What Insurance Do You Need for Shipping a Car by Road?

Do you intend to transport your car by road? If so, are you aware of the kind of insurance you require?

It's crucial to ensure that your car remains intact throughout transportation because shipping a car can be a difficult operation.

Road car shipping is a general procedure for those moving to a new city or state. However, it's critical to comprehend the associated risks in the transportation process and how to mitigate them.

This situation is where insurance comes in handy. Choosing the right insurance for your car is crucial when shipping it by road.

In this post, we'll review the various auto shipping insurance options and what variables you should note when choosing the right coverage.

Overview of Insurance to Consider

Shipping a car by road requires special insurance considerations. Understanding what type of insurance will ensure your vehicle is covered to its destination.

Before selecting an auto transporter, question them about their insurance policies. Many companies will provide some type of limited liability coverage for any damage that occurs during the shipping process. It may include collision, theft, or fire damage.

Be aware that if you are shipping an expensive car, you may need additional coverage beyond what the transporter offers.

Comprehensive and collision insurance from your own provider might be necessary to protect against any potential losses while in transit.

Ultimately, understanding what type of insurance is required for shipping a car by road protects against any potential losses during transit and ensures the safe arrival of your vehicle at its destination.

Shipping Provider Insurance

The transporter typically offers limited liability coverage when exporting an automobile by road.

This type of insurance covers any damage during shipment—collision, theft, or fire damage.

These specialized insurers can provide coverage to protect you against any uninsured or underinsured drivers. Liability as protection in the event of an accident or other incident is another consideration.

Anyone transporting a car by road requires proof of insurance. Carriers must provide proof of motor carrier legal liability coverage before taking on any shipments. This way, the customer's vehicle is properly insured against potential losses or damages during transit.

Choosing the right motor carrier insurance provider is essential for protecting your vehicle during transport.

Do your research and compare quotes before making your decision. Therefore, you know you'll get the best protection for the lowest price.

Limited Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is a must-have for anyone shipping a car by road. The financial protection it gives you if your car is damaged or damages another person's property during transport is undeniable.

Liability coverage typically includes bodily injury, property damage, court costs, and legal fees if someone sues you.

When shopping for liability insurance, check what kind of coverage the policy offers.

Ideally, it should include medical expenses, lost wages for any injured parties, and coverage for any damage caused by your car.

Additionally, consider the limits of your coverage. Make sure it will be sufficient to pay for all probable expenses in the event of an accident or other incident.

Finally, ask about any discounts or incentives available—some insurers offer discounts if you have multiple cars insured with them or pay your premiums annually instead of monthly.

Comprehensive and Collision Insurance

Besides the coverage provided by the auto transporter, consider purchasing comprehensive and collision insurance from your own provider.

Comprehensive insurance generally covers any non-collision damage, such as theft or vandalism.

Meanwhile, collision insurance will cover the costs of any repairs needed due to a collision with another vehicle or object.

Comprehensive and collision insurance can protect against potential losses while in transit.

Cargo Insurance

Cargo insurance coverage is necessary if you're shipping a car by road.

It offers insurance for any potential losses during transit and covers the price of any damage to the vehicle itself.

Before signing up for a policy, ask about coverage limits and deductibles. Not all cargo insurance policies are equal. Some may not cover certain items or types of damage, while others may limit how much they will pay out in case of a claim.

Additionally, check whether or not your provider offers additional benefits. These benefits may include roadside assistance and reimbursement for lost wages if you cannot drive due to an accident.

Shop around and compare quotes from different providers before making a final decision. The research will help you find the best policy that suits your needs.

Personal Property Insurance

Personal property insurance is an additional coverage option that can protect your items inside the car during shipment. In this manner, you can travel in peace, knowing there's protection for your personal items.

Personal property insurance typically covers clothes, electronics, and other personal items. It also usually pays out if these items are damaged or stolen during transit.

However, we will remind you that removing these items from your vehicle is better when you ship a car. But if it's inevitable that you must ship a car with valuable items inside of it, ask the provider if you can include this kind of protection in your insurance plan.

Other than protecting the vehicle's contents during shipment, personal property insurance also provides peace of mind. Knowing that your belongings are insured gives you extra security and reassurance as they travel across the country or internationally.

Personal property insurance can be essential to having a successful car shipping experience. Remember to inquire with your provider about this additional coverage.

Extra Insurance

Sometimes, you may need to purchase additional insurance from the transporter. This could include cargo or freight insurance covering any damage or losses during transit.

Other extras can include insurance for break-downs, repairs, and lost keys. Ask the auto transporter what policies they offer and if any additional coverage is available.

Purchasing an extended warranty for your vehicle will not go amiss. This warranty can cover any repairs needed due to a defect in the car.

Protection Plans

Many auto transport companies also offer protection plans to protect your vehicle or cargo further while in transit.

These plans typically cover any damage or losses due to accidents, theft, fire, and other unexpected events.

They may also include additional services like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement if something goes wrong during transit.

Typical Damages During Transport

What are the most common damage claims identified by insurance companies? Read about them below.

Mechanical damage

Mechanical damage is a common type of damage that can occur when shipping a car. This damage could include anything from a failed engine to a damaged suspension.

The right insurance policy covering these damages should compensate you for replacing parts and engine repairs. It is essentially an insurance plan that will put your automobile back on the road.

Cosmetic damage

Cosmetic damage can also be an issue when shipping a car, especially if it's not adequately protected.

Two of the most common cosmetic issues during transit are scratches and dents. Luckily, insurance policies usually cover these incidents.

It is recommended to do a pre and post-inspection of your car as proof of existing damages. By doing this, you can ensure that your policy covers any cosmetic damage that occurs during transit.

Therefore, shop around and compare quotes from different providers before making a final decision. It's best to check what your policy entails completely before shipping, so you know you will be fully insured in case of any cosmetic mishaps.

Natural disaster damages

Cars shipped over long distances are susceptible to severe damage from natural disasters. Unexpected phenomena like tornados, floods, fires, and earthquakes may damage your car.

To ensure your vehicle is adequately protected against these kinds of events, look for an insurance policy that covers natural disaster damages or includes "all risks" coverage.

Theft and vandalism damages

Unfortunately, theft and vandalism are real risks when transporting a car by road.

Protect yourself against them by purchasing an insurance policy covering theft and vandalism. However, choosing a reliable auto transporter that can physically protect your car during shipment is also good practice.

Fully Covered Shipping

Shipping a car by road can come with its fair share of risks and potential damages, so adequate insurance coverage is crucial.

Ensure you have liability coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage before shipping your vehicle.

Additionally, read the terms and conditions of your insurance policy and the vehicle transport company's policy to ensure you are fully covered in any mishaps.

Shipping your car with A1 Auto Transport with full insurance coverage will make your life easier. Click here to get a free quote today.