Auto Transport

    Car Shipping Insurance: What's Covered and What You Need to Know

    Seals Shipping Admin
    November 20, 2025
    0 Comments

    Professional auto transport carrier delivering vehicles cross-country safely.

    Entrusting your vehicle to a carrier is a big decision. Understanding the insurance coverage provided during transit is essential for your peace of mind and financial protection.

    Primary Carrier Insurance

    By law, every auto carrier must have a minimum amount of Cargo Insurance. This covers your vehicle against damage during loading, transport, and unloading.

    Insurance Verification

    Standard cargo insurance for open trailers is usually $100,000 to $250,000. For enclosed carriers, it often ranges from $500,000 to $2,000,000.

    What is Not Covered?

    Insurance is for the vehicle only. It does not cover personal items left inside the car or damage caused by "Acts of God" (like extreme hailstorms or floods) unless specified.

    Your Insurance Checklist

    Request a copy of the carrier's Certificate of Insurance (COI)
    Perform a thorough pre-shipment inspection and take photos
    Remove all personal belongings and valuables from the vehicle
    Document all existing damage on the Bill of Lading (BOL)

    The Importance of the Bill of Lading (BOL)

    DocumentPurpose in InsuranceCritical Step
    Pickup BOLBaseline condition proofDetailed photo verification
    Delivery BOLProof of new damage (if any)Immediate signing and noting

    Expert Tip

    If you find new damage, you MUST note it on the delivery BOL before the driver leaves. If you sign it 'clear', it's almost impossible to file a successful claim later.

    Conclusion

    Insurance is your safety net. At Seals Shipping, we only work with carriers who maintain a current and valid insurance status, adding an extra layer of logistics oversight to your move.

    FAQs About Auto Transport

    Q.What does standard carrier cargo insurance cover?

    It covers your vehicle against damage during loading, transport, and unloading. Open trailer policies typically run $100,000–$250,000; enclosed carriers often carry $500,000–$2,000,000.

    Q.Are personal items in my car covered?

    No. Carrier insurance covers the vehicle only — not personal belongings left inside. Remove all valuables before shipping.

    Q.What if I find damage at delivery?

    Note it on the delivery Bill of Lading before the driver leaves. Signing it clear makes it nearly impossible to file a successful claim afterward.

    Safe & Secure Shipping

    Get your vehicle shipped with the industry's most trusted carriers. Real-time tracking and comprehensive insurance included.

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