Learn step-by-step how to confirm auto transport insurance coverage. Verify policy details and protect your vehicle during shipping with AMG Transport Co.

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How Can You Verify a Carrier's Insurance Coverage Before Auto Transport?

When you're shipping your car, one of the most critical steps is verifying the carrier's insurance coverage. This isn't optional paperwork. It's your primary financial protection if damage occurs during transport. It's about protecting your investment. This is especially true for classic car transport enclosed carrier services or luxury vehicle transport enclosed vs open. Damages can be costly.

At AMG Transport Co., we deal with this daily. We work with carriers across the nation. Our parent company, AMG Endeavors, is a carrier. So we know the ins and outs. Carriers transport vehicles. Brokers handle the complications. You need to know your vehicle is covered. Here's how to ensure it.

Why Carrier Insurance Matters

Shipping a car isn't like mailing a letter. Roads are dangerous. Accidents happen. Vehicles can shift during transit. Your car is important. You need peace of mind. Without proper insurance, you're on the hook for any damages. Don't take that risk. Especially if you're shipping a non-running vehicle what to know should include insurance. We prioritize auto transport safety record.

Step 1: Request Proof of Insurance from Your Broker

First, ask your auto transport broker for the carrier's insurance certificate. A good auto transport broker Texas like AMG Transport Co. will provide this. We work with pre-vetted, insured carriers. We expect proper documentation. This is standard procedure. If a broker balks, walk away. They aren't a trusted car shipping broker reviews would recommend.

Step 2: Verify the Carrier's Operating Authority (MC Number)

Every legitimate carrier has an MC (Motor Carrier) number. This is assigned by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can find this number on the Certificate of Insurance. Or, your broker can give it to you. This is crucial for nationwide vehicle shipping door to door.

How to Check:

1. Go to the FMCSA SAFER system website.

2. Enter the MC number in the search field.

3. Look at the carrier's operating status. It should be "Active."

4. Check their insurance filings.

This simple check confirms they are a legal operator. It also confirms they have filed insurance with the FMCSA. This is a basic step. Do not skip it.

Step 3: Examine the Certificate of Insurance (COI)

The COI is a formal document. It proves what coverage the carrier has. Don't just glance at it. Read it carefully. What to look for:

Policy Holder Name: This should match the carrier's name.
Effective Dates: Ensure the policy is active during your transport dates.
Coverage Limits: This shows the maximum payout for damages. Typical cargo insurance limits for auto transport range from $100,000 to $250,000. Some carriers offer higher limits for expensive vehicles. Enclosed auto transport for luxury cars often has higher limits. Make sure it covers your vehicle's value.
Deductible: Understand the carrier's deductible. This is the amount they pay before insurance kicks in. A high deductible might signal a problem.
Type of Coverage: Look for "Cargo Insurance." This specifically covers damage to transported vehicles. It's different from liability insurance.

At AMG Transport Co., we ensure our carriers carry robust policies. We only work with reliable partners. We value auto transport safety record and reputation. We understand when relocating to Florida ship car from Texas, you need confidence.

Step 4: Contact the Insurance Provider Directly

Still not sure? Call the insurance company listed on the COI. Ask them to confirm the policy's validity. Provide the policy number and carrier's name. This is the ultimate verification. It takes a few minutes. It can save you thousands. This simple call gives you peace of mind.

Important Considerations for Auto Transport Insurance

Your Personal Auto Insurance

Check your own car insurance policy. Some personal policies offer limited coverage during transport. Others offer none. Don't assume. Call your agent. Understand your existing coverage. This is especially important for situations like ship a car from Houston to Los Angeles.

Additional Coverage Options

For high-value vehicles, consider additional coverage. Many carriers offer supplemental insurance. Or, you can purchase a third-party policy. Talk to your broker about options. For multi-car transport for families, extra coverage might be wise.

Damage Claims Process

Know the process before something happens.

1. Inspect thoroughly: Upon delivery, inspect your vehicle. Do it before the driver leaves. Note any new damage.

2. Document everything: Take photos and videos. Get the driver's signature on the Bill of Lading. This notes any damage. We use VIN scans at pickup and delivery to document condition.

3. Report immediately: Notify your broker and the carrier of any damage within 24 hours. Don't delay.

A good broker will help guide you through a claim. We provide expert car shipping services Texas. This includes assistance with claims.

The Broker's Role: Why AMG Transport Co. Is Your Best Bet

Why use a broker? Because we handle the headaches. Carriers don't want to deal with people's problems. They want to drive. Their primary reason for not working directly with individuals isn't laziness. There are many instances where people don't pay. The ones willing to take the risk also know they can charge regular people more money. That's one of the few reasons they don't like brokers. Brokers have our margin too.

It'll never be cheap to get the job done right. But a good broker like AMG Transport Co. fosters strong carrier relationships. This ensures they're invested in taking care of our clients. A vehicle could be anywhere in the country at any point in time of week. We do what carriers don't want to do. The frontend sales, coordinating, and backend systems. All of it.

We vet carriers. We verify their insurance. We ensure they meet our high standards. This saves you time and stress. We consolidate shipments, which can lead to better rates. We are your buffer. We keep rates reasonable. We are a guiding light in a fraud-filled industry. You couldn't work with most carriers directly if you wanted to. It's why an experienced car shipping broker you can trust is almost required.

We provide honest quotes. We use Stripe for secure deposits. Our 72-hour pickup windows are standard. We are a Texas based auto transport broker nationwide. We offer door pick-up and delivery car transport service. We handle everything from open car carrier transport cost to enclosed carrier benefits for exotic cars. How much does it cost to ship a car cross country? What affects car shipping cost per mile? These are questions we answer daily.

AMG Transport Co. combines the direct knowledge of a carrier (through AMG Endeavors) with the customer-focused approach of a broker. We know both sides of the coin. This means better service for you. That's why we're the best auto transport company Texas. We provide affordable car shipping without hidden fees.

Conclusion

Verifying carrier insurance isn't just a step. It's fundamental. It protects your car. It protects your wallet. Don't trust your vehicle to just anyone. Work with an experienced auto transport broker that prioritizes your safety and peace of mind.

AMG Transport Co. makes this process seamless and secure. We handle the heavy lifting. We verify all carrier credentials and insurance. We ensure your vehicle is in good hands, from door-to-door car shipping how it works to multi-car transport for families. For reliable car shipping services Texas, and beyond, choose AMG. Get your free quote today.

Written by Mike Matthews, Logistics Manager at AMG Transport Co.