Sometimes vehicle can be damaged during transport. This can make a vehicle relocation process complicated and unpleasant for the owner of the transported vehicle. Most people only ship their cars once in their lifetime. They do not know the process for handling a car shipping claim. However a broker, such as ShipCar24, can help the vehicle owner navigate the car shipping claim process without difficulty.

Who is Responsible?

The carrier or the driver is responsible for the cost of any damage occurring during the transport. Most of the car carriers have cargo insurance that is meant to cover damages that occurred during relocation. Most of the car carriers have cargo insurance that is meant to cover damages that occurred during relocation. Not all of them will assist in cargo claims, however. Therefore, it may be a good idea to pay a car shipping broker who will help in handling a claim.

Who did you Hire?

If you hired a carrier directly they are unlikely to assist you with the claim process. Carriers may even refuse to provide you with their insurance policy information. On the other hand, a licensed and experienced car shipping broker will guide you through the claim process. Additionally, a broker, like ShipCar24, may handle the claim for you and represent your interests in some instances.

Steps in Handling a Car Shipping Claim

The first step in a car shipping claim is to determine when the damage occurred. The transport driver will conduct a vehicle inspection for preexisting damages at the time the vehicle is picked up. This is like inspection you conduct when you rent a car. The results of the inspection are placed on a slip called a Bill of Lading (BOL). Many drivers also take pictures of the vehicle to document the preexisting condition. The BOL and pictures are reviewed prior to filing of the official claim to ensure the damage was not preexisting.

Notify the Carrier or Broker

The second step in the claim process is to notify either a broker or a carrier about the damage. Most carriers will disregard the claim because they do not want to involve their insurance company in the process. Sometimes the carrier will not even have active insurance. On the other hand, a licensed and responsible broker, similar to ShipCar24, will have the carrier’s insurance on file and will process a claim for you.

Settlement vs. Insurance Claim

The last step in the process is to either settle a claim with the carrier or file an official claim through the carrier’s insurance. A broker’s goal is to settle the claim for you directly without involving the insurance company. This will save you time. Insurance claims often take months to resolve, while a direct settlement can be accomplished in a few days.