Whether purchasing a car at auction or selling one to a customer across the country, a vehicle
inspection report plays a critical role in your vehicle transport and delivery experience.
A vehicle inspection report is a document that records the condition of your vehicle when being shipped. Although shipping with the right transport provider provides a safe and reliable experience, this official document provides proof of any damages that may occur during the vehicles’ journey.
The Importance of a Detailed Vehicle Inspection Report
The carrier will generate a vehicle condition report based on a proper inspection of your vehicle during
the transport process. This provides documentation of the vehicle’s condition before and after it is
transported to its destination.
The vehicle inspection report acts as your safeguard in the event of unforeseen damages during the
transportation journey and is used as documentation when making an insurance claim.
Whether your car has a flat tire or you notice a scratch on the rear window, a quick look at the vehicle
condition report will help you determine when the damages occurred.
Why do Vehicle Condition Reports Matter?
Vehicle condition reports play a pivotal role in safeguarding both the vehicle owners’ and transportation
providers’ interests.
Evidence and Accountability
A detailed report with photographs provides concrete evidence of your vehicle’s condition before being transported and will prevent disputes about pre-existing damages versus damages incurred during transit.
Insurance Claims
In case of unexpected damages, a comprehensive inspection report can help streamline insurance claims by offering clear documentation of the vehicle’s condition before and after transport.
Peace of Mind
Knowing your vehicle’s exact state before shipping gives you peace of mind, allowing you to assess any changes or damages that may have occurred during transit.
Who Needs a Vehicle Condition Report?
Vehicle condition reports provide clear documentation and hold any of the following parties involved
responsible during damage settlements.
Vehicle Owner
A vehicle condition report benefits the car’s owner by providing evidence of the vehicle’s state before and after transport, including any dents, scratches, or wear and tear.
Transport Company
These reports are essential for transportation companies to counter potential damage claims, offering a clear record of the vehicle’s condition before and after transit.
Insurance Company
Insurance providers rely on vehicle condition reports to process claims efficiently, especially in cases where damages might have occurred during transportation.
Used Car Seller
Conducting a vehicle condition report and passing with flying colors is the best way to put your car on the market. As the report will vouch for the condition. It will assure the potential buyer that it’s worth buying at the price.
The Process of Creating a Vehicle Condition Report
A vehicle condition report is generated by the carrier as they follow a standard procedure that
involves inspecting the car for any visible damages both inside and out.
It is conducted by the carrier at the time of pick-up and after the delivery of your vehicle to its
destination. This is to ensure that the vehicle is in the same condition as it was before it was shipped.
Whether you’re choosing open car transportation or enclosed shipping for a classic or sports car, the
process of creating a vehicle condition report remains consistent throughout.
Before Shipping
After Shipping
- The carrier inspects your vehicle’s
exterior and interior - They note and take photos of damages such as dents, paint scratches or interior stains
- You will review the updated report andsign electronically
- After arriving at the destination you and
the carrier will look over the vehicle - The carrier will document any new damage on the vehicle condition report
- A copy of the vehicle condition report
will be emailed to the shipper as part of the Bill of Lading (BOL) - If necessary, the report can be used to aid insurance claims and dispute settlements
Elements of Vehicle Condition Report
A vehicle condition report consists of three essential elements. Let’s take a look at each of them
in detail.
1. Basic Details – Vehicle and Owner
In this section, the carrier records basic yet important information about the vehicle. This includes
the owner’s name, VIN, mileage, model number, model year, dealer’s name (if applicable), address,
and phone number.
2. Exterior Condition Report
The carrier checks the vehicle’s exterior thoroughly, including the front, back, driver, and passenger
sides.
They check everything from the windshield, side mirrors, door handles, paint condition, presence of dents or tears, and any scratches on the car’s surface, including the hood. They also take a picture of
the tires to ensure they are in working condition.
Whenever any damage is identified, the reporter will take a photo and document the damage on the
condition report.
3. Interior Condition Report
This report covers the car’s interior, including the front and rear carpets, seats, equipment, accessories, music and GPS systems, headliner, door panels, and dashboard.
The carrier categorizes these components based on their condition, using terms like “good,”
“stained,” “worn,” “old,” “ripped,” or “dirty.”
Examining features like carpets and the dashboard thoroughly matters for the accuracy. Whether
buying, selling, or shipping a car, this careful documentation with pictures and checklists ensures no
detail is overlooked.
The Value of Vehicle Condition Reports
The vehicle condition report often flies under the radar, but its importance in the car and transportation industries is undeniable.
When shipping a car across the country, the report is essential. It establishes transparency between you and the transporter, avoiding finger-pointing and making it easier to sort out any potential damages. Essentially, the vehicle condition report instills a sense of security and transparency. It’s not just some ordinary paperwork; it’s your safeguard for a secure journey and smooth dealings with everyone involved.
When you move with ACERTUS, our professional carriers and drivers capture the vehicle condition
report and digital inspection photos within our proprietary electronic proof of delivery (ePOD) applications. These applications then feed the data to our transportation management system,
ACERTUS TMS, providing you with complete visibility.
At ACERTUS, we specialize in providing you with a smooth vehicle transport experience. Our highly-qualified carriers, 99.5% damage-free delivery rate and comprehensive liability and cargo contingent insurance on all moves ensure safe, seamless vehicle shipping. Get a quick quote today to start moving.
