Classic car towing is a niche yet crucial service that Classic Car enthusiasts often need. Understanding how towing a classic can save you from unwanted stress and potential damage to your valuable vehcile. We deep-dive into you need to know about towing your classic, from the factors to consider, to the selection of a reliable auto shipping company.
If you're the proud owner of a classic car, the thought of towing your vintage vehicle can be nerve-racking. Your classic car isn't just a means of transport - it's a significant investment and, in many cases, a piece of history. Classic cars require a unique level of care and attention, especially when it comes to towing long distance.
What Makes Towing a Classic Vehicle Different?
Classic car towing is not the same as regular vehicle towing. Due to their age, unique structures, and sometimes rare parts, classics need to be handled with extreme care.
Even a minor mistake during the towing process can result in costly damages. Therefore, professional towing services use specialized equipment and methods to ensure the safety of your vehicle.
Ensuring Safe Journey with Enclosed Trucks
When it comes to additional protection, enclosed auto transport is the ultimate choice for towing due to the enhanced protection it provides. This mode of transportation ensures your car is enclosed on all sides, shielding it from environmental elements, road debris, and prying eyes during transit. Regular tow trucks will fall short in these cases.
Enclosed carriers often have lift gates and soft tie-down systems. This level of care is indispensable for owners who have invested significantly in their classic vehicles or antique cars and want to preserve their pristine condition. This is especially convenient for car shows where having your vintage beauty shine matters most.
Advantages of Using Enclosed Auto Transport
- Superior Protection Enclosed transport shields your car from weather elements, dust, road debris, and potential dings or scratches. This is especially important for classic cars, which may have rare or hard-to-replace parts that are impossible to replace if there's an accident.
- PrivacyBy transporting in an enclosed carrier, your classic car is kept out of sight. This can be beneficial if you have a particularly valuable vehicle and are concerned about theft.
- Specialized Loading and UnloadingEnclosed auto transport often uses hydraulic lift gates for loading and unloading. This feature is critical for classic cars that might have low ground clearance or in sensitive condition.
Flatbed Towing for Classic Cars
Flatbed tow trucks have a long, flat bed at the back. The car is hoisted onto this bed, ensuring all four wheels are off the ground, eliminating the risk of damage while in transit. This is great for short distances where enclosed shipping could be overdoing it.
Open Carrier
Open carrier is a great option if the vehicle is not yet restored or a daily driver that is normally outside. However, if the vehicle is a fragile barn find or has exposed interior or has signs of rust or has loose parts, it may not be enough.
Choosing a Classic Car Towing Service
Selecting the right towing service can make a world of difference. It's not just about the cost but the company’s expertise and reputation. Look for a service provider with positive reviews, years of experience in classic car towing, and a solid track record.
Companies specializing in classic car towing will understand your vehicle's unique needs. They'll have the appropriate tools and expertise to handle your car carefully and efficiently. Be sure to ask potential service providers about their experience with your particular make and model.
Preparation for Towing
Before your classic car is towed, make a checklist of things to do to ensure your vehicle's safety. These include:
- Removing loose items: Ensure there are no loose items in the car that could move around and cause damage during transport.
- Checking for leaks: Classic cars are known for their leaks. If your car leaks oil or other fluids, let the tow truck know in advance.
- Disabling the alarm: To prevent the alarm from going off during transit, it's a good idea to disable it.
- Taking photos: Take detailed photos of your car before it's towed. This can act as a reference in case of any damage claims.
Insurance and Licensing
It's imperative that the towing professional you choose is licensed and insured. If anything were to happen during transit, you want to ensure you're covered. Always ask for proof of licensing and insurance before choosing a service provider.
Classic Car Towing - Summing Up
Classic car towing requires specialist knowledge and equipment. When choosing a towing service, you must ensure they have the expertise to handle your vehicle.
Open transport is just fine if your vehicle is a daily driver or not yet restored. Just keep in mind if the vehicle is fragile open may not be the best option.
Enclosed auto transport is the go-to option for restored vehicles or preserved ones in original condition. It offers superior protection and ensures privacy. While the costs might be higher compared to open transport or flatbed shipping, the peace of mind and level of protection you get are worth the investment.
Remember, the classic car towing company you choose should be fully licensed and insured, and have a strong reputation. Preparation is key to a successful experience. By following these guidelines, you can be confident your classic car will be transported safely and securely.
As you can see, finding a tow truck to reach your destination doesn't have to be a difficult task. With the right knowledge and a careful approach, your classic car can be safely transported, ready for you to enjoy.
