When looking for estimates from auto shipping companies, you must ascertain the quantum of insurance coverage that the auto transport company will provide while the car is in their custody. Most reputed auto shipping companies carry insurance that are well covered for likely damages to the vehicles when they are they are shipped. Make it a point to obtain copies of insurance policies and all other agreements or promises in writing in order to avoid misunderstandings later. Any company that is legal to transport any type of vehicle should also have cargo and liability insurance. This is to ensure that if anything is to happen to your car while it is in their hands, it will be covered. If you are still doubtful you could also double check this information with the insurance company, they will tell you everything you need to know.

Insurance coverage limits become critically important when you are transporting any specialty vehicle that has a market value far in excess of its book value.Once you know for certain what is covered and what is not covered; you might want to consider a supplementary insurance coverage for a particular vehicle shipment. This might be especially true if you are transporting a valuable classic, vintage race car, exotic, antique or other specialty vehicle. Such coverage may be available through your auto transport company and added to the standard cost of your vehicle's transport. Your insurance agent may be able to obtain this supplementary coverage for you.
Before you finally decide on which auto transport company to favor, ask the companies you're interested in for their insurance certificate. They are all required by law to have one. Seek all necessary clarifications about the nature of coverage. Will the car be completely covered for any damage that occurs during shipping or only certain parts of the car like the body alone will be covered? Will you be required to pay a deductible?

Prior to handing over your keys, make sure to empty your car of all personal items. First, most transport companies' insurance will not cover any extraneous objects in the car, should they be damaged in transit. Further, the extra weight, if it's substantial, could damage the vehicle's exhaust system. Any objects inside the car could move around and damage the interior. This kind of damage will also not be covered by the auto transport insurance.

When you leave your vehicle at the shipping company, the company representative will inspect the vehicle before loading it for any pre-existing damage. Be sure to be there during this examination. When your automobile is delivered at the end destination, the same inspection process will be repeated - this time to check for any damage that might have occurred during shipping. It's important you do a thorough check and note all damage on the condition report - otherwise known as a bill of lading - before you accept the car. Make sure to check the vehicle's undercarriage and also check for mechanical damages.

If there are grounds to file a claim, do so immediately after taking delivery. If you do not include damage on your condition report at the time of delivery, it will be impossible to prove the car transport company was responsible for the damages. If you don't feel your car shipping company has treated you fairly during the claims process you can file a complaint with your local Better Business Bureau.