Table of contents
Quick answer
Licensed carriers must carry liability insurance, and most also carry cargo insurance that covers damage they cause while moving your car, up to a limit and often with a deductible. Check the certificate before pickup, document your car's condition, and note any damage on the bill of lading at delivery.
The coverage that applies during shipping
Carrier liability insurance
Required by federal rules for interstate carriers. It covers damage the truck causes to other people and property.
Carrier cargo insurance
Covers the vehicles on the truck. Limits and deductibles are set by the carrier's policy.
Your own auto policy
Some personal policies cover a car in transit. Call your insurer to check before you ship.
How to check a company's insurance
- Ask for the certificateRequest the carrier's certificate of insurance, not just a broker's promise.
- Check the cargo limitMake sure it's high enough for your car's value, and ask about the deductible.
- Match the namesThe certificate should name the same company and USDOT number that will move your car.
- Look it upConfirm active authority and insurance filings in FMCSA records.
What usually isn't covered
- Personal items left inside the car
- Damage that was already there at pickup
- Mechanical problems unrelated to transport
- Damage you didn't note on the bill of lading at delivery
- Aftermarket parts that weren't disclosed
Protect yourself before pickup
- Wash the car and take dated photos from every angle
- Note existing damage on the pickup bill of lading
- Keep your copy of every document
How to file a damage claim
- Note damage before signingWrite it on the bill of lading at delivery and photograph it with the driver present.
- Tell the company in writingEmail the carrier and broker the same day with photos.
- Get a repair estimateAn independent body shop estimate supports your claim.
- Submit the claimSend photos, both bills of lading and the estimate to the carrier's insurer.
- Escalate if neededIf a licensed company won't respond, file a complaint with FMCSA.
Frequently asked questions
Does a broker's insurance cover my car?
Usually not directly. The carrier that moves your car provides the cargo coverage. Some brokers carry contingent cargo insurance, but it only applies in limited situations.
Should I buy extra insurance for car shipping?
Check the carrier's cargo limit and your own auto policy first. Extra coverage can make sense for high-value cars that exceed the carrier's limit.
Is weather damage covered on an open carrier?
It depends on the carrier's policy. Hail and severe weather are sometimes excluded, which is one reason owners of valuable cars choose enclosed transport.
Sources
Written and reviewed by the Haulwide editorial team. Editorial policy
