If you are the type of person who moves from one state to another or from one country to another along with all your belongings, then you are familiar with how the industry of car transportation works. By now, you are already aware of how important documentation is when it comes to damages incurred during the transport of your vehicle.
When having your car transported, most auto transporters would submit to you a car inspection report that indicates in detail whatever pre-existing damage your car has. This, along with any photos that you have taken before turning over your car to the transporter, would be your best weapon when it comes to making claims for damages incurred after transport.
Another way to protect yourself from being ballyhooed by unscrupulous car transporters is thru the Bill of Lading. The Bill of Lading serves both as a proof of receipt of your vehicle as well as a contract between you and the shipper. You would be made to sign this contract both before pick up and upon arrival of your vehicle.
The Bill of Lading usually contains basic information about your vehicle – the type, make and model as well as the VIN and the plate number. Aside from this, the Bill of Lading oftentimes provides a way for you to record any pre-existing damage your car has. This contract also indicates any fees that you need to pay, any payment that you might have already made, and the terms and conditions by which you and the
auto transporter agree in moving your vehicle. Both you and the transporter would need to sign this contract for it to take effect.
Once signed, the details indicated in the Bill of Lading can no longer be changed. This means that you need to make sure that any information contained in the Bill is true, complete and correct. Before signing it, check with the car transporters what their policy is when it comes to inspecting the vehicle during undesirable or harsh weather conditions. On your part, you have to be ready to inspect your car upon arrival even in extreme weather conditions. Check everything thoroughly before signing the Bill of Lading. If you find that your car has incurred any damage, you need to indicate this in the Bill of Lading so that your transporter can take the necessary actions.
The Bill of Lading is especially important if you are moving your car across countries. Make sure that you fill it out correctly and completely before handing a signed copy to the
auto transporters.
