What is Car Shipping Bill of Lading

As a vehicle arrives at its final point of destination, the driver of the car shipping company hands it over to the person receiving it by asking him to sign off the Bill of Lading.

The car shipping Bill of Lading, commonly referred to as the BOL, is an inspection sheet provided by auto shippers when picking up and delivering an automobile. It may be regarded as evidence that a shipping contract as been entered into by the company and the car owner, a proof that the shipment was received in good condition, and a document of transfer

During the pick up, the customer signs the BOL to signify that he or she is allowing the driver to drive away with the car and begin the transport.

The Bill of Lading normally comes in three parts – a page for the driver (car shipping company), the other for the car owner after the pick up, and another, again for the customer, upon delivery.

During the pick up, the driver inspects the car before signing off the pick-up portion of the BOL. This is why it is helpful to have your car washed before handing it over to your shipper. With a clean car, it is easier for you to see dents and scratches even before the driver performs his initial inspection. It will help if you will take a photo of your car from all angles.

Inspect your own car upon arrival at the destination. If you are not there and you have asked someone to receive it on your behalf, make sure to instruct your representative to inspect your car for any new damages from the transit.

A common mistake is that the person receiving the car gets so excited to see the vehicle arrive in one piece that he or she forgets to inspect it for damages. Walk around the car with a photo in your hand of its original condition. Keep in mind that it is the shipper’s responsibility to pay for any damages, scratches or dents that happened during the transit.

After the shipment has been paid for, make sure you are fully satisfied with the condition of your car before officially receiving it and signing off the BOL. Signing the delivery receipt portion of the BOL ends the deal. After signing receipt, you can not hold the shipper accountable anymore about anything.
 
The Bill of Lading contains general information about your car and the agreement with the car shipping company. Information includes a statement that your car is free from all contents before it was transported. Another statement that one can usually see on the BOL is that the driver (representing the car shipping company) shall not be held liable for damages caused by nature, such as hail, snow, tornado, and so on, as well as road debris. 

If any of these road hazards concern you, better pay for enclosed car shipping services where your car is completely protected during the transit inside a closed and locked down metal container. A special Bill of Lading applies to this method of shipping.