March 22, 2022

How You Can Manage Risk When Car Shipping in Canada

Any auto transport in Canada is open to risk. And while no one ever wants to worry about the worst-case scenario when shipping their vehicle, unfortunately, shipping may not always go as planned. Whether it’s a delay in getting your vehicle or accidental damage, some events are outside anyone’s control. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t things you can do before shipping to help mitigate some of those perils.

While choosing a reputable auto transport team is the best thing you can do to ensure the security of your vehicle, there are other steps you can take to prepare yourself for unexpected challenges when car shipping around or across Canada. Here’s how!

Level-Up

Open-air auto transport carriers are widely used in Canada. The ability to transport nearly a dozen vehicles over two levels makes them cost-effective for both carriers and consumers. But because there are no walls, your vehicle is left open to the elements.

Usually, cars shipped on an open carrier are no more susceptible to damage than they would be driving on the road, however, it’s not unheard of for minor scratches and dents to occur, especially during periods of heavy wind or icy snow. You can help reduce some of this exposure risk by requesting your car be shipped on the second level where it is less likely to be a target for flying road debris.

Shine Before You Ship

If in the unlikely event that your vehicle does arrive damaged, you want to make sure you have a good case to collect repair costs from the auto transport’s insurance. To do this, you need to have well documented the condition of your car before it ships and immediately upon arrival.

• Thoroughly clean the vehicle inside and out

• Take pictures of the interior and exterior making notes of any existing damage (you’ll probably do this again when the carrier driver arrives)

• Remove all interior and exterior car accessories (like roof racks, bike racks, and clear out loss objects like change and sunglasses)

• Verify that your car’s maintenance checks are up to date and the car is driveable (if you are transporting a non-drivable vehicle that needs to be disclosed way before the carrier arrives)

When you get your car back, confirm its condition before the auto transport leaves. It can be difficult to prove damage after the fact. If the car is dirty, have it cleaned promptly can take pictures right away if there is any damage.

Thoroughly Vet the Car Shipping Company

Do not base your choice of auto transport on price alone. In Canada, shipping rates can vary dramatically, and while it may be tempting to go with the best deal, you’ll be much better off going with a carrier that offers both competitive rates and a rock-solid reputation.