Vehicle Inspection Before Transport

The bill of lading inspection at pickup and delivery is the single most important moment in vehicle shipping. Done right, it protects you from disputed damage claims. Done poorly, it can leave you on the hook for fixes you didn't cause.

What Is a Bill of Lading?

The BOL is the legal contract documenting the condition of your vehicle at pickup and at delivery. It's a checklist of every panel and wheel with notes about existing damage. Both you and the driver sign it.

Pre-Pickup Inspection: What to Do

Wash the car. Dirt hides scratches. A clean car is an easy-to-inspect car.
Photograph everything. Take dated photos of all four sides, the roof, the wheels, the interior and any existing damage in close-up.
Walk the car with the driver. Don't let them rush through this. Take your time.
Note every scratch, dent, chip and curb rash on the BOL. Even minor things.
Get a copy of the signed BOL. Physical or photo — keep it until your vehicle arrives.

What to Look For

Door dings and panel scratches
Bumper scuffs and cracks
Wheel curb rash
Windshield chips and cracks
Mirror damage
Tire condition
Headlight and taillight clarity
Pre-existing rust or paint chips

Delivery Inspection: What to Do

Inspect in daylight. If the driver arrives at night, ask to inspect under good light or refuse delivery until morning.
Compare to the original BOL. Anything new gets noted on the delivery BOL before you sign.
Photograph any new damage immediately.
Note new damage on the BOL before signing. This is your legal foundation for any claim.
If there's significant new damage, contact your shipping agent immediately. Your carrier's cargo insurance kicks in from here.

Common Inspection Mistakes