How to File a Damage Claim | Guide

If your vehicle is damaged during auto transport, filing a damage claim is essential to resolve the issue and secure compensation. Following a clear and organized process will help ensure your claim is handled efficiently.

Here are the key steps to take if you discover damage upon delivery:

1. Inspect and Document the Damage
   
2. Review the Condition Report
3. Notify the Transport Company
4. File a Formal Claim
5. Gather Supporting Documents
6. File the Claim Promptly
7. Cooperate with the Investigation
8. Obtain Repair Estimates
9. Await Resolution
10. Seek Legal Advice if Necessary
    

How to File a Damage Claim

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Filing a Claim: Damage during Transport

If you discover that your vehicle has been damaged during auto transport after the delivery has been completed, it's essential to take prompt action to file a damage claim. [1]

What to do when filing a claim

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Document the Damage:
   As soon as you receive your vehicle, thoroughly inspect it for any damages. Take photos and videos of the damage from multiple angles. Make sure to document any scratches, dents, or other visible issues.
2. Review the Condition Report:
   If you completed a condition report before the vehicle was transported, refer back to it and compare the condition of the vehicle upon delivery. Note any discrepancies between the pre-transport and post-transport condition reports.
3. Notify the Transport Company:
   Contact the auto transport company immediately to report the damages you have discovered. Provide them with detailed information about the damage and any relevant documentation, such as photographs and the condition report.
4. File a Formal Claim:
   The auto transport company will likely provide you with a formal damage claim form. Fill out this form with all the required details about the damage, the vehicle, the shipping process, and any supporting evidence you have.
5. Gather Supporting Documents:
   To support your claim, you may need to provide additional documents, such as the bill of lading, the shipping contract, photographs of the vehicle before and after transport, and any relevant receipts or invoices for repairs.
6. Be Prompt and Thorough:
   File your claim as soon as possible after discovering the damage. Most auto transport companies have specific time-frames for filing claims after delivery, so it's essential to act quickly and be thorough in providing all necessary information.
7. Cooperate with the Investigation:
   The auto transport company's insurance provider will likely conduct an investigation to assess the validity and extent of the claim. Cooperate fully with the investigation, providing any additional information or evidence they request.
8. Get Repair Estimates:
   If the claim is approved, you may be asked to obtain repair estimates for the damages. Get multiple estimates from reputable repair shops to ensure you receive fair compensation for the repairs.
9. Await Resolution:
   The process of investigating and resolving the claim may take some time. Be patient and await the response from the auto transport company's insurance provider regarding the claim's approval and the offered compensation.
10. Seek Legal Assistance (if necessary):
    If your claim is denied or you're not satisfied with the compensation offered, consider seeking legal advice to understand your rights and other options. [2]
    

Remember to keep all communication with the auto transport company and their insurance provider in writing and retain copies of all documentation related to the claim. By following these steps, you can effectively file a damage claim after auto transport delivery and work toward a resolution for any damages your vehicle may have incurred during transport.

ATTENTION: In order to enable insurance coverage, the Bill of Lading must be completed and signed at both the pickup and delivery point by both the customer getting the vehicle shipped and the driver assuming the responsibility for the shipment.

Related Links

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• Explaining Insurance Coverage in Auto Transport
• The Bill of Lading: Inspection Report and Receipt
  
• Taking Photos of Vehicle Before Transport

   

References

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1. Move.org: Filing Car Shipping Claim
   
2. FMCSA: What if there are problems?