ATV SHIPPING PROTECTION
If you are shipping your ATV, it’s safe to bet that it won’t be damaged along the way. However, purchasing extra protection is always a good idea. The personal policy you have taken out on your ATV will very likely not cover any damages that occur as a result of transportation by a professional carrier. It’s a good idea to check with the carrier’s company about what kind of minimum coverage they offer. Most companies should offer a certain amount of damage coverage. Ask to see the company’s insurance certificate, which will give you all the information you need about their coverage. You can also lookup a licensed carrier’s insurance information at SAFER.
Shipments transported with uShip are eligible for additional coverage through the uShip Protection Plan. If you choose to purchase additional coverage with uShip, simply do so when you accept the winning bid. The process is quick and easy, and ensures that you are covered should your ATV be damaged.
BEFORE YOUR ATV SHIPMENT
There are a couple of steps you can take before pickup that will aid you in case you need to open a case:
- Take date-stamped photos of your ATV from several angles.
- Have the ATV appraised for value.
- Document any pre-existing damage and have the transporter sign this at pickup.
Read more about properly preparing your ATV for transport.
PURCHASING ADDITIONAL PROTECTION
If you do not purchase additional coverage from a third party such as the uShip Protection Plan, it’s a good idea to purchase whatever insurance the transportation company offers above their base minimum coverage. Usually, the minimum coverage will not cover the overall worth of your ATV, so it’s a good idea to buy additional coverage.
When talking to the transportation company about their different options, it’s important to think about these questions:
- Does the policy cover both internal and external damage?
- Is there a maximum amount offered with the coverage?
- Does the policy offer coverage on specialty items?
RESPONDING TO DAMAGE
There is always a possibility that some damage will occur to your ATV during the shipping process. If this does happen, the best idea is to record all of the damages on a “Bill of Lading”. Have your transporter review and sign the copy. You can still accept the ATV with the damages incurred and face no ownership of the damages, so long as you and the transporter have signed the “Bill of Lading.”
Your carrier should be able to help you with the filing process. They should be very helpful, as accidents and damages do tend to occur naturally. If your carrier is not being helpful, you will have the opportunity to issue a complaint with the better Business Bureau or the Department of Transportation.
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It’s a good idea to take the proper precautions and make sure you are completely ready for shipping your ATV when the carrier comes.
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