Simple steps to make sure your vehicle makes the journey safe and sound
When your car needs to be towed over a long distance — whether it’s moving interstate, transporting a non-runner to a specialist mechanic, or relocating a classic car you’ve been restoring — it’s not as simple as just loading it onto a truck and waving goodbye.
We handle long-distance tows all across Victoria (and beyond), and we’ve seen it all — from customers who did everything right to those who didn’t secure loose items and ended up with a boot full of flying tools. So if you want to save yourself stress, damage, or an unexpected delay, here’s how to get your car ready the smart way.
1. Clean Out the Car (Yes, Even the Boot)
This might seem like a minor detail, but it’s a big one. Loose items inside your car can roll around, shift during transport, or even damage interior panels — especially over bumpy highways or winding country roads.
We once transported a car from Melbourne to Bendigo, and the owner had left a toolbox in the back seat. A sudden brake during traffic knocked it into the door panel — cracked the trim and left a deep scratch. Not fun for anyone.
Take out:
- Water bottles
- Chargers
- Shopping bags
- Loose coins (you’ll thank us later)
- That half-empty umbrella rolling around in the boot
Basically, if it’s not bolted down, remove it.
2. Check for Leaks and Fluid Levels
Your tow truck operator will appreciate this — trust us.
While minor leaks might seem harmless, they can drip onto the truck bed or other vehicles if part of a multi-car transport. Worse, they can pose safety hazards. Give the car a quick inspection underneath. If there’s a puddle or any fresh fluid marks, it’s worth noting.
If you’re not sure, top up your fluids:
- Engine oil
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Coolant
Even if the car isn’t running, this helps ensure no components dry out during the trip — especially if the tow involves a push-on or pull-off situation.
3. Inflate Tyres to the Right Pressure
Even though your car’s being towed, it still needs to roll smoothly and safely — especially if it’s being winched or rolled onto a flatbed. Underinflated tyres make that harder, and in some cases, can damage your wheels.
Check all four tyres (and the spare, just in case) and pump them up to the recommended PSI listed on your door sticker or owner’s manual.
One client from Frankston had a flat rear tyre on their classic Ford Falcon during a transport to Ballarat. The extra time needed to fix it delayed loading and added cost. Avoidable? Completely.
4. Secure or Fold In Mirrors and Antennas
This one’s often overlooked. Folding in your side mirrors (especially if they’re manual or fragile) and removing any detachable antennas reduces the chance of damage during loading or while in transit.
If you have roof racks, light bars, or other accessories, make sure they’re tight and properly secured. If in doubt, remove them. Highway winds at 100km/h can do more damage than you’d think.
5. Disable the Alarm System
There’s nothing quite like having a car alarm go off at 3am in the back of a transport truck — and not being able to stop it because the key fob is buried in a moving box two states away.
Before handing over the keys, disable any aftermarket alarms or immobilisers. It makes the driver’s job easier and avoids unnecessary drama.
6. Document the Condition Beforehand
Take photos. Front, back, both sides, and close-ups of any existing scratches or dents. It’s a good idea not just for peace of mind, but also for your records in case you need to file an insurance claim (which, in our experience, is rare — but it’s better to be safe).
Bonus tip: If your car has any mechanical quirks — like a loose bumper, faulty handbrake, or doors that don’t shut properly — let the towing company know beforehand. It saves time and helps us plan for loading.
7. Leave Just Enough Fuel — Not a Full Tank
It’s a bit counterintuitive, but for long-distance towing, you don’t want a full tank. The extra weight adds to transport costs and isn’t needed if the car isn’t being driven. On the flip side, don’t run it bone dry either — especially if the car needs to be started at the drop-off point.
A quarter tank is usually the sweet spot.
8. Check Your Insurance Coverage
Depending on how far you’re transporting the car and its value, you might want to check whether your insurance covers the car while it’s being towed. Most policies do — especially if you’re using a licensed towing company — but it’s worth a quick phone call.
Some people assume all risks are on the tow company, but it’s always better to know exactly how you’re covered from both ends.
9. Provide Clear Instructions and Contact Info
If someone else is receiving the car at the destination, give the towing company their name and number. If there’s a special gate code or a tricky driveway, let the driver know in advance. The smoother the handover, the quicker your vehicle gets safely parked and offloaded.
Getting your car ready for a long-distance tow doesn’t take much time, but it makes a big difference. A little preparation goes a long way — it saves delays, avoids damage, and gives you peace of mind that your vehicle’s going to arrive exactly the way it left.
And remember, we’re not just here to tow — we’re here to help. So if you’re unsure about anything before the big move, just give us a call. We’ll walk you through it and make sure your car’s good to go — one kilometre or a thousand.
If you are in Bangholme, and looking for a tow truck service, this is the best way to visit us.
Cranbourne Tow Trucks
39 S Gippsland Hwy, Cranbourne VIC 3977
(03) 7042 2059