What to Do if Car Movers Damage Your Vehicle

If you’re planning to move a distance, you may have to transport your vehicle as well; therefore, it’s good to be apprised as to what to do if car movers damage your automobile. To avoid any misunderstandings, in case of a problem then, it’s good to be prepared.

Inspect Your Vehicle for Damages or Marks

Before you send your vehicle on its way for the movers to transport, make a thorough inspection and note any areas where there are dings, chips or scratches. Also, note any areas on your car with cracked or broken glass. Tighten or remove any loose parts, such as fog lights or spoilers, and retract or remove the antenna. That way, you’ll be able to determine, after the car is transported, what damages, if any, are a result of the move or were already there.

Note Existing Damages or Marks on the Vehicle Inspection Report

When your vehicle is ready to be picked up, make sure you record your findings on the shipper’s inspection report before you sign off on the document and send the vehicle on its way. Also, make certain you have a copy of the insurance coverage carried by the mover before shipment too.

Inspect the Car When It Arrives at Its Destination

Once your car arrives at its destination, again, go over the vehicle and inspect it thoroughly. If you do indeed find damage, you’re going to have to note the problem on the inspection report and the bill of lading. Make certain to call the driver’s attention to the damage and that it’s acknowledged. Obtain the driver’s signature on the vehicle inspection report and the bill of lading and make sure he confirms the vehicular damage in writing.

Contact the Office of the Car Movers about the Damage to Your Vehicle

Inform the carrier about the damage to your vehicle. Obtain estimates and convey to the mover the cost of repairing the car. When you do discover damage, don’t delay in getting estimates to fix the car or contacting the moving company. Act immediately to make the process go more smoothly. Make sure you have all the required documentation as well.

File a Report with the BBB or Notify the Carrier’s Insurance Company if You Have a Problem

If you have a problem communicating with the mover about paying for damages made to your car, then notify the Better Business Bureau and make a report. Contact the mover’s insurance company to file a claim. Make sure, before moving your car, you’re adequately insured by the carrier and that you’re sufficiently covered against damages by your personal insurance company. It’s important to have overall coverage to avoid any problems. In other words, have a backup plan in case you have difficulties getting your claim paid by the shipper. In most cases though, if you promptly report the damage and include the proper documentation, the carrier will send you a check for repairs in a couple weeks.

Keep the above tips in mind before you move your car anywhere. Make sure you’re prepared.