items below the window line drastically reduces the visibility, therefore lessening the chance of theft.

If your transporter shows up and your vehicle is packed to the brim with personal items that are beyond the window line, they may refuse to take your vehicle for liability and safety reasons. They most likely will charge you additional fees if this is a breach of any contracts you signed regarding the transport of personal items within your vehicle. 

Think about any potential damages

A car sitting potentially upon another car on a transport truck isn’t the most smooth ride and there will be lots of vibrations and shifting, so you need to make sure that all of the items that are in your car are packed securely and safely. If items are not secure, there is a high risk of them shifting around and causing internal damage to your vehicle. Additionally, any damage that is caused by your items or the extra weight they add is not insured. Packing these items in your car is at your own risk, not the transport provider.

When shipping personal items in your vehicle, use common sense and pack non-valuable items. If the items in the car are easily replaced, then go for it. If they are highly valuable or sentimental and will not be easily replaced if damaged or stolen, it is HIGHLY recommended that you do not ship them with your vehicle.

A recommended way of making sure all personal items are secure and not going to cause internal damage to your car is by packing all of the items in suitcases, duffle bags, or boxes.

Limitations

While it is understood that sometimes there is no choice but to ship personal items with your vehicle, it is important to know why it is discouraged by many companies, and the risks involved.

If you don’t have that one mate who knows everything about cars, keep reading to find out what to look for when buying a second-hand vehicle!

Confirm that the seller is the person who owns the car

You won’t be charged for unknowingly buying a stolen car, but the car may be repossessed and returned to its owner. You can confirm this with a Personal Property Securities Register (PPSR) search (previously known as a VIN check). It costs just $2 and is well worth it for the peace of mind. You can compare the information that this check provides with the seller’s current registration papers.

Check for accident damage

First and foremost, you’ll want to find out whether the car has been in an accident and, if so, how severe it was. The above PPSR check won’t reveal every accident the car has been in, however it will tell you if the car has been previously written off. Some repairable write-offs are fixable, and are fixed. They are also then inspected and reregistered, but the standard of repairs may be poor, putting you at risk, so it is best to conduct through checks in this process.

Many road accidents are minor, and the damage repair is to a high standard, so don’t rule out all cars that have been involved in accidents. At the very least the seller should produce a valid road-worthy (safety) certificate.

Under the bonnet check

This may seem like something you shouldn’t have to check if the car has a valid road worthy certificate or if its PPSR check came back clean, however, any build-up of dirt and road grime that appears caked on is often a sign of fluid leaks. As well as the engine, check underneath the car as fluids tend to also leak beneath the car, which is another tell-tale sign!

Used car buyers should expect signs of wear and tear, which typically reflect the age of the vehicle. Excessive wear and tear may warrant a price decrease, assuming you don’t simply walk away because the wear and tear is too extreme.

Inspect the Panels and Paint

In an ideal world, body panels should be free of dents, dings, rust, chips and oxidation. However, like we said above, used car buyers should expect signs of wear and tear in second-hand vehicles. 

If you look closely at the car upon further inspection, you might be able to pick-up that the car has other/more previous damage than the seller is letting on. Maybe there are wider than normal gaps between body panels, or some slightly bubbled paint. The bubbled paint may suggest that it hasn’t had sufficient coverage from weather elements, and that unseen rust that the car might have, has spread from the inside panels. Another cause for this is that the car has not been washed regularly enough.

Another aspect of the car to check is that the doors are swinging properly, that they close with ease, and that the seals are still waterproof. If the door sags on its hinges when opened, there is a likely chance of poorly repaired accident damage.

Inside the Car

A quick inside checklist:

Examine the Tyres

The legal minimum tread for car wheels is 1.5mm across the face of the contact surface.

What to look out for:

Excessive Wear: this may indicate poor driving practices and potentially warrants another closer look at the other car’s components like mentioned above.

Uneven Wear on Front Tyres: may indicate that the wheels are misaligned.

Uneven Wear on Rear Tyres: may indicate irreparably bent or warped chassis.

Tread Crowning & Cupping: is not as common as other tyre wear and tear, but it is when the wear is heavier on the outside & inside edges of the tyres. This indicates that the wheels have been driven on in both under-inflated conditions and over-inflated conditions.

