For classic car owners in New Zealand, moving from A to B comes with a unique set of challenges. While you may love the thrill of taking your pride and joy on the open road, getting it across the country requires a bit more thought. That's where classic car transportation comes in.
Whether you’ve got a vintage Jaguar or a rare Porsche 924, opting for classic car transportation means that your chosen provider will have the specialised equipment (and importantly, the know-how) to get your car safely on the truck, across the country, and off again, without so much as a scratch.
In this guide, we break down exactly what you should expect from using a specialist carrier to ensure your car arrives in the same condition it left your driveway.
One of the most common causes of damage during transport isn’t what happens on the road. It’s what happens during loading and unloading.
Many classic cars simply don’t have the same level of clearance as newer models. With a lower centre of gravity and less ground clearance, these vehicles are at a higher risk of bumps and scrapes to the front bumper or undercarriage if loaded onto a standard car carrier or via a standard ramp.
When you’re vetting a carrier, don’t just ask if they can move your car; ask how they plan to get it onto the deck.
A specialist will be happy to talk shop about their equipment, which may include:
Since the goal is to keep your classic car scratch-free during transportation, the condition report will be your most important piece of paperwork.
Often called a ‘bill of lading’, this document acts as a record of the state of your car before it leaves your hands.
Any professional classic car transporter will ask you for a condition report. To make sure this report is as accurate as possible, take the following steps before submitting it to your provider.
When it comes to taking photos of your vehicle, timing is everything. And so is lighting. Make sure you:
A clean car is important for an accurate inspection. Removing any road dirt, grease, or grime can make it easier to see any damage and will give you better photos.
By presenting a clean vehicle, both you and the carrier can sign off on the condition report with total confidence.
For many classics, the delicate interior of your car is just as important to preserve as the exterior paint. Document the condition of your leather, dashboard, and footwells.
Not all car carriers are created equal. When it comes to transporting a classic car, you need someone who has done it before. You may need a provider that knows how to transport vehicles with low clearance, delicate or aged parts, or has options for protecting your car while on the road.
To make sure your vehicle is in safe hands, we recommend asking your carrier about the following:
Your classic car is likely worth a pretty penny. So, it’s important when choosing a provider that you have an honest conversation about insurance.
A true classic car transporter shouldn’t just give you a price; they should proactively discuss how your vehicle is protected while in their care.
If a provider avoids the insurance talk or gives vague answers, it’s a red flag.
To make sure your vehicle is actually covered, talk to them about:
In New Zealand, the default legal liability for carriers is capped at just $2,000 per unit (the car). For many classic cars, this doesn’t cover much. Ask whether your transporter offers insurance that covers more than just the Carrier’s Risk and whether it’s included in the price. If not, you may need to take out insurance for the journey.
Be wary of contracts stated as ‘Owner’s Risk’. This means the carrier is not liable for damage unless they cause it intentionally. Choosing a ‘Declared Value Risk’ contract is the professional standard for classic cars. This allows you to specify the car’s actual worth within the contract itself.
If your car is crossing the Cook Strait, it enters the realm of maritime law. Ask your carrier whether their insurance covers the journey or if your private policy needs to cover this. Generally, your comprehensive car insurance should cover this, so it’s a good idea to have a private policy for such a vehicle.
Find out more about what is covered (and what isn't) in our complete guide to vehicle in transit insurance.
Even though your car is being carried rather than driven, it still needs to be ready for the journey. Before your transporter arrives, run through this essential checklist:
You’ll find them on Wise Move! Don’t just take our word for it. We make it easy to book a classic car transport service, allowing you to compare quotes and reviews from professional transport providers from around the country.
Whether you’ve got a cross-country move on the horizon or need transport to a classic car show, you can rest easy knowing your vehicle will get the care it needs for the journey.
Wise Move is New Zealand’s leading moving service, helping thousands of customers with home moves, furniture removals, car and motorcycle transport, and more. Since 2017, we’ve been delivering reliable, affordable, and well-reviewed moving services in just a few simple steps. Our focus has always been on making moving as simple and effortless as possible for our customers.
