You probably know that car shipping companies offer
insurance coverage on the luggage they carry, but the much each is willing to
pay for damages vary a great deal. It is, therefore, prudent to confirm that
your vehicle is adequately covered during shipping before signing any documents.
We at Nexus Auto transport take our clients through the insurance papers to
ensure that they understand our terms before we get to business.
Here is what you should know about auto shipping
insurance so that you have a peace of mind when transporting your car.
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Confirm the insurance
Your auto transport company should be able to provide you
with their insurance certificate on request. This is not only for customer
relations but is a requirement of law. You are supposed to ascertain that the
company is well insured, and ask questions on any matter concerning the
coverage to make sure that you understand everything.
Among the things you want to know is the party liable for
the repair of any damages that might occur on the road, and whether the
company's policy covers the entire vehicle or only a few parts. This way you
will be sure that your car is in the right hands.
Have everything in Writing
The best proof of any agreement you come to with your
shipping company is best put in writing. So, when it comes to the insurance
terms and considerations, make sure you have everything in writing and signed
by the proper authorities from the carrier's side. This will come in handy when
you are making your compensation claim in case of any uncertainty, especially when
the mover disagrees on what you had agreed earlier.
Consult your auto insurance provider
You may find that your auto insurance policy covers your
vehicle while it is being shipped, but it is crucial to confirm and not assume.
Get in touch with your insurance company and check with them to find out
whether the policy provides for anything like that. Also, you can inquire about
the safety of your vehicle in transit including notifying them that you are
transporting it and whether it is necessary for you to add another coverage for
the vehicle in transit.
Empty the car of any loose items
The insurance that most car transporters provide does not
cover interior damages, and as such, you want to make sure that all loose items
are removed from the interior of the vehicle before handing it over. It is
possible that they will cause damages in the interior of the car when the
vehicle jolts during shipping. Besides, you cannot ensure their safety,
especially if they are valuable. Do this when preparing your car for
transportation.
Pre-shipping inspection
The one critical step that you don't want to miss when
shipping your car using a car shipping Transport Company is the inspection you
do before handing your car over to them. While they will do theirs, and have a report
on it, it is prudent that you have your inspection as well. The first thing
would be to wash the car to reveal any damages on the paint. The point here is
to have a record of the condition of the vehicle before shipping which will be
the benchmark when delivered.
It is also advisable to take quality and clear
photographs of the exterior and the interior of the car before it gets into the
possession of the shipping company.
Post-shipment inspection
The same way it was important to inspect your vehicle
before shipping, it is essential that you do the same when the vehicle is delivered. You will be required to
sign the Bill of Landing which will indicate your satisfaction with the
services delivered. So, before signing the document, you want to be sure that
the condition of your car is as it was before shipping. Start the engine to
detect any mechanical issues, and you may need proper lighting for inspection
if delivered at night. Remember that the company will not be liable for any
damages after you sign the Bill of Landing.
