What Value Can You Get With A Vehicle Transport Insurance From A Car Transporter?

Transporting a car across long distances can be stressful. Whether you’re moving to a new city or buying a vehicle from a distant seller, it’s important to know that your car will arrive safely. While most reputable car transporters offer standard insurance, opting for extra vehicle transport insurance can provide additional protection and peace of mind. Let’s break down the value of this insurance and why it’s worth considering.

What is Vehicle Transport Insurance?

Vehicle transport insurance is coverage that protects your car during shipping. Car transporters usually include some form of basic insurance in their services. However, this basic coverage might not be enough to fully cover your vehicle’s value in case of damage or unexpected events. Extra vehicle transport insurance allows you to extend that coverage, ensuring better financial protection if something goes wrong.

How Standard Insurance Works with Car Transporters

When a car transporter offers basic insurance, it typically covers damages that occur due to accidents caused by the driver or transport company. However, this coverage may have limits. For example, a transporter’s policy might only reimburse you up to a specific amount per pound of the vehicle’s weight, leaving you responsible for the rest if damages exceed that limit.

A key statistic to know: Most standard transport insurance offers coverage of only $50,000 to $100,000 per shipment. This may sound like a lot, but it can fall short if you are transporting high-value vehicles like luxury cars, SUVs, or classic collectibles.

Benefits of Extra Vehicle Transport Insurance

Higher Coverage Limits

If you’re transporting a car worth more than what the basic policy covers, extra vehicle transport insurance ensures that you won’t have to pay out of pocket for expensive repairs or replacement. For example, if your car is valued at $80,000, and the transporter’s basic policy only covers up to $50,000, you’ll have to cover the $30,000 difference unless you have extra insurance.

Protection Against Unforeseen Risks

Standard insurance policies often limit coverage to accidents during transit, but what about other risks? Cars can be damaged during loading, unloading, or by weather events like hailstorms. Extra insurance provides better protection, including coverage for these unexpected situations.

A quick fact: In 2023, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 8,710 hailstorm events in the U.S. alone. These storms can cause dents, broken windows, or chipped paint on vehicles. Without proper insurance, repair costs could easily exceed $2,500.

Peace of Mind for Long-Distance Shipping

If your vehicle is traveling a long way—across multiple states or even internationally—there are more chances for issues to arise. With extra vehicle transport insurance, you can rest easy knowing that no matter how far your car travels, it has full protection throughout the journey.

Better Suited for High-End Vehicles

If you own a luxury car, classic vehicle, or sports car, you’ll need more than just the basic insurance. These vehicles are expensive to repair, and their parts are often harder to find. For example, fixing a cracked windshield on a luxury vehicle can cost anywhere between $1,000 and $4,500, depending on the make and model. An extra insurance policy ensures that these higher repair costs are covered.

Is Extra Insurance Worth the Investment?

The cost of extra vehicle transport insurance depends on several factors, including the value of your car, the length of the journey, and the type of coverage you select. Typically, you can expect to pay around 1% to 3% of your vehicle’s value for comprehensive insurance.

For example, if your car is worth $30,000, the extra insurance may cost between $300 to $900. This may seem like a significant amount, but it can save you from paying thousands of dollars out of pocket in case of damage.

What Happens Without Extra Coverage?

If you choose not to get extra vehicle transport insurance, you’re relying solely on the car transporter’s basic coverage. This can be risky, especially if you’re transporting an expensive vehicle or sending it across a long distance. In cases where damage occurs and the transporter’s policy doesn’t fully cover it, you’ll have to pay the rest.

For example, let’s say your vehicle sustains $8,000 worth of damage during transit, but the transporter’s insurance only covers $5,000. Without additional insurance, you’ll have to pay the remaining $3,000 yourself.

Tips for Choosing Extra Vehicle Transport Insurance

• Assess the Value of Your Car: Make sure you know your vehicle’s market value. This will help you determine whether the transporter’s basic coverage is enough or if you need extra insurance.
• Compare Insurance Providers: Some car transporters partner with third-party insurers to offer better rates. Compare quotes to find the best policy for your needs.
• Read the Fine Print: Check what the policy covers and excludes. For example, some policies may not cover cosmetic damage, like small scratches or dents.
• Consider Special Coverage: If you’re transporting a rare or vintage car, look for policies that offer specialty coverage.

Extra Protection, Extra Value

When transporting your vehicle, it’s essential to consider more than just the basic insurance provided by the car transporter. Opting for extra vehicle transport insurance can offer higher coverage limits, protect against unforeseen risks, and provide peace of mind—especially for long-distance trips or high-end vehicles. While the additional cost may seem high, it’s a worthwhile investment to avoid expensive repair bills down the road.

In the end, the value of extra insurance lies in the security it provides. Whether it’s protection from weather damage, accidents, or transport mishaps, having comprehensive coverage ensures that your car arrives in the same condition as it left—without any surprise expenses.