Shipping a car goes about as smoothly as any process you could hope for. However, there are sometimes shipping disputes arising from delays, damage, and lack of communication. Another common question is: how do I resolve my dispute in car shipping? You need to know how to fix your problems quickly and easily, for your vehicle’s sake and your peace of mind.
If a dispute does arise, this guide outlines how to deal with it herein. Choose 1A Car Shipping for a smooth, dispute-free experience.
offers a professional and transparent service, which reduces the chances of any problems.
Understand Common Disputes in Car Shipping
It is important to first understand how car shipping related disputes actually tend to arise and play out.
Damage to the Vehicle:
This is one of the more common claims of that era. But, while relatively rare, it does include damage in transit if the vehicle is not properly handled, or subjected to really harsh conditions.
Delayed Deliveries:
Shipping delayed by bad weather, bad roads, road congestion, scheduling problems, or other issues; although sometimes impossible to avoid, such delays can be frustrating.
Cost Discrepancies:
Disputes can arise when the final payment differs from the quote due to the inclusion of extra charges or misunderstanding of the method of shipping.
Miscommunication on Pickup/Delivery:
Other customer service complaints involve missing pickup or delivery windows, deliveries to the wrong address, and vague delivery time notifications.
Unclear or Hidden Terms:
Terms of service may not clearly state whether insurance coverage applies to the price, or which party will be liable in the case of damage.
Step-by-Step Guide to Resolving Car Shipping Disputes
If something goes wrong within the car shipping process, you have steps available to help alleviate the issue. These are actions to take when certain car shipping service problems occur.
Step 1: Review the Terms and Documentation
First, you need to read all the documents they ship along with your car.
- The Bill of Lading (BOL) is a legally binding document which lists the condition of the car when picked up.
- Contract or agreement with the transport company should be in writing, to stipulate delivery times, responsibilities, fees.
- Any photos or videos you took of your vehicle before shipment began.
The records may help provide evidence that a mistake or misunderstanding was made in the shipment process which led to the parcel not being delivered.
Step 2: Communicate Directly with the Shipping Company
When all of your documentation is resident, contact the transport company. Communicating with the transport company is also key to solving disputes. Three possible approaches are to:
Describe the Issue:
Explain the problem with politeness and facts if there is a missing item, damaged item, delay, or charge discrepancy.
Provide Evidence:
If you evidence using photos, videos, or the Bill of Lading, that can help support your claim.
Ask for a Solution:
Be polite, but firm: approach the business and either ask for a refund, a discount, or an indication of what they expect to complete, and when.
Some companies such as 1A Car Shipping use customer service agents. These agents are trained to help you resolve the issue in a quick, professional way for you. They should be able to help you toward a solution.
Step 3: Document All Correspondence
Accurately record all emails, telephone calls, and any written correspondence while you resolve the dispute with the shipping company.
Track Conversations:
When dealing on the telephone, write down the call details including the date, time, and the name of the person spoken to.
Follow-Up in Writing:
Follow up on verbal conversations using an email summarizing the main points. This lets you record the conversation and any company commitments.
This record helps if next steps happen or legal action proceeds.
Step 4: Review Insurance Coverage and Claims Process
If something damages your vehicle, check the insurance offered by the transport company from these general coverages:
Basic Liability Coverage:
It is usually included within the shipping cost, and it covers damage to the package.
Additional Insurance or Extra Coverage:
You may have purchased additional coverage for better self-protection, and if so, check your policy to see if it covers this situation.
If the company caused it, and their insurance covers it, then you will have to proceed under the company’s insurance claims. You can ask to speak to a manager or supervisor if you are having trouble getting the company to process a claim.
What to Do if You Can’t Resolve the Dispute with the Transport Company
Other options that you can consider may exist if the shipping company does not resolve your problem.
File a Complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
The BBB can help mediate complaints between consumers and businesses. If the shipping company belongs in the BBB, the complaint may make the business take the situation more seriously and may hasten resolution.
Seek Help from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)
If the shipment is within the United States, the FMCSA regulates auto transport companies, resolves disputes, and can intervene if a company does not follow industry standards.
Use Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
An alternative dispute resolution process is a possibility if the prior steps do not fix the problem. You may resolve the problem more quickly and cheaply in alternative dispute resolution processes such as mediation or arbitration than in court.
Consider Legal Action
A lawsuit the answer if the dispute can not be resolved using any of the above methods. For this situation, get advice from a transport law expert because that person can tell you about the available choices and if you should go to court.
Prevent Future Disputes: How to Avoid Issues in Car Shipping
Disputes are best settled by total avoidance. These precautions can reduce the chance of trouble during later shipments.
Choose a Reputable Shipping Company
Thoroughly research your company, and check that they review, license and insure, and see that they experienced transporting similar vehicles and equipment before you book.
Confirm Details in Writing
Write all contract details, schedules, and terms fully into the documents to avoid miscommunication during the shipping process.
Be Prepared and Proactive
Ready your car per the shipping company’s rules. Make notes and take photographs to record your inspection. This way, you avoid disputing the car’s condition and claiming insurance after delivery.
Final Thoughts: Resolving Disputes in Car Shipping Effectively
In a car shipping dispute, it is best to know your rights, stay calm under pressure, and be persistent. You can minimize the stress and hassle of a car shipping dispute by following the steps above and working with a reputable company like 1A Car Shipping. Nevertheless, most problems can be resolved from if they are approached in the right way.
There should be no surprises in shipping a car with you staying informed, keeping good records, and taking a proactive role.
