Car Transport Insurance What You Need to Know

Car transport is a popular option for moving a vehicle from one place to another. Because of its convenience and relatively low cost, it makes sense for many people to use a car transport company when moving. To ensure the best possible results, dot the i’s and cross the t’s—including insurance.

Check your own insurance to see if it covers car transport. Some plans may already have your shipping covered, but many don’t. Talk to an agent and discuss your options to determine if adding car transport coverage is the right choice for you.

Clarify with the car transport company what exactly their insurance covers. How much of it protects you as the vehicle owner? Be certain to get it in writing, and make sure you understand the jargon to eliminate the chance of an unpleasant surprise down the road.

Get your vehicle ready for shipping. This includes removing all loose items from the vehicle—basically, anything in the interior that didn’t come with the car. Even air fresheners, dashboard hula girls, and car repair kits—if aftermarket and stored loosely in your trunk—should be removed to comply 100% with auto shipping restrictions.

Take note of any existing vehicle damage. If your car has nicks or scratches, make sure to note them. Photos are an easy way to ensure no confusion in the unlikely case of an incident during car transport. By taking pictures prior to moving and them comparing them to the vehicle’s condition after shipping, you can be certain that everything is just as it should be.

Understand—and complete—the Bill of Lading. This document acts as a receipt, as well as inspection report and list of shipping terms and conditions. Prepared with a thorough knowledge of what the document is—and isn’t—will protect you legally as well as help make sure you get the most out of your car transport experience.

Because of the large financial value of your vehicle, protecting it during shipping is beneficial for you as well as for your car transport company. A thorough knowledge of your own vehicle insurance, the insurance of your shipper, and the ins and outs of best car transport practices set you up for a pleasant and satisfactory shipping experience.

(tags: car transport, car transport insurance)