What auto transport insurance actually covers, what it doesn't, and the simple steps that protect you during a vehicle shipment.
Yes — your vehicle is insured in transit
Every licensed, reputable auto carrier is required to carry cargo insurance that covers the vehicles they transport. When you ship with a trustworthy company, your car is covered against damage that occurs during loading, transit and unloading.
At Neptune Auto Transport, we verify each carrier's active insurance before your vehicle is loaded, and we are happy to share those coverage details with you on request.
What carrier insurance covers
Carrier cargo insurance covers damage to the vehicle caused by the carrier during transport — for example, damage from improper securing or a transport-related incident. The vehicle itself is the insured cargo.
Coverage limits vary by carrier and by the type of transport. Enclosed carriers, which handle high-value vehicles, typically carry higher limits than standard open carriers.
What it does not cover
A few things fall outside transport insurance. Personal items left inside the vehicle are not covered, which is why you should remove valuables before shipping. So-called 'acts of God' (like hail or storm damage) may be excluded on open transport — one more reason high-value vehicles often go enclosed.
Pre-existing damage is also not covered, which is exactly why the condition inspection at pickup matters so much.
How to protect yourself
Three simple steps cover you completely. First, photograph your clean vehicle from all angles before pickup. Second, complete the condition report on the Bill of Lading carefully with the driver at pickup. Third, inspect the vehicle against your photos at delivery before signing off.
Ask your transporter for the carrier's insurance details if you want them, and consider enclosed transport for especially valuable vehicles. With a reputable company, these steps give you full peace of mind.