No one wants to think about shipping their car, especially not when relocating. You obviously will have questions about the process. Many car owners wonder if they need to supply a spare key for auto transport, which they have in common. Yes, it is a good idea to provide a spare key. What is it that causes such thing and what sort of a role does it play in shipping? If you’re shipping your vehicle with the help of a transporter, having a spare key ready can help make things so much easier. In this guide, we will take a closer look at why this is the case as well as what you can expect from the transporter. Furthermore, we will talk about how to prepare your vehicle for the transport.
1. Why is extra key a necessity for transporting your automobile?
Most auto transport companies will need to access your car to unload it. Thus, they will need a key. You can ship a vehicle without a spare key. However, not having a spare key can create problems for everybody during shipping. So, having a spare key is much more convenient.
Good Reasons for Justifying Spare Key Need
The carrier may need access to the vehicle to move it or adjust it during the shipping process on the transport truck. The driver may have to start the engine or reposition the vehicle. If you lock one of their cars and only give the primary key, the transporter will have trouble moving it.
Though uncommon, accidents may happen during the transport of the pet. If the transporter has to drive your car down the truck or move it for some reason, a spare key will ensure that there is no delay in doing so.
When the transporter has to drop the vehicle off at an area with limited access, they may need to retrieve the car to move it to a better spot. Without the key, they may be able to perform this task, but not efficiently.
To summarize, a spare key allows the shipping company to maneuver, drive, or adjust your vehicle if need be.
2. What will happen if a spare key is not given?
Having an extra key on hand is not always a requirement but may cause issues. If you choose not to include one with your vehicle this is what may happen.
Postponements in the Shipping Process
If the transporter is unable to access your vehicle due to keys not being present, the transporter may do the following: Contact you for assistance, Delay the delivery times, Arrange a locksmith to open the car (may attract extra charges). It may delay the transport process unnecessarily and cause you inconvenience.
Damage Risk Intensifying
Sometimes a secured car must be moved forcibly, which can come with the risk of damaging the lock and vehicle’s internal components. A spare key will help in this situation to lessen the risk and help you car be handled properly.
Difficult Drop-Off or Pickup
When sending a car to a location with tricky access, a spare key comes in handy. If you are sending a car to a street where you think a driver would not be able to manoeuvre the car easily, a key would help him do so. If you lack one, it may cause logistical complications that delay the process and make it more difficult.
3. How you can give the spare key to your transporter
When you’ve decided to ship your car with a spare key, you need to know how to leave it. Look at the following best ways to give the key to your transporter.
1. Vehicle’s spare key should be included
The easiest method to give the key is to give the transporter a spare key with the car. You may give it directly to your driver at green pick up time, or the transport company may have a secure way of receiving it ahead of time such as through the mail or their office.
2. Always keep an extra key with the transport company
If you can’t be there at the time of the pickup, the transport company can hold a spare key for you. This could be a helpful choice if you can’t be there or are shipping more than one vehicle.
3. Give a Spare Key to a Third Party:
If you cannot be there when your transport is scheduled, arrange for a friend or family member to have the spare key with them to either give directly to the transport company or to the driver themselves. If you’re working with a shipping broker, you can go through them to send the key.
4. Think about smart keys or keyless entry
If your vehicle has a smart key or keyless entry system, you must supply a spare key or the fob. Numerous contemporary automobiles utilize these systems for entry and ignition. Therefore, it is essential that the transporter possesses the appropriate fob/key to make the car operational.
4. What if my car does not have a spare key?
If there’s no spare key for your car, you’ll need to do some extra work. Although having a spare key is generally better, here are some things to try if you do not have one.
1. Have a duplicate key made
If you don’t already have one, have a duplicate key made before shipping your car. Your car locksmith or dealer can usually make you a spare key within a few days. Having a spare key can be a smart investment as it makes future shipping and general use of the car easier.
2. Request a Key from the Dealership
If you cannot get spare car keys made through a locksmith, call your car’s dealership. A lot of dealerships are often able to offer an additional key for a reasonable price, although it may take a little longer for the key to be ordered and programmed to your car.
3. Reach out to the transporter ahead of time
Call the transport company immediately if you cannot find a spare key in time for shipping. Some transporters may cooperate and allow you to ship the car with only the master key or give you instructions on how to deal with this situation.
5. In conclusion, having a spare key is important when using auto transport
Keeping a spare key for the vehicle is an easy but vital step to have added peace of mind with auto transport. Though not required in every case – having your vehicle fully operational can help avoid delays, reduce chances of damage, and give you access to your car if it needs to be moved.
Expedite car shipping has vehicle transport services which can prove useful to people looking to ship their cars.. Their team provides you with a hassle-free transport experience and can guide you through all the procedures for safe and efficient delivery of your vehicle.
While it may seem surprising, having a spare key will certainly help you when shipping your car. This is because things do happen.
