Before pickup
Remove prohibited or valuable items, disclose non-operating conditions and modifications, and make the vehicle available in the condition described when booked.
Insurance
Vehicle transport protection, explained clearly
Oakwood Transport maintains commercial insurance for its carrier operations. This page explains the practical role of cargo coverage, vehicle inspections, owner responsibilities, and the claims process.
Coverage Framework
Insurance supports the shipment, but the transport documents control
Coverage for a specific loss depends on the circumstances, the applicable insurance policy, the bill of lading, and Oakwood's Conditions of Carriage. Policy terms, limits, deductibles, exclusions, and valuation rules may apply.
Proof of insurance can be requested before shipping. Customers should also keep their own vehicle insurance active and ask their insurer how coverage applies while the vehicle is being transported.
How Protection Works
Three parts of a properly documented shipment
At pickup
The driver and the person releasing the vehicle review visible condition. Existing damage should be recorded on the inspection report before the vehicle is loaded.
At delivery
Inspect the vehicle before signing final delivery documents. Any new visible damage should be recorded immediately and supported with clear photographs.
Coverage Questions
Damage that may require a different review
Not every problem discovered after transport is carrier-caused cargo damage. The cause and the shipment documentation must be reviewed.
Examples commonly reviewed separately
- Pre-existing, concealed, or previously repaired damage
- Mechanical, electrical, battery, or fluid-system failure
- Normal wear, deterioration, or manufacturer defects
- Loose aftermarket parts or accessories
- Personal property left inside the vehicle
Why the inspection matters
The pickup and delivery condition reports establish what was visible before and after transport. Photos, timestamps, the bill of lading, and driver notes help determine whether damage occurred while the vehicle was in Oakwood's care.
Claims Process
What to do if you believe damage occurred
Record it at delivery
Note visible damage on the delivery paperwork before signing and before the driver leaves.
Take photographs
Photograph the full vehicle, the affected area, and the surrounding panels in good light.
Contact Oakwood promptly
Provide the shipment reference, inspection documents, photographs, and a description of what changed.
Preserve the evidence
Do not authorize non-emergency repairs until Oakwood or the insurer has had a reasonable opportunity to inspect the damage.
Important: This page is a practical overview, not a statement of guaranteed coverage. The applicable insurance policy, signed shipping documents, and Conditions of Carriage determine how a specific claim is handled.