Learn the critical steps to take when your vehicle arrives with unexpected damage from professional transport and how to protect your rights.

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What Should You Do When Your Car Arrives Damaged from Auto Transport?

So, your car just arrived. You were expecting a smooth delivery. Instead, you see new damage. It stings. Nobody wants to deal with this. As a Logistics Manager here at AMG Transport Co., I've seen it all. I know what needs to happen. Let's get straight to it.

Immediate Steps to Take at Delivery

First thing's first. Don't panic. But act quickly. This isn't the time to be polite and rush things. You need to be thorough.

Inspect Thoroughly, Document Everything

Before the carrier leaves, inspect your vehicle. Do this while they are present. Check every panel, every bumper. Look at the roof, the undercarriage if possible. Compare it to your initial inspection. You should have photos or a VIN scan from pre-shipment. We at AMG Transport Co. ensure our carriers perform a VIN scan on pickup. This helps establish a baseline.

If you find any new damage, no matter how small, document it. Take clear photos. Take videos. Get multiple angles. These visuals are your best friend. They prove the damage happened during transit. Without solid proof, your claim is dead on arrival.

Mark the Bill of Lading (BOL)

This is non-negotiable. The Bill of Lading (BOL) is a critical document. It's your contract. It's the record of what was picked up and what was delivered. If new damage exists, it must be noted on the BOL. Write down a detailed description of the damage. Be specific. Don't just say “dent.” Say “dent on passenger side front fender, approximately 3 inches long.”

Ensure the carrier's driver signs off on these notes. Get a copy of the BOL with these notes and both your signatures. This signed document is your primary evidence. Without it, you'll have a tough fight ahead.

Understanding Insurance and Claims

Now that you've documented the damage, you're looking at a claim. This is where the process gets a bit more involved. It's also where an auto transport broker like AMG Transport Co. really earns its keep. We deal with this stuff daily.

Carrier vs. Broker Responsibility

Let's be clear: the carrier is legally responsible for your vehicle's condition during transport. Their insurance covers damage. When you use an auto transport broker in Texas, like us, we connect you with vetted, insured carriers. We screen them for their safety record and reputation. This minimizes your risk of dealing with shady operators.

Our parent company, AMG Endeavors, is a carrier. So we know the ins and outs. We also know carriers don't always like dealing with claims. That's why they rely on brokers to iron out these problems. They focus on the road. We focus on you. The carrier's insurance is primary. Your personal auto insurance typically only kicks in if the carrier's coverage is exhausted or doesn't apply.

The Claim Process

1. Notify Immediately: Contact the auto transport company or your broker as soon as possible. Provide them with copies of the signed, noted BOL and your damage photos/videos. For our clients, we guide you through this process. We're your advocate.

2. Gather Evidence: You've already started this. Keep everything organized. Get repair estimates from a reputable body shop. Get at least two estimates if possible. This helps ensure fair pricing.

3. File Your Claim: Your broker will help facilitate this with the carrier. The carrier's insurance company will then assign an adjuster. They will review your evidence. This can take time. Patience is required. It's not always a quick process. Expect some back and forth.

4. Cooperate: Provide any additional information the insurance company requests. Be clear and consistent in your communication. A good auto transport broker you can trust will help you manage these communications.

What About the Cost?

How much does it cost to ship a car cross country? Well, it will never be cheap to get it done right. A good broker helps keep rates reasonable. But damage claims are separate. If the damage is legitimate and well-documented, the carrier's insurance should cover the repair costs. Be wary of carriers who try to offer cash settlements directly. Always go through the proper insurance channels.

Why a Broker is Your Best Bet

Look, some people think they can cut out the middleman. Work directly with a carrier. Good luck with that. Most carriers don't deal with the public. They don't want the hassle. The frontend sales, the coordinating, the backend systems—that's what we do. We do what carriers don't want to do. They've got enough problems on the road.

Carriers aren't saints either. A big reason they avoid direct consumer contact? Non-payment. We at AMG Transport Co. use Stripe for secure deposits. This protects both you and the carrier. We work with carriers who know we handle the financials professionally.