Here’s What You Need to Know When You Ship Your Vehicle

Here's What You Need to Know When You Ship Your Vehicle

Do you know what to expect when you ship your vehicle for the first time? If you don’t, that’s ok, too – Metti International is here to help support you through the entire process of auto shipping. Being prepared is a good feeling, so let’s dive into what to expect when your car arrives at its final destination. 

Be Ready to Meet the Carrier

Be prepared to meet with the auto carrier. They’ll keep you updated on when to expect them as the arrival date gets closer. Whether you are doing door-to-door shipping or terminal-to-terminal shipping, you or an authorized individual will still need to be there to pick up the vehicle. If cost-savings are a priority, you can opt for terminal pickup. This will save you money and save the driver time, as he’ll be able to eliminate a stop.

Prepare for a Post-Trip Inspection

When your vehicle arrives, your driver will do a vehicle inspection and note the vehicle condition on your receipt. However, you should always complete your own self-inspection while the driver is there. If you notice any damage, make sure to have the driver note it on his Delivery Receipt and initial it for acknowledgement. Also, be sure to take photos for your records. 

Some tips and things to look for during your post-trip inspection are: 

  • Confirm that all windows are intact upon arrival.
  • Review the body of the car for any major scratches or dents. 
  • Compare the car’s state with any photos you took prior to shipping. 

Do keep in mind, though, that when you ship your vehicle through an open carrier, your vehicle will be exposed to flying debris and weather conditions. Small scratches and dings from transport will not be covered by your insurance or the driver’s claims.

Be Prepared to Sign the Bill of Lading

Be prepared to sign the bill of lading (BOL) upon delivery. A bill of lading is an inspection/invoice for car shipment and must remain with the car during its travel. It shows the condition of your car at pickup and delivery. This is the document you use to report any damage during transit. Insurance companies rely on the BOL to pay claims. 

Automobile transportation can be overwhelming, but knowing what to expect upon arrival can help you have a good experience. Metti International can help walk you through the entire process so you’re well prepared when your car is dropped off to ensure that you’ve done your due diligence. 

We were a two time finalist for the “Torch Award Finalist” by the Better Business Bureau for Ethics (BBB), and pride ourselves on providing customers with exceptional service and doing everything we can to help your transport experience go smoothly.

Call Metti International for a free quote today at 866.620.1776!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Most major credit cards, postal money orders and cashiers checks are acceptable forms of payment.

As with most transport services, a deposit is generally required when placing an order. Deposits range from 10-25 % of the total shipping cost. The remaining balance will be due upon delivery.

Most auto transport companies accept cash, certified checks, and postal money orders.

Coast to coast trips usually takes between 10-14 days. Shorter trips ranges from 3-7 days, depending on the actual distance. Some factors may delay a trip, including traffic, weather, and truck breakdowns.

Yes, we request you, or a designated person, be present upon pick up of your vehicle. For your safety and your vehicle’s safety, an inspection is performed and a bill of lading must be signed that serves as proof of delivery.

The easiest way to ship an inoperable vehicle is to let us know when requesting a vehicle transport quote. There will be an additional charge, plus loading and unloading charges to your quote, if we are not informed of the vehicle’s condition prior to quoting.

Auto carriers are not licensed to carry house goods or personal items, these goods and items are not covered by the carriers insurance. Any damage to your vehicle due to household goods shifting or breaking is also not covered. Personal belongings left in the vehicle, are shipped strictly at the owners risk. Carriers will not inventory any belongings left in the vehicle and will assume no responsibility.

Your car is insured for the Blue Book value the entire time it is on the truck. Clearly listed on your Shipping Order, Agreement and Bill of Lading are occurrences not covered. At the time of pick up, a condition report is filled out and signed by both the person turning the car over and the truck driver and you are given a copy.

Upon delivery of your vehicle, this same report is presented. You should compare the condition of the vehicle to the report thoroughly at that time. If you feel damage has occurred to your vehicle during delivery, you must note it on the report before you sign it and the driver leaves. Damage done in transit does not relieve the shipper of paying for transport service performed. Claims will be handled by the vehicle carrier and insurance companies.

Metti International offers door-to-door auto transport service where possible. However, there are instances that we cannot collect/deliver directly to the door due to the size of our auto carrier’s trucks. The size of your street may prohibit direct delivery to your door. Also, some towns and cities do not allow trucks on their residential streets. If the carrier cannot get to your door, he will deliver your vehicle to the next most convenient accessible location, such as the nearest major crossing street, a shopping mall or supermarket.

Please have a no more than 1/4 tank of fuel, remove all personal items from your vehicle and have it washed and cleaned so that the ensuing inspection is easily performed. If it is a convertible, T-top, sunroof, etc. make sure all openings are closed and prepared for changing weather. You can find additional tips on how to prepare your car for transport here.