Auto transport insurance is a mandatory type of coverage that licensed car carriers must have. It protects your vehicle from damage while it’s being shipped from point A to point B. This isn’t your personal auto insurance – it’s the carrier’s commercial liability and cargo insurance, and it’s crucial for your peace of mind.
At Bridgetown Express LLC, we’re fully licensed, bonded, and insured – and we’re here to break down exactly what that insurance covers, what it doesn’t, and how to protect yourself from the unexpected.
What’s Typically Covered by the Carrier?
Here’s what most auto transport insurance policies do cover:
- Physical damage from accidents during transport
- Scratches, dents, or body damage from loading or unloading
- Theft or vandalism while the vehicle is in the carrier’s custody
- Weather-related damage (in some cases, like poor securing during storms)
If your vehicle gets dinged, dropped, or otherwise mishandled during the trip, you’re covered — in theory. But there’s more to it.
What’s NOT Covered?
Unfortunately, some customers assume everything’s covered — not true. Most carriers exclude the following from their policies:
- Mechanical failure (unless caused by the transport)
- Pre-existing damage (anything noted at pickup won’t be reimbursed)
- Personal belongings inside the car
- Acts of God — think earthquakes, floods, or other natural disasters
- Improperly documented damage (if it’s not on the Bill of Lading, you’re out of luck)
So, if your car battery dies or the A/C stops working during transport, you’re likely on the hook — unless the carrier caused it directly.
Before the Trip: What You Should Do to Protect Yourself
Want to avoid the blame game? Here’s how to bulletproof your shipment:
1. Take photos
Snap clear photos of your car from all angles before shipping. Pay close attention to:
- Bumpers
- Mirrors
- Roof
- Undercarriage (if possible)
2. Clean your car
A clean car makes it easier to spot damage during inspection.
3. Don’t leave personal items inside
They’re not covered, and they can even cause delays if the weight exceeds limits.
4. Get a copy of the carrier’s insurance certificate
Ask the carrier or broker for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) with your name and vehicle listed. This verifies their coverage is current and legitimate.
Claim Process: What to Do If Damage Happens
Okay – worst-case scenario: Your car arrives with a scratch that wasn’t there before. Now what?
Here’s how to handle it without losing your mind:
- Document the damage on the Bill of Lading (BOL) immediately.
- Take new photos at delivery to support your claim.
- Refuse to sign the BOL until the damage is noted.
- Contact the carrier and request their claim procedure.
- Submit your claim in writing, including photos and paperwork.
Red Flags: Insurance Scams in the Auto Transport World
- Carrier can’t provide a COI
- They refuse to explain coverage terms
- They rush you to sign without inspection
- They ask you to handle claims without documentation
Stick with FMCSA-licensed companies (like Bridgetown Express LLC) that are transparent about their insurance policy and process.
Conclusion
Auto transport insurance is like your parachute – you hope you don’t need it, but when you do, it better be solid. Protect yourself by asking the right questions, documenting everything, and working with a reputable company that’s not afraid to share their policy info.
Whether you’re shipping your daily driver or a dream car, insurance is your backup plan – and we’ve got a good one. Fully insured, transparent, and committed to your peace of mind. Contact us today and get your free quote!