One of the most important documents that you will handle when you are shipping a car is the inspection form that is also known as your Bill of Lading (BOL). It will provide a description of the condition of the car when it is picked up and dropped off, and will protect you if any damage occurs. Many purchasers will, of course, ask: “Can I have a copy of the inspection form?”
You have a right to a copy so that you can have proof of the vehicle’s condition before and after transportation.
In this article, we will cover the importance of the inspection form, how to request the form, what the form includes and how to protect yourself during the vehicle shipping process. By choosing a reputable shipping company such as Car-Transport.org, you can easily get your vehicle inspection form and ensure your vehicle is in safe hands.
Understand What the Inspection Form Is and Why You Need a Copy
Before requesting, it helps to know what a typical inspection form looks like and what information.
What is the inspection form?
Inspection form (also known as a Bill of Lading):
- Document the condition of your vehicle.
- Notes any pre-existing dents, scratches, or other cosmetic flaws
- Records mileage, accessories, and modifications.
- Acts as a legal contract between you and the carrier
- Is used at delivery to compare final vehicle condition.
Why you want a copy:
- Proof of condition: Required if you are needing or wanting to file an insurance claim.
- Transparency: It ensures that the carrier reported everything accurately.
- Peace of mind: You know exactly what was recorded before transport began.
- Legal protection: disputes become harder to resolve without a copy.
If damage is found and you have not filed an inspection form, the carrier may deny liability.
Yes, You Can Receive a Copy—Here’s How It Works
Most carriers provide the inspection form at the time of pick up or by sending you an email after the inspection appointment, but you can always ask.
You should receive a copy if:
Most carriers will give it to you automatically, either right after a pickup inspection or as an attachment to the shipment confirmation email that follows the appointment. If they don’t, you still have the right to ask for it and get it.
In any case, you should always receive the form immediately after the pickup inspection (paper printout or electronic) and again at vehicle delivery (when the driver completes the final inspection).
You will be provided with various copies:
You can also obtain a copy from your carrier or transport provider at any time, and it will be either a paper form that you and the driver sign or a PDF that is emailed to you or a text sent to you, or an inspection report that is created on an app and includes photographs.
Furthermore, given that many carriers now use electronic inspection tools, they can send you your copy quickly and clearly.
How to Request a Copy of Your Inspection Form
If you have not automatically received an inspection form, you can find out how to get one.
Step 1: Call your driver or dispatch
Most drivers can send:
- A photo of the form
- A scanned copy
- A screenshot of their mobile inspection app
Simply say:
“Can you please send me a copy of the inspection form for my records?”
Step 2: Contact your broker or transport service
Companies like Car-Transport.org have immediate access to the driver’s inspection report, which they can then send you.
Step 3: Ask for a digital copy.
Digital copies are:
- Easier to store
- Easier to zoom in on
- Harder to misplace
Step 4: Verify information received
Check the copy for:
- All signs of pre-existing damage
- Vehicle information
- Pickup and delivery dates
- Driver’s name
- Your signature
Step 5: Keep multiple copies of your file
Store the file in:
- Cloud storage
- Your phone gallery
- A designated folder for transport documents
This ensures you always have a backup.
How to Use the Inspection Form to Protect Yourself During Transport
Don’t just have a copy, you need to know how to use it. Here are suggestions that will enable you to get the most from your inspection form.
Before transport:
- Review the form carefully
- Compare the form with the photos you take
- Document all visible imperfections you observe.
- Be sure to have the driver sign the report.
During transport:
Your copy is available if you need to update it Refer to the form if your delivery timeline changes. You have to check your copy with dispatch.
At delivery:
- See also the inspection of the pickup.
- Document any new damage
- Do not sign for something “damage-free” if anything seems off
- Add notes directly onto the form before you sign
After delivery:
- If needed, file a damage claim immediately.
- Your form should function as primary evidence.
If your inspection form is completed correctly, you have the best chance of fair transport.
Work With a Transport Service That Provides Easy Access to Inspection Forms
Not all your transport services will be this straightforward, but if you choose the right service, it is easy to receive and review your inspection form.
Look for companies that offer:
Car-Transport.org makes the whole process easy by including online inspection forms and paperwork. If you need a copy of the Car-Transport.org paperwork for your records in the future, a copy can be requested and emailed to you at any time. Their documentation follows a narrative style from start to finish, which helps to avoid any surprise so you and the carrier are on the same page.
Why Car-Transport.org is a top choice:
- They work with experienced, fully insured carriers.
- They ensure that all inspections are documented.
- Helping customers obtain their forms for inspections
- They provide guidance in case of discrepancies.
- They believe in simple, consumer-friendly communication.
- In the right company, documentation isn’t that much work.
Final Thoughts: Yes, You Can—and Should—Receive a Copy of Your Inspection Form
So, can you get a copy of the inspection form? Without a doubt, yes. In fact, keeping your own copy is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself during auto transport. This is not a mere formality. This records the condition of your vehicle before it’s loaded, and can help answer questions about damage later.
You can rest assured that if you use a customer oriented transporter like Car-Transport.org, the inspection form will be completed and available to you at any time. If you want the process of shipping your car to be simple and secure, go to Car-Transport.org and find out how! Their team is there to support you every step of the way.
