So do auto shippers provide insurance documents? The answer is yes. Most reputable auto shipping companies will be able to provide you with their written insurance coverage. This can help put your mind at ease about protecting your vehicle during transportation. Not all auto shippers will be able to offer you this information, but knowing ahead of time can save you trouble.
This guide contains everything you need to know about insurance when shipping a car, what documentation you should receive, how to confirm coverage, and why choosing a trusted auto transport carrier such as 1st Car Shipping is essential.
ensuring a safe and transparent shipping experience.
1. Do Auto Shippers Provide Insurance Documents?
The quick answer to, do auto shippers provide insurance documentation, is yes. Professional shippers carry liability insurance and should be able to present proof of insurance upon request. Auto shippers, however, vary with respect to the type, amount and level of detail of documentation they provide.
What You Should Expect:
- Insurance Certificate or Proof of Coverage
- A Copy of the Carrier’s Liability Policy
- A Description of Coverage Limits and Conditions
- Written Explanation of What Is and Isn’t Covered
Ask for these documents before making a reservation; a reputable company will always be willing to provide them.
2. What Types of Insurance Do Auto Shippers Offer?
To understand what documents auto shippers provide, it is important to understand the types of coverage that are available.
1. Carrier Liability Insurance
This is the least you are legally required to have, covering damage to your vehicle.
- Accidents
- Carrier negligence
- Loading/unloading mistakes
It may not cover everything, and coverage limits may apply.
2. Cargo Insurance
Many reputable carriers carry cargo insurance which would cover the cars themselves and may provide better coverage than the carrier’s liability insurance.
3. Optional Additional Insurance
Some companies offer additional insurance, in particular for shipping, if you want higher coverage.
- Luxury cars
- Exotic cars
- Classic vehicles
In these cases, you may want more than just basic coverage.
3. What Should You Look for in Car Shipping Insurance Documents?
One way to compare auto shippers is to look at the insurance papers they provide:
1. Coverage Amount
If the carrier is insured, check what the coverage is. The amount the carrier is covered for ranges between $50,000 and $250,000.
If your car’s full value exceeds the policy limit, request additional insurance on your final policy when possible.
2. Covered Events
The documents must specify what is covered, for example:
- Collision damage
- Weather-related damage
- Loading/unloading damage
- Theft or vandalism
Avoid companies that don’t specify exactly what is covered.
3. Exclusions
Far more common are exclusions. Some common exclusions include the following:
- Objects found inside the vehicle.
- Pre-existing damage
- Mechanical issues not related to shipping
- leaks or blown-out tires upon arrival.
- Clarifying exclusions avoids later disputes.
4. Deductibles
Some policies have a deductible; check the details of your policy.
- The deductible amount
- It is the responsibility of the
5. Carrier Identity and Verification
The certificate of insurance shall include:
- Carrier name
- Policy number
- Insurance company name
- Validity dates
You can check this with the insurance company, of course.
Trustworthy companies such as 1st Car Shipping always provide insurance documentation.
4. How to Request and Verify Insurance Documents
They may be easy to ask for, but knowing how to trust and check them protects you.
Step 1: Request Insurance Proof Before Booking
Ask them to email to you a copy of their insurance certificate. They might not be for real if they refuse or if they hesitate.
Step 2: Check Policy Validity
Confirm:
- Start and expiration dates
- Coverage type
- Carrier identity
If the policy is near expiration, check if it has been renewed.
Step 3: Contact the Insurance Provider
Call the insurance company listed on the certificate to make a verification that the insurance has validity.
- Policy number
- Carrier name
- Your shipping dates
This ensures that the coverage is real and active.
Step 4: Compare Insurance Across Companies
Add insurance information when comparing quotes:
- Not all “cheaper quotes” offer enough insurance protection
- Higher-priced carriers often include wider coverage
Step 5: Request Written Terms
The insurance terms of any policy must be:
- The shipping contract
- Your confirmation email
- Bill of Lading (inspection report)
5. What Happens if Something Happens to Your Vehicle?
Your rights in case of damage are usually written out in the auto shipper’s insurance terms and conditions:
1. Inspection at Pickup
The driver also completes a Bill of Lading to document any pre-existing damage. You should check on the vehicle and review and sign the Bill of Lading.
2. Inspection at Delivery
When the vehicle arrives, thoroughly inspect it for any new damage.
- Noted on Bill of Lading the same
- Take detailed photos
- Get the driver’s signature
3. File a Claim
File a claim with the insurance company using the shipper’s documentation.
- The carrier
- The insurance company
Having the insurance documents makes the process more straightforward and faster.
6. Why Choosing a Reputable Auto Shipper Matters
Not all have real insurance; some employ a more tenuous system to hold themselves accountable during a car shipment.
A reputable company will:
✔ Provide the insurance documents promptly
✔ Explain coverage clearly
✔ Provide added protection for desirable automobiles
✔ Communicate openly and professionally
✔ Strong customer reviews.
1st Car Shipping offers fully transparent information about transport insurance, easy access to your shipping documents and a safe transport process to give you complete peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: Always Ask for Insurance Documents Before Shipping
So, do auto shippers provide insurance documents? Sure, reputable ones do! Those documents are important to show your vehicle has full coverage on the road.
Considerations prior to booking:
- Request insurance documents
- Verify coverage
- Understand limits and exclusions
- Compare protection across companies
- When you trust a reputable shipping company like 1st Car Shipping
You can rest easy knowing your vehicle is protected with proper documentation and reliable insurance coverage.
To start your safe and worry-free car shipping experience, you should have the right insurance documents at hand.
