Auto Shipping Bill of Lading

Car shipping requires a lot of trust, primarily because you are giving away your most prized possession. A car is never just a car. It is an extension of your home and of you. People regard their automobiles as their friend or baby, so it is not that easy handing over your car keys to your shipper. What legally binds this trust is the auto shipping bill of lading - BOL.

Before releasing your car to the driver, you will be asked to sign the first part of the auto shipping bill of lading, which says you are authorizing the driver and the shipping company to pick up your car and have it shipped to your desired destination.

Before signing anything or even making any deposits or payments, make sure you understand everything that has been agreed upon and written on a contract. You should not have any expectations without basis, for instance the time and date of delivery. Car shipping companies typically do not guarantee an exact time and date of delivery since they have to make several stops in one shipment. A vehicle carrier/delivery truck can transport up to ten cars in one route and your car might just well be the 10th car on the list.

Make sure that all agreed upon procedures to your favor are put into writing. For instance, perhaps your car shipping company agreed that they should deliver your car not more than 3 days after your required date and that they will pay a car rental fee for every day of delay. Also, you might have agreed upon a coverage that your shipper will pay 100% for all damages that could occur any time while your car is within their care and area of responsibility. Make sure things like these have been written down and signed.

Check and study their insurance coverage or policy. Never use a car shipping company that cannot guarantee the safety of your car. There have been tons of reports that vehicles look rusted and much older upon delivery. This is especially true in overseas shipments. You can never tell what salt-water air can do to your car’s finish.

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At the other end of the shipment is the next part of the auto shipping bill of lading. As your car reaches its final destination, the shipper or its designated driver will ask you or the person receiving the vehicle to sign the BOL, saying that the vehicle had arrived in exactly the same condition as it was at the point of origin. Signing the BOL says you have nothing to complain and that you are perfectly satisfied with the shipment and service.

This makes it necessary to thoroughly check your car upon receipt. You can ask a professional mechanic to check the engine, undercarriage or for any mechanical damages. It is helpful also to take photos of your car before sending it off so that you can compare as it arrives after the shipment. The bill of lading comes in duplicate so that both you and your car shipping company get a signed copy.