Many may hope that sellers are responsible enough to replace these tyres before selling their car to up its market value.

Testing the Transmission

If the transmission isn’t working, the car isn’t going anywhere! Here’s what to check:

Auto Vehicles

When checking for leaks under the bonnet and beneath the car, check for a reddish coloured fluid, this is your transmission fluid. Excessive dirty fluid may be caused by poor vehicle maintenance and can cause automatic vehicles especially to perform poorly.

Additionally, if there is a lapse between the shift of gears when moving the gear selector and the transmission engaging, there is a likely problem. When driving automatic, gears should change smoothly, and jerky shifts are a sign of a weakening transmission.

Manual Vehicles

In a manual vehicle, when you press down on the clutch, you should feel consistent pressure through the full length of the pedal. If it's a soft or ‘spongy’ feeling, this is due to potential damage or leaking fluid lines. To test the clutch, put the car in neutral with the handbrake on and press the clutch pedal down, holding it for a couple of seconds before releasing. You will want to do this two or three times. If there is any squeaking or similar sounds when you engage the clutch, you will want to inspect the transmission more carefully.

If you believe there are issues with the car’s transmission, and are still interested in the vehicle, getting a qualified mechanic to inspect it will minimise the likelihood you end up with a poorly working vehicle. 

What to look for when driving

When you are buying a second-hand car, it is most ideal if you can get the chance to test-drive it. Preferably you would want to test drive it on quieter roads so you concentrate more on the sounds of the car than the outside traffic noise. Take your time with this step, don’t just take it for one spin around the block; test the speeds, test the turning, accelerating and decelerating both on flat roads and uphill, and reversing… you might pick up on more than you realise. 

When driving, also look out for any warning lights and keep an eye on the temperature gauge. Listen for any rattling or other body noises - driving over speed bumps is a good check for this. On a straight road, ease your grip on the steering wheel and see if the car pulls to one side, which can indicate work suspension or misaligned steering.

The car is in another state... don't fret!

If your car is in another state, make sure you ask for as many photos as you need so you can make the best informed decision you can make. Check to see if you have any friends or family in the state where the car is located, see if they can go and make any further checks & test drive the car for you!

If everything ticks these boxes (at least for the most part), you’re ready to go!

And, if you need your car transported interstate, list your car on Truckit.net here: https://www.truckit.net/get-a-quote/cars

Backloading your car interstate or for long-haul moves is a simple way to move your car that saves time, money and stress, as well as wear and tear on your vehicle. 

Truckit.net is your trusted name when it comes to backloading transport, and our services are built to transport cars and motor vehicles of all sizes. No matter the reason for moving, our network of professional and experienced operators will ensure your cars are delivered to your destination safely at an affordable price.

What does Car backloading mean? 

Car backloading takes the stress and hassle out of transporting your car interstate or around the corner. Opting for a privately hired truck means you will need to cover for the entire rental cost, regardless of how much space your vehicle takes up on the load. Car companies with car carries will also charge higher than backload.

This approach can be expensive and annoying, especially for those that own smaller cars. Backloading reduces this unnecessary cost, as you will only pay for your share of the delivery. If your vehicle fills 25% of the truck’s load capacity, then you only pay 25% of the cost incurred in getting to the final destination. 

At Truckit.net, we work with a range of different trucks and providers across the country. We aim to capitalise on their return trips or any vacant space on their already chartered journeys. The beauty of our expansive network means we can find an option for practically any delivery requirement, while also keeping the car transport costs down for individual customers. Customers can save up to 75% on costs by avoiding hire fees. We also maximise the return leg of a truck trip, which ensures the original customers are only liable for their portion of the journey.

Why should I backload my car? 

Transporting your car via a backload interstate or on a long-haul journey allows you to save time, money and unnecessary stress. No matter the size of your car, the Truckit.net platform can find a truck willing to transport it to your final destination. The cost-savings of only paying for the one-way trip of the truck means you’ll receive a lower rate than is possible from a privately chartered journey. 

For many people, a car is one of their most valuable and important possessions. Driving the vehicle for interstate or long-distance moves will add plenty of kilometres to the car’s odometer. This added mileage will not only significantly hinder the value of the car but will also incur excessive wear and tear. Transporting your vehicle on a backload will safely deliver your vehicle to its final destination, without unnecessary damage or devaluation. 

