When shipping your vehicle, one of the most important questions to ask is: “Will my car be insured during transport?” The answer is yes — but it’s important to understand exactly what auto transport insurance covers (and what it doesn’t).
At Abbott Shippers, we work only with licensed and insured carriers so that our customers’ vehicles are protected from pickup to delivery. Here’s a breakdown of how auto transport insurance works.
What Is Auto Transport Insurance?
Auto transport insurance is coverage provided by the carrier to protect your vehicle against damage during shipping. It’s not the same as your personal auto policy — instead, it’s carried by the transport company.
✔️ Required by federal law for carriers
✔️ Protects against damage while your car is in transit
✔️ Typically included in your shipping quote (no extra charge)
What Does Auto Transport Insurance Cover?
Every carrier’s policy can differ, but most include:
✔️ Physical damage to your vehicle caused during loading, unloading, or transport (scratches, dents, broken mirrors, etc.)
✔️ Collision coverage in case of an accident while your car is on the trailer
✔️ Weather damage (hail, wind, debris) in some cases
✔️ Theft or vandalism while in the carrier’s possession
👉 Tip: Always ask your broker or carrier for a copy of their Certificate of Insurance (COI) before shipping.
What’s NOT Covered by Auto Transport Insurance?
There are a few important exclusions:
❌ Personal belongings inside the car – remove valuables, electronics, and luggage
❌ Pre-existing damage – anything noted in your inspection before pickup won’t be covered
❌ Mechanical issues – transport insurance covers external damage, not engine or transmission failures
❌ Loose parts or accessories – antennas, spoilers, or roof racks may not be covered unless removed or secured
How to Protect Yourself
✔️ Document your car’s condition with photos and notes before pickup
✔️ Verify the carrier’s insurance (Abbott Shippers does this for every partner)
✔️ Ask about deductibles and maximum coverage limits
✔️ Remove all personal items from the car
✅ Final Thoughts
Auto transport insurance gives you peace of mind knowing your vehicle is covered while in transit. While it doesn’t cover personal items or mechanical issues, it does cover physical damage, accidents, and theft.
At Abbott Shippers, we only work with licensed, bonded, and insured carriers, so you can ship your vehicle with confidence.
📞 Need help shipping your car safely? Get your free auto transport quote today and let Abbott Shippers handle the rest. heavy equipment transport safe, simple, and affordable.