Help Center / Car Shipping Bill of Lading & Vehicle Inspection
Car Shipping Bill of Lading & Vehicle Inspection
Your shipment paperwork records the vehicle handoff and its observed condition. Reviewing it carefully at pickup and delivery gives you and the carrier a clear record to refer to throughout the shipment.
What is a bill of lading?
A bill of lading is the carrier’s transportation document and receipt for the vehicle. It may include shipment details, pickup and delivery information, transport terms and signatures. The condition report may appear on the same document or in a separate inspection record.
Carriers use different paper and electronic formats. Ask the driver how to access your signed copies. Check that the vehicle, locations and contact details match your shipment, and read the document before signing.
The pickup inspection establishes the starting condition
Before loading, inspect the vehicle with the driver. Take clear photos of the exterior from multiple angles and close-ups of existing marks. When practical, photograph the roof, glass, wheels and bumpers as well.
Ensure visible scratches, dents and other existing damage are described accurately on the inspection report. If a note or diagram is unclear, ask the driver to clarify or correct it before signing. Keep your signed pickup copy and photos together.
A clean vehicle and adequate lighting make this easier. Our preparation guide explains how to get ready before the truck arrives.
The delivery inspection compares what changed
- Inspect after unloading. Walk around the vehicle with the driver before signing the delivery report.
- Compare records. Use the pickup report and photos to identify any new visible damage.
- Document specifically. Note the location and nature of any new damage on the delivery report before signing. Take clear close-up and wider photos.
- Keep the final copy. Obtain the signed carrier report, including your damage notes, in paper or electronic form.
If you disagree with a condition note or have difficulty getting an issue recorded, contact Onyx promptly while preserving your own photos and written account. Do not sign an inaccurate clean-condition statement without raising the discrepancy.
If damage is discovered
Contact Onyx promptly and no later than 48 hours after delivery if you intend to file a claim, as required by our Terms of Service. Include your order number, a description of the issue and the supporting documentation.
Keep the pickup and delivery reports, dated photos, relevant messages and any estimates or other documents requested for the claim. Ask the carrier or its insurer what additional evidence is needed and how to submit it. Avoid discarding evidence or authorizing repairs before understanding their documentation requirements, unless immediate action is necessary for safety.
Claims are filed directly with the carrier. Onyx can provide shipment and carrier insurance documentation to support the process. Coverage and claim decisions depend on the applicable policy and circumstances. See our car shipping insurance guide.
Keep one complete shipment record
Save your booking confirmation, carrier details, signed pickup and delivery reports, vehicle photos, payment records and correspondence in one place. If someone else attends a handoff, ask them to send you the records immediately.
Onyx checks the assigned carrier’s operating authority and cargo insurance before assignment and attaches the carrier’s insurance documentation to the shipment record. Your handoff reports and photos provide the separate condition evidence needed if a question arises.
Frequently asked questions
Is the bill of lading the same as an insurance policy?
No. It documents transportation and the vehicle handoff. Carrier insurance coverage is governed by the applicable insurance policy, including its limits and exclusions.
Can I sign electronically?
Many carriers use electronic documents. Read the details and condition notes before signing, and request a copy you can save and access after the driver leaves.
What if someone else receives my vehicle?
Choose an authorized adult representative who can inspect the vehicle with the driver, compare the pickup records, document any new damage and keep the signed delivery copy.
Does noting damage guarantee that a claim will be paid?
No. Accurate notes and photos support the review, but the carrier or insurer evaluates the claim under the applicable terms and circumstances.
Can I withhold payment because of a claim?
Our Terms of Service require payment in full without offsets for claims. Document the concern and follow the carrier claim process separately from your payment obligations.
Plan your next step
Questions about your shipment?
Contact Onyx with your order number for help with your shipment details. Call 800-808-0176 or email info@onyxautotransport.com.
This guide summarizes the process. Your booking details and our Terms of Service govern your shipment.