What to Do If You Notice Damage at Delivery

Found damage when your car arrived? Act immediately and follow these steps. The next 60 minutes are critical to protecting your right to a damage claim.

Act Immediately. Every Minute Counts

If your vehicle arrives with damage that wasn't present at pickup, the next 60 minutes determine the strength of your claim. Here's what to do, in order.

Step 1: Do Not Sign the BOL Yet

This is the single most important rule. If you sign the delivery Bill of Lading without noting damage, you are legally confirming the vehicle arrived in acceptable condition.

Stop. Inspect first. Sign after.

Step 2: Document the Damage Thoroughly

Before saying anything to the driver:

1. Photograph the damage from multiple angles, close-up and wide-angle showing context
2. Photograph your pickup BOL to show the damage was not present before shipping
3. Note the odometer reading
4. Record a video walk-around if possible

Timestamped photos are your strongest evidence.

Step 3: Note the Damage on the Delivery BOL

Write a clear, specific description on the delivery BOL before signing:

• Location: "Left rear door, mid-panel"
• Size: "Approx 3-inch scratch"
• Type: "Paint scratch to bare metal"

Be specific. Vague descriptions like "possible damage" are harder to act on.

Step 4: Show the Driver and Request Acknowledgment

Calmly point out the damage to the driver. Ask them to acknowledge it and add their own notation if they agree. If they dispute the damage, that's okay, your notation on the BOL is what matters legally.

Step 5: Call Web Auto Transport Immediately

Call or text us at (760) 932-2886 or email info@webautotransport.com before the driver leaves if possible.

We will:

• Document the situation on our end
• Contact the carrier
• Begin the claims process
• Advise you on next steps

Step 6: Sign the BOL

Once damage is noted and photographed, sign the delivery BOL. Refusing to sign doesn't help your claim and prevents vehicle release.

After the Driver Leaves

• Get a repair estimate from a licensed auto body shop
• Send Web Auto Transport: photos, both signed BOLs, and the repair estimate
• We file with the carrier's cargo insurance
• Most claims resolve in 7-21 business days

Q&A

Q: What if I noticed damage after the driver already left?

Contact us within 24 hours at (760) 932-2886). Photograph everything immediately. Claims without BOL notation are harder but we'll assess your documentation.

Q: What if the carrier disputes the claim?

We escalate and mediate. If the carrier's insurer denies a valid claim, we advocate on your behalf throughout the process.

Q: Do I pay for repairs while waiting for the claim?

In some cases yes, especially if the damage is urgent. Keep all receipts for reimbursement.

Q: Is minor damage (small scratch) worth claiming?

That's your call. There is no deductible on your end in most cases, so even minor damage is worth documenting and reporting.

Car arrived damaged? Call (760) 932-2886 right now. We'll help you through every step. USDOT# 4574725 | FMCSA Licensed and Bonded. Email: info@webautotransport.com