Auto Transport Claims Guide
What to do if your vehicle is damaged during shipping — documentation, the Bill of Lading, carrier cargo insurance claims, and how to protect yourself before, during, and after transport.
Key Takeaway
The most important step in any auto transport damage claim is documentation at delivery — before the driver leaves. Noting damage on the Bill of Lading, taking timestamped photographs, and filing promptly with the carrier's insurer are the foundation of any successful claim.
Before Pickup: How to Protect Yourself
The strongest protection for any vehicle shipment begins before the carrier arrives. Customers who document their vehicle's condition thoroughly before pickup are in a dramatically stronger position if any dispute arises later.
Note: Customers who add Premium Protection Car Shipping receive a structured pre-shipment documentation checklist covering all of these steps in detail.
The Bill of Lading: Your Most Important Document
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is the official vehicle condition report completed at both pickup and delivery. It is a legally binding document that records the vehicle's condition and both parties' acknowledgment. In any damage dispute, the BOL is the first document an insurance adjuster will review.
Review it carefully at pickup
Before signing, verify that all existing damage to your vehicle is noted on the BOL. Do not accept vague condition descriptions — be specific.
Add notes if anything is missing
If the carrier's inspection missed a scratch or chip that already existed, add it yourself before signing. A complete record protects both parties.
Inspect thoroughly at delivery
Before the driver leaves, walk around the vehicle and compare its current condition to the BOL from pickup. Check in good lighting.
Note any new damage immediately
If damage is present that was not on the pickup BOL, write it on the delivery BOL specifically — location, size, type. Do not sign until this is done.
Keep your copy
You are entitled to a copy of the signed BOL at both pickup and delivery. Keep these documents safely — they are essential if a claim is filed.
Critical: Once you sign the Bill of Lading at delivery without noting damage, the legal record closes. It becomes very difficult to prove that damage occurred during transport rather than afterward. Always inspect before signing.
How to File an Auto Transport Damage Claim
If damage is noted at delivery and documented on the BOL, follow these steps to initiate a claim with the carrier's cargo insurance.
Document everything at delivery
Photograph all damage. Note it on the BOL. Get the carrier's full name, MC number, and insurance certificate details before they leave.
Notify the carrier in writing
Send written notice of your intent to file a claim as soon as possible — the same day if possible. Most carriers require notice within 15–30 days of delivery. Email creates a timestamped record.
Obtain a repair estimate
Take the vehicle to a licensed body shop and get a written damage repair estimate. This is required documentation for any cargo insurance claim.
Compile your claim package
Gather: pre-pickup photos, post-delivery photos, signed BOL from pickup and delivery (showing damage noted), repair estimate, your shipment contract, and the carrier's insurance certificate.
File the claim with the carrier's insurer
Contact the carrier's cargo insurance company (listed on their certificate) to formally file the claim. Provide all documentation. Note the claim number and adjuster's contact information.
Follow up persistently
Claims can take weeks to resolve. Follow up regularly in writing. If the carrier is unresponsive, escalate through your broker. Premium Protection Car Shipping customers receive priority escalation support through EZ Auto Movers.
Typical Claims Timeline
Day 0 — Delivery
Inspect vehicle. Note damage on BOL. Photograph everything. Do not sign without documentation.
Days 1–7
Send written notice to carrier. Get repair estimate. Compile claim package.
Days 7–30
File formal claim with carrier's insurer. Provide all documentation.
Weeks 2–8
Insurance adjuster reviews claim. May request additional documentation or inspection.
Weeks 4–12
Claim decision issued. Settlement negotiation if needed.
Resolution
Payment issued or claim disputed. Appeals process available if denied.
Claims Assistance Through Premium Protection Car Shipping
Premium Protection Car Shipping from EZ Auto Movers includes dedicated claims assistance — documentation review, carrier escalation support, and priority follow-up throughout the resolution process. It does not replace the carrier's cargo insurance or commit to claim approval, but provides meaningful support when you need it most.
Optional program. Subject to terms, limits, exclusions, and eligibility. Does not replace carrier cargo insurance.
Auto Transport Claims — Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
Bill of Lading for Car Shipping
What the BOL is, why it matters, and how to complete it correctly.
Car Shipping Insurance Guide
How carrier cargo insurance works and what it covers.
Premium Protection Car Shipping
Optional claims assistance, carrier verification, and shipment oversight.
What Is FMCSA?
FMCSA licensing, carrier verification, and operating authority.
Enclosed Auto Transport
Higher protection for luxury, classic, and high-value vehicles.
Car Shipping FAQ
Answers to the most common car shipping questions.
Get a Free Car Shipping Quote
Request a quote from EZ Auto Movers and ask about adding Premium Protection Car Shipping for added claims assistance, documentation support, and carrier insurance verification.