How to Handle Damages During Car Shipping Australia

Note: This is a general approach and each carrier and service company handle things differently.

While most car transport journeys go smoothly, occasionally things don’t go as planned. You might expect your vehicle to arrive in perfect condition, scratch- and dent-free, especially when you’ve booked with a reputable car shipping company. But if you notice unexpected damage when your car is delivered, it’s important to act quickly and follow the proper procedures. Here’s how to handle car damage during shipping in Australia and ensure your rights are protected.

Report the Damage Immediately

The moment you notice any damage upon delivery, your first step should be to contact the transport company. Mostly in Australia, once you drive out of the depot you can’t make a claim! So you can make a claim/ notify the company the moment you see damage and before you leave depot or the truck driver leaves. Failing to report an issue at time of delivery may mean the carrier won’t be responsible.  

Call the company directly, explain the issue, and provide any details they request. The representative should begin the claim process, log your report, and advise you on the next steps. It’s essential to stay proactive and follow up regularly during this process.

Document the Damage on the Condition Report

One of the most important steps in handling transport-related damage is documenting it on the Condition report.  When your car is delivered, thoroughly inspect it and record any damage immediately on the Condition report. Be descriptive and ensure the driver understands that the damage wasn’t present before transport. Both parties, you and the driver, must sign the Condition Report to acknowledge the vehicle’s condition upon delivery. Later, this document will be compared to the original inspection report or pre-shipping condition photos to confirm the damage occurred during transport. 

Understand the Repair and Claims Process

After reporting the damage, the transport company will reach out to the specific carrier responsible for the transit. Minor damage, such as small dents or surface scratches, can often be repaired quickly by the carrier themselves. However, more significant damage may require insurance involvement, which can extend the timeline.

In Australia, all reputable vehicle transport companies have both cargo and liability insurance. This coverage protects customers against financial loss if their vehicle is damaged during shipping.

Do not get the vehicle repaired immediately, wait for approval and written authorisation. Beginning repairs before approval may affect your eligibility for compensation.

Once authorised, you can proceed with the repairs. After repairs are complete, the company will issue your reimbursement or directly settle the bill with the repair shop, depending on the arrangement.

Why Pre-Transport Documentation Matters

The best way to protect yourself during car transport is to document your vehicle’s condition thoroughly before handover. Take clear, timestamped photos of all sides, interior sections, and any existing marks or scratches. These records serve as proof and make claims much easier to process if damage occurs.

A clean car makes this step easier, and a professional company like Car Transport Express will always recommend this as part of your pre-shipping checklist.

Final Thoughts

While damage during car transport is rare, it’s essential to know how to handle it if it happens. By reporting damage quickly, documenting it accurately on the Condition report and working closely with your transport provider and insurer, you can ensure a fair and efficient resolution.

At Car Transport Express, we prioritise safety, communication, and transparency. Our carrier partners are fully insured to give you peace of mind throughout your vehicle relocation. Get a quote for your next vehicle transport, Need help or have questions? Contact our support team, we’re here to assist.