Is my car insured while it's being shipped?
All Active Car Shippers must provide Full Protection Insurance By Law. How it works:
We insure our automobiles against accidents, theft, and other forms of potential damages because, for the majority of us, they are our most expensive possession, second only to our homes. But many people are unaware that many policies may or may not offer the protection they anticipate when they load their vehicles onto an auto transport carrier for shipping to a different location.
Some auto shipping companies include a waiver in their contract that releases them from all liability for potential damage that might happen while the vehicle is in their care, which only serves to further complicate matters. Therefore, before signing the contract, it's wise to confirm the car shipping company's policy. In order to get your automobile where it needs to go without any unanticipated issues or charges, here are a few things you should know about auto transportation.
Request proof of insurance from the car shipping company
The FMCSA enforces the requirement that auto transport companies maintain a current insurance coverage, which they must be able to show upon request. At this time, you should also inquire about their policy. Find out if they cover any damage sustained during the shipping procedure, if the entire vehicle is covered or just particular components, and whether you will be responsible for any deductible payments in the event of damage.
Get everything in writing
Get any special agreements or considerations in writing before agreeing to the terms of an auto transport service. This will safeguard you in case something unanticipated occurs, particularly if they are rendering you a service or consenting to something that is not specified in their standard contract.
Check with your own car insurance company
Depending on your coverage, your own auto insurance provider might cover your car while it's being transported, but you should always double-check. Find out if your insurance coverage continues while the car is being shipped and if you need to give your insurance provider any kind of notification from the car shipping firm.
Remove all loose items within your vehicle
Remove all of the loose objects from your car before giving over the keys to avoid the possibility of interior damage, which is typically not covered by car shippers. Included in this are all removable electronics, extra cash, CDs or cassettes, and anything else that might fly away. You can lower your danger of a break-in theft, which is also typically not covered by car shipping providers, by taking away your loose belongings.
Assist the driver with the vehicle inspection at pickup and delivery
The vehicle will undergo a comprehensive inspection before the auto shipping business takes custody of it to record any existing damage. You ought to be there while the inspector conducts this inspection, if at all possible. Prior to the shipping firm taking control of the vehicle, it is a good idea to snap pictures of the vehicle to document its condition.
What is the Bill of Lading?
The Bill of Lading, which is essentially a condition report that describes the vehicle's condition upon arrival, must be completed by the owner once the vehicle is delivered. Make sure to thoroughly inspect the car, paying special attention to the undercarriage. Start the engine to look for any indications of mechanical problems. If you can, check the vehicle under bright lights if it is delivered at night. Once you sign the Bill of Lading, the transfer is complete, and if you missed anything, the auto transport company won't be responsible. If there are any indications of damage, note it on the Bill of Lading and get the driver to sign it. After that, get in touch with the shipping business directly to ask about compensation. They ought to be able to help you with making a claim with the insurance company for the car carrier.
