Condition Report & Checklist
Everything you need to know about inspecting your vehicle at pickup and delivery — and what to do if there is a problem.
Step 01
At Pickup
Your driver will bring the Bill of Lading, a standardized form that documents your vehicle’s condition at pickup and again at delivery. It is your most important protection during transport.
- Inspect the vehicle together with your driver in a well-lit area before anything is loaded.
- Your driver will present the Bill of Lading. Review it carefully, note any existing damage, and make sure both you and the driver sign it.
- Keep your copy. You will need it at delivery.
- Take photos and video of the vehicle with the driver present before it is loaded.
Step 02
At Delivery
Walk around the vehicle with your driver and compare its current condition against the Bill of Lading from pickup before signing anything.
- Inspect the vehicle in a well-lit area. If delivery happens at night, use a flashlight.
- If the vehicle arrived dirty, wipe down dusty areas so you can distinguish dirt from actual damage.
- Note any damage on the Bill of Lading before signing. No claim can be processed without a carrier signature.
- Both you and the carrier sign the condition report and each keep a copy.
About the Bill of Lading
The Bill of Lading is the official document that records your vehicle’s condition at both pickup and delivery. Your driver brings it — but you should know what it looks like before they arrive.
Download the sample PDF below to familiarize yourself with the form before your pickup date. Any damage not noted at pickup cannot be claimed at delivery.
If There Is Damage
Any damage caused during transport must be documented on the condition report at the time of delivery. A claim must be filed within 48 hours of delivery.
Document the Bill of Lading
Note any and all damage before signing. The carrier must acknowledge it in writing at delivery.
Photograph Everything
Take photos from multiple angles and make sure to keep copies for your records before the driver leaves.
Notify Your Mercury Agent
Contact Mercury immediately so we can update your file and assist with the carrier’s claims process.
File Within 48 Hours
Claims must be filed within 48 hours of delivery. Without a carrier-signed Bill of Lading, a claim cannot be processed.
Before Pickup
Pre-Pickup Checklist
Complete these steps before your carrier arrives to ensure a smooth, problem-free pickup.
Provide keys for all locks
Include ignition, trunk, gas cap, and any locked compartment. Leave copies only, keep your originals.
Keep the tank at a quarter full
DOT weight regulations require the tank to be less than a quarter full at pickup.
Remove toll devices
EZ Pass, SunPass, and similar devices can activate while on the carrier. Remove them before pickup.
Remove personal items
Remove all personal items from the vehicle before pickup. Personal belongings are not part of the vehicle-transport service and are not covered by the carrier’s cargo policy. If Mercury approves any exception, it must be confirmed in writing before pickup.
No firearms or fire extinguishers
These items cannot be transported in the vehicle under any circumstances.
Disable alarm systems
Disconnect the alarm or provide the remote before dropoff.
Clean your vehicle
A clean vehicle allows for an accurate inspection report at pickup and destination.
Remove important paperwork
Do not leave your title, registration, or any personal documents inside the vehicle.