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Shipping a car from one destination to another is surprisingly common these days given the lack of time most of us have to just jump in the car and drive it somewhere. The process is fairly simple, but that doesn’t mean issues can pop up. One is insurance and who, specifically, will cover any damage to the car.

Before we discuss this question, one thing should go without saying. When shipping a vehicle, you should only use a transport company that is insured and bonded. If you use one that is not insured and the vehicle is damaged, you are going to have a hard time recovering anything from the shipping company since one without insurance is probably not exactly in good financial standing.

Once you’€™ve found a bonded and insured company, the question of who is covering what is something that needs to be both discussed and put in writing. The company will have an insurance policy that you can bet expressly details what is covered and what is not.  You would expect me to tell you what that is, but there is no standard. Some states require certain things to be covered and others do not. This is one of those areas where you can negotiate with the carrier. Again, just make sure it is in writing.

The second part of this question is what will you cover. The policy that you maintain for the vehicle should have a casualty and damage provision. Again, every states has different requirements. To find out what kind of coverage you have, pick up the phone and call your insurance company. They’€™ll let you know the ins and outs.

The goal, obviously, is to make sure that any possible damage is covered by either of the policies. If not, you might want to consider talking to another transport company or asking your insurance company if they will cover the gap. Only then can you be assured that you’€™ll be protected for the duration of the shipping process.

If you are planning to ship your vehicle, you may be considering how to choose the right auto transporter. When you enquire about auto shipping companies just ask them if they are broker or carrier. Schedule your auto shipping 4 weeks in advance, giving enough time for car mover carrier to pick up your vehicle. If you are not present, ask your friend, relative to transfer the car to the car mover. Most of the auto transport companies offer door to door service. Sometimes it may be difficult to drive in large truck carrying your vehicle in a residential area. So auto shipping companies tell their customers to drop their vehicle in a terminal from where they will pick up the car. See to it that your vehicle is insured. Before shipping your vehicle, truck driver will inspect your car for any scratches or damages and note it down in bill of lading. This document should be signed by both the parties. Same procedure is followed upon delivery.

Do check your vehicle before signing bill of lading. If you find any damages while unloading you can claim for damages now but not at a later stage. Do not keep personal belongings in the car as it may damage the interiors of the car. Some items like spare tires or car jacks can be found in the trunk of the car but do tie it down properly. When working on the total cost of the shipping, provide information for other things also like origin/destination, departure date, type of vehicle, type of car transport service desired and auto shipping requests etc. Some car shipping companies require certain amount of deposit or full payment in advance. If you make full payment prior to auto shipping service, use a credit card so that charges may be disputed if circumstances warrant such actions.

Do check there license certificate. Do contact local Better Business Bureau as well as verify that the shipper’s license is valid and active with the appropriate transportation agency. It is important you take time to check references and get all services agreed to by the company in writing. If any problem arises with the auto shipping company try to settle it. However if you feel you have reached a dead end or you are not treated reasonably you can file a complaint with multiple agencies (BBB, State or Federal Department of Transportation, Interstate Commerce Commission) as well as seeking legal counsel.