In our increasingly environmental-conscious climate, many people are reluctant to drive their cars for long-distances or hire a truck just for the move. However, the beauty of backloading is that you can make multiple deliveries on one trip, and the return leg is also capitalised on for additional deliveries. By combining numerous deliveries, you will exponentially decrease your impact on the environment, while still getting your car to where it needs to be. 

Finally, life is busy! Do you really have time to be driving your car across the country? By backloading your vehicle on a truck, you won’t even need to lift a finger, and the job will be done! It’s the simplest solution on the market.

How does Truckit.net work? 

Truckit.net aims to connect customers wanting to relocate their vehicle, with truck drivers that can carry out the job. work alongside 100s of operators across the country, and we manage numerous routes every single day of the week. Our services cater to those moving between major cities, as well as those looking to reach regional or rural locations. 

After we’ve established your budget, timeline, vehicle size and other relevant needs, we will source numerous quotes for the job. When we have secured a diverse range of drivers that are available and can meet your requirements, we give you the flexibility and authority to choose the option that best suits you. 

By working in conjunction with various different drivers, we can work around cars of all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s a once-off job or an ongoing agreement,  you can trust Truckit.net to get your car safely, securely and on-time to its final destination.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How much does backloading a car cost? 

The cost of backloading a vehicle is on average between $400 and $1300 on truckit.net. Cost may vary depending on the vehicle size, required delivery timeframe and starting and finishing location. 

There is no minimum budget required for car delivery jobs. However, we do encourage responsible and considered pricing as this will allow the truck drivers to adhere to the necessary transport safety practices. 

There is also no set number of car backloading quotes that you will receive on your listing. If you are not receiving enough quotes we recommend that you increase your budget to gain more interest from transport providers. We aim to provide a diverse and comprehensive selection of operators so that you can choose the provider that best suits your budget and other requirements.

Will my car be safe on a backload? 

Truckit.net has extensive experience in the car transport and backloading industry, and our platform has drivers and freight providers from all corners of the country. Through this process, we have identified the operators that offer the most comprehensive and regulated safety precautions. These registered and approved providers of Truckit.net will care for your car like it is their own, so you have the peace of mind that your prized possession is in safe hands.

Do I need to insure my car for the journey? 

While we do work alongside the most experienced and trusted freight providers in the country, we do recommend our customers take out Car Backload Single Transit Insurance. Single transit insurance is a simple and affordable way to protect yourself from any unlikely but potential risk, and will give you an added layer of security if something does go wrong. If you have any further questions or would like assistance with this process, please contact the Truckit.net team for information. 

When you are looking to move your car, it is important to understand what goes into determining the cost. Truckit.net receives thousands of enquiries a month for car transport quotes so we have developed a handy guide on things you should consider.

Difference between Depot to Depot and Door to Door transport

A Depot to Depot service requires you to drop off and pick up your car from the transporters depot. Transporters usually have depots in major cities and towns. Depot to Depot is often the cheapest option but requires a little bit of work on your behalf.

A Door to Door service is where the transporter will pickup your car from your house or business and deliver directly to another house or business. This can sometimes be more expensive then Depot to Depot and take a little bit longer.

Do you need open or enclosed transport?

There are different vehicle and trailer types that transporters use to move your car. Enclosed transport will keep your car safe and clean from road grime but tends to cost a bit more. Open transport varies from small car trailers to large car carriers and is often cheaper than enclosed.

Is your car drivable or a non-runner?

If your car is a non-runner or does not drive it will usually require a special truck or trailer. This can sometimes cost more than a standard car carrier. Luckily Truckit.net has a network of transporters who can provide services for runners and non-runners.

Would you consider a driven service?

A driven service is where a driver will turn up and drive your car from point A to B. A driven service can often be quicker than a trucked service but you should consider things like the cost and maintenance requirements of your car.

How to save money on your car transport

Book in advance. Being flexible and giving yourself plenty of time will allow you to get the best quotes from transporters.

Use Truckit.net to compare a number of quotes. Truckit.net provides instant quotes for eligible cars on most major routes, as well as giving you access to our network of 5,000+ transport companies who can help move your car.

Click here to get Car Transport quotes