Your Vehicle's Condition Before Transport ?
A vehicle condition report is simply a multi-part form that should be completed by the operator (DRIVER) picking up the automobile while you (SHIPPER), or your representative, is present. The form should be completed prior to the actual handling or loading of the vehicle. Such forms are obvious in their intent and purpose...to list all visible discrepancies over the automobile's exterior at the point of origin so both parties have this knowledge.
Items such as paint (faded, scuffed, peeling, etc), body panel conditions (dings, dents, gouges, holes, rust-through, etc), glass (chipped, cracked, starred, etc), tires and wheels (cuts, scratches, curb rash, split, etc) should be noted and marked on the report. Standard contents should be noted as present or missing in the case of spare tires/wheels, jacks, accessories,etc. Floor mats and radios as well as other factory issued items should be noted as present or missing. Any add-on accessories you may have added should be listed and acknowledged by the DRIVER and the SHIPPER. The purpose is to insure the vehicle and it's contents arrive safely and in place.
The condition of the underbody is impossible to determine, obviously, and the operator cannot and should not be held responsible for pre-existing defects or damage. However, a claim could arise due to the improper tie-down procedure for the particular make and model and if the claim is entirely due to the negligent actions of the driver, this would be considered DRIVER responsibility. Many times, SHIPPERS are unaware of existing underbody damages on their own cars, i.e. tie-down location extortion, pull-outs, bent or distorted suspension components, etc., especially if the car has been previously transported by an inexperienced carrier or operator/driver.
Once the vehicle condition report is completed, it should be acknowledged, then signed by both parties. The driver completing the form is not stating value of the car or criticizing the condition but simply assessing the pre-transport state of the vehicle for his/her protection as well as you, the SHIPPER. During the shipment, undoubtedly, your car will encounter weather changes and could arrive with some road film and dirt from spray, etc. This should be expected and is normal for open carrier transport. ***You should note there is an option available for enclosed auto transport which would keep your car completely covered throughout the journey. This enclosed option will be more expensive due to the limited number of vehicles that can be placed inside the enclosed carrier's equipment. When shipping on open carriers (which is today's most used method of vehicle transport), you can expect some road "influence" around your car and this is to be expected at the destination point.
Keep your copy of the vehicle condition report for comparison at the destination delivery. Another walk-around is in order at this time. It should be noted the carrier cannot be held responsible for damages or defects NOT caused by the driver or failure of his equipment. If the damage or defect was pre-exisiting, the carrier cannot be held liable for this.
That's pretty much it for the vehicle condition report. Happy Shipping !
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