What to Do If Your Classic Car Arrives with Scratches or Scuffs

Anyone who owns a classic car knows the stress involved in vehicle shipping. You put trust in your car shipping company, do your research, pick the right transport—but what happens when your car arrives with a scratch, dent, or any kind of new damage? Receiving your prized ride in less-than-perfect shape can be nerve-wracking, but knowing the steps to take makes all the difference.

Shipping a Classic Car: What Can Go Wrong?

During transport, classic cars are exposed to risks—like rough weather conditions, loading and unloading mistakes, or even a loose strap in the carrier. Even with the best auto transport companies, dents and scratches sometimes happen. That’s why taking key precautions is essential to ensure a smooth shipment.

Before You Ship: Inspection and Documentation

A thorough inspection of your vehicle before shipping is your best defense. Here’s how to do it right:

• Clean your car thoroughly so you can easily spot any existing damage.
• Take pictures of your car from all angles under good lighting. Include both wide shots and close-ups of any scratches or dents.
• Document all existing damage and create a detailed checklist. This will serve as proof if you need to file a claim.
• Remove personal belongings from the vehicle to prevent them from getting damaged or lost during shipment.
• Choosing a reputable auto transport company with a solid track record reduces the risk of damage, but preparing your vehicle for transportation is still crucial.

Upon Delivery: What To Do When Your Car Arrives

Once the carrier delivers your classic car, don’t rush the process. Here’s your post-delivery checklist:

• Check the condition of your vehicle right away, before signing anything.
• Compare the current state to your pre-shipping photos and documentation.
• If you discover a new scratch, dent, or any kind of damage, document it immediately and note it on the Bill of Lading.
• Be sure to go over both the exterior and interior, as shipping a classic car can sometimes result in hidden issues.

If Your Car is Damaged During Transport: Claim Process

If your car arrives with new damage:

1. Notify the transport company or carrier immediately—ideally while the driver is still present.
    
2. Take clear pictures of the damage from multiple angles to provide solid documentation in your claim.
    
3. File a claim with the car shipping company or their insurance provider as soon as possible. Make sure all your documentation is part of the submission.
    
4. Keep records of every conversation, email, and document. Having everything organized will make the process smoother.
    

Insurance coverage for classic cars during vehicle shipping varies. Review your insurance policy and confirm with the carrier what is included in their auto transport insurance coverage, especially regarding deductibles and exclusions.

Rights and Responsibilities

As a car owner, you have the right to receive your vehicle in the same condition it was in before the transport. If the shipping company denies responsibility, be persistent but professional. Transporters are obligated to investigate and handle claims seriously, especially when their process or error led to the damage.

Tips to Reduce the Risk of Damage

• Choose a reputable auto transport company—ask about company’s insurance coverage and claim process.
• Consider using an enclosed carrier for classic cars to reduce exposure to the elements.
• Be proactive and thorough in your inspections—both before shipment and upon delivery.
• Don’t sign the delivery paperwork until you’ve finished your inspection and documented any issues.

Wrapping It Up: Taking Care of What Matters

Sending off a classic car for transport isn’t something owners take lightly—and understandably so. These cars often carry more than just financial value. That’s why taking the time to prepare properly and knowing how to deal with damage, if it happens, is so important. A few simple steps before and after shipping can save you a lot of frustration later on and help make sure your car shows up just as it should.

If you’re unsure about anything—whether it’s the paperwork, the insurance, the inspection, or choosing the right hauler—it’s better to ask the questions now than fix problems later. And if something does come up, it’s easier to handle when you know what to expect.

What should I do if my classic car shows up with damage?

If your car arrives and you notice a scratch, scuff, or anything else that wasn’t there before, don’t wait—grab your phone and get pictures from different angles. Make notes, too. It might feel frustrating in the moment, but this step’s important. If you end up needing to file a claim, those photos and notes could make the difference.

How can I properly check over the vehicle after delivery?

The moment your car comes off the trailer, give it a careful once-over. Walk around it slowly and check for anything that looks new—scratches, marks, or dents. Don’t rush. Pop the door, look inside, and make sure everything’s as it should be. Do all this before you sign anything. Once that paperwork’s signed, it’s much harder to dispute damage.

What if I spot damage after the driver has already left?

Noticing a problem after the fact makes things a little tougher—but it’s not a lost cause. If you took pictures when the car was delivered or documented the condition right away, you’ll still have something to go on. Get in touch with the transport company as soon as you can, share what you noticed, and include anything you’ve got on file. The sooner you act, the better.

Are there any specific things I should do when shipping a classic car?

Definitely. With older cars—especially those with original paint or custom work—you’ll want to look into enclosed transport. It costs more than open shipping, but it helps protect the car from rain, dust, and road debris. If you’ve spent years keeping your vehicle in top condition, sealed transport is worth it.

What documents should I have ready before shipping?

Have the basics on hand: your shipping agreement, current registration or proof of ownership, and any insurance information that applies to the move. If anything unexpected happens, having these papers in order makes it a lot easier to sort things out with the carrier or insurance company.

How do I pick a car shipping service I can trust?

Start by looking at reviews—especially from people who’ve shipped classic or collector cars. Make sure the company explains whether they use open or enclosed carriers, and don’t hesitate to ask about their experience moving older vehicles. Reputation and specialty experience matter more than just finding the lowest quote.

What should I ask a transport company before booking?

Have a real conversation before you hand over the keys. Ask about their insurance coverage, how your car will be loaded, secured, and transported, and what happens if there’s damage along the way. Every good company should be able to answer these without dodging.

Is it okay to ship during busy times of the year?

You can ship during peak season, but it takes a little extra planning. Around holidays or summer months, trucks fill up fast. If you know your timeline, it’s smart to book early and follow up to make sure the schedule is still locked in. That helps avoid delays or last-minute surprises—especially with older cars that might need special handling.