What to Expect on Delivery Day

Delivery day is your last chance to protect yourself. Here's exactly what to do when your car arrives, from the final inspection to signing the BOL and paying the driver.


Before the Driver Arrives

Your carrier will call or text 2-4 hours before arrival with a delivery ETA. Keep your phone accessible during your estimated delivery window.

Have ready:

  • Your copy of the pickup Bill of Lading (for comparison)
  • Final payment if you used the Cash Saver option (cash, cashier's check, money order, or Zelle/Venmo, confirmed with your carrier)
  • A trusted representative if you can't be present

Step 1: Do the Final Vehicle Inspection

This is the most important step at delivery. Do not sign the delivery BOL until this is complete.

Walk around the vehicle systematically:

  1. Compare current condition to your pickup BOL and pickup photos
  2. Check all four body panels, bumpers, roof, and hood
  3. Inspect windows, mirrors, and lights
  4. Check wheels and tires
  5. Note the odometer reading (should be within 3-5 miles of pickup reading)

Inspect in daylight whenever possible. Use a flashlight for evening deliveries.


Step 2: If You Find New Damage

  1. Note it clearly on the delivery BOL before signing, location, size, and type
  2. Take detailed photos immediately
  3. Ask the driver to acknowledge it
  4. Call Web Auto Transport at (760) 932-2886 before the driver leaves

Signing the BOL without noting damage is legally interpreted as confirming the vehicle arrived in acceptable condition. Claims become much harder after signing.


Step 3: Sign the Delivery BOL

Once the inspection is complete and you're satisfied with the vehicle's condition:

  • Sign the delivery BOL
  • Keep your signed copy
  • Store both your pickup and delivery BOLs for at least 30 days

Step 4: Complete Payment

If you chose the Cash Saver Price, pay the driver the remaining balance now using the agreed method (cash, cashier's check, money order or Zelle/Venmo). The driver will not release the vehicle before payment.

If you chose the Card Price, you already paid in full at dispatch. No payment is due at delivery.

Tipping: Optional, but appreciated for great service. $25-$75 is a common tip for long-haul deliveries.


If You Can't Be Present

Authorize a trusted representative (18+, valid ID) to accept delivery. Let us know their name and contact info in advance so we can update the carrier.


Q&A

Q: Can the driver deliver to a different address than originally booked?

Possibly, but changes mid-transit may not be possible. Contact us as early as possible if you need to change the delivery location.

Q: What if the truck can't access my delivery address?

The driver will arrange a safe, accessible nearby location, typically a shopping center or wide street. This is common in cities, dense neighborhoods, and gated communities.

Q: What if no one is home when the driver arrives?

The driver will wait 15-20 minutes. If contact can't be made, the shipment may be held, potentially with storage fees. Always keep your phone on during your delivery window.

Q: My car arrived dirty. Is that normal?

Yes, for open transport. Road dust and grime accumulate over hundreds of miles. A basic car wash will resolve it. This is not considered damage.

Q: Can I inspect the car before it's unloaded from the trailer?

A brief pre-unload visual is fine. For a thorough inspection, wait until the vehicle is off the trailer and parked on level ground.


  • The Final Inspection at Delivery: What to Look For
  • Finalizing Payment with the Driver
  • What to Do If You Notice Damage at Delivery
  • Understanding the Bill of Lading (BOL)

Delivery question? Call or text (760) 932-2886 or use LiveChat. We're here until your car is in your driveway. Email: info@webautotransport.com

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