Hello! I will be making a cake for my friend's baby shower and will transport the cake nearly 3 hours from my home. I've had cake delivery disasters in the past (always when transporting long distances) so I feel more comfortable transporting the tiers separately and assembling onsite - however, I've never done it. Do you have any tips for this process? What should I bring with me to ensure I have all my bases covered?

I would be sure to bring dowels, so that when assembling it onsite, that the weight of the cake from subsequent tiers on the first tier doesn't collapse.  I'd also bring extra decorations, such as flowers, etc., as well as a repair kit and whatever you need for borders and to hide the cake board.  

AI once traveled 7 hours with a cake in my trunk for a friend's wedding. I just brought with me my usual supports and set up the cake onsite. I would recommed a repair kit with extra icing, piping bags, tips and spatulas.

Traveling with a chilled cake is easier so try and refrigerate the cake the night before delivery.

You have to be sure you take *everything* you possible could use - even if you don't think you will use it :)

I suggest you *freeze* the tiers; they will defrost as you travel.  Box each one. Make sure you have non-skid stuff under each box - in fact put a small piece of it in each box also before adding the cake. 

Make sure you have *more* than enough icing and decorations.   Have a plan B in mind just in case some unfortunate thing(s) happen.  That way nothing will go wrong :)

My husband and I drove a wedding cake 5 hours to our niece's wedding. I did what the other post recommended. My cakes were chilled( close to frozen), doweled, in individual boxes with non slip pads under each. I had all of my flowers (some extra), icing and my emergency kit. The reception hall allowed us to use the fridge, when we got in that night. Three hours before the reception we set the cake up and everything was fine. I have to admit I was a bundle of nerves but thank the cake Gods it turn out great.

Thanks for your great tips!