Auto Shipping - The Importance Of Auto Inspections

By Tom Kearns

When considering the shipment of your vehicle, several important questions must be asked and answered in order to decide on the shipping company that is the right fit for you. Questions such as how much will it cost to get the vehicle from here to there and how much time will be involved in the transportation.

An important factor that we all should also consider is the safety of our vehicle. You want to make sure that your car or truck arrives in the same condition at its final destination as it was in at its origin. In the transportation world this doesn't always happen. That's why it is so important to do a thorough inspection of your vehicle when you turn it over to the auto shipping company. Below are a few key points to keep in mind when inspecting your vehicle:

When making your thorough inspection of the vehicle, do not do so alone. You must have a representative from the shipping company doing the inspection with you so both agree and sign off on the condition of your vehicle before it is shipped. List all damages whether inconsequential or not. You will then know at the end if any damages you see then were pre-existing or brand new. Get a signed copy of this agreement before you leave the inspection site, and take pictures!. Take lots of pictures!

The functionality of your car now should be the same as when you drive it at its destination. Check every functional aspect (turn signals, head lights, tail lights, etc.) of the vehicle with the representative and get a sign off on this too, as well as a copy of the agreement for you. Make note of any items attached to the interior that may become knocked about during the journey. Take pictures of the interior as well as the windows.

Don't forget the glass in your car. A little chip in the windshield may not be annoying now, but oh boy, when it turns into a big crack, you're in trouble. Take pictures. Check and get pictures of all the windows in your car.

If you do find any damage on your vehicle make sure to follow these tips below:

The first thing you must do is report any and all damages immediately. This will avoid confusion as to where and when the damage occurred and will give you a much better shot at getting it fixed and paid for by someone other than yourself.

Take pictures. These along with the pictures you took before your vehicle's journey are the best proof of evidence you can offer to the claim department of any insurance company.

Get a valid estimate for repairs. One thing that the claims department will want to know is "how much?". Many auto shippers will let you get your vehicle repaired at the shop of your choice so make sure you choose wisely. Dealerships are generally a safe bet.

Hopefully, your vehicle will not sustain any damages at all. But better to be safe than sorry. By following the above before-and-after-journey steps to inspect your vehicle, you will not go wrong no matter what folly occurs during shipment. - 30331

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