Vehicle Shipping companies are generally reliable, but as with everything else in life, accidents happen. Damages do occur, and often the shipping company is responsible and has sufficient insurance to cover the damages. The shipping company should try and reconcile the insurance claim in a timely and courteous manner. There are certain steps that the customer should take, when receiving a damaged car after shipping.

The first step when you receive the vehicle is to inspect it with the vehicle shipping company personnel present. This will ensure that your questions will be answered, and any disputes can be conducted in an orderly manner. Be sure to check the bumper, and under the vehicle for any damages. If it happens that there are damages, and you are at the shipping yard to pick up the vehicle. You should be able to speak with someone to inquire, and to open an insurance claim.

Often the damage is minimal, and after submitting the claim, you are able to drive away in your car, and wait for the response from the insurance company. It is a good idea to contact your own insurance company, to get more information and to ask about your options. Your insurance company will be able to direct you through the proper channels.

Be sure to keep all paperwork of the insurance claim, and a receipt of the rental car costs. This will be required to be given to the insurance company, as proof of rental car costs. Receipts and paperwork, as well as pictures become very important in the claim. The shipping company should be compliant with all of your requests.

If the damage is severe and you are unable to drive your vehicle away from the shipping company’s yard, you should inquire as to what amount per day, the company’s insurance allows for a rental car. Be sure to rent a car that is under this amount, if you do not want to be faced with a hefty bill at the end of the claim.