1. Damage Reported at Delivery

If you notice damage at delivery that was not present at pickup: Note it specifically on the Bill of Lading before you sign. Do not sign a clean Bill of Lading if there is damage — once you sign a clean BOL it becomes significantly harder to file a claim. Photograph all damage immediately with timestamps. Email photos and the signed BOL to info@approvedautotransport.com within 24 hours of delivery.

2. Damage Reported After Delivery

Contact us immediately at (888) 594-2804 or info@approvedautotransport.com with your order number, a description and location of the damage, and any photographs you have.

If damage was not noted on the Bill of Lading at delivery, outcomes are significantly harder to pursue — however we will still contact the carrier on your behalf as a courtesy. If damage was noted on the Bill of Lading at delivery, we will proceed with a formal carrier notification within 24 hours.

3. Our Process After You Report

We will contact the assigned carrier within 24 hours of receiving your damage report and request their insurance information, a driver statement, and their copy of the Bill of Lading.

If the carrier does not respond within 5 business days, we escalate directly to the carrier's insurance company. We will file a formal claim with the carrier's cargo insurer on your behalf and provide you with a claim number. We will update you within 48 hours of every meaningful development and follow up actively until resolution. These processes typically take 2 to 6 weeks.

4. Resolution

If the carrier's insurer approves the claim, you receive payment directly. If the claim is denied, we will provide you with the denial in writing and documentation for any further legal recourse you choose to pursue. If a carrier is unresponsive or uninsured, we will file a complaint with FMCSA on your behalf and consult our contingent cargo coverage on your behalf.

5. Important: Bill of Lading

The Bill of Lading is the legal condition record for your vehicle. At pickup it documents all pre-existing damage. At delivery it confirms the vehicle's condition upon receipt. Always complete a thorough walk-around inspection before signing the delivery Bill of Lading. Do not sign if there is new damage — note it on the document first. Your signature on a clean delivery Bill of Lading significantly limits claim options.

6. Contact

To report damage or file a claim:

Email: info@approvedautotransport.com

Phone: (888) 594-2804