Sahu
When you hand your vehicle over to an international transport company, you are placing a high-value asset in their care. Although reputable carriers such as Ship Cars Ltd take extensive precautions, the shipping process involves multiple handling stages. Your strongest protection—and the best tool for supporting any future insurance claim—is a complete photographic record of your vehicle’s condition.
This guide outlines a clear, step-by-step system for capturing accurate, high-quality photos before shipping and after delivery. When done correctly, your images form a solid, undeniable record that protects your interests.
Part 1: Why Photographic Evidence Is Essential
Taking photos is not a sign of distrust—it is responsible preparation. The advantages are significant:
Objective Condition Record
Ship Cars Ltd photos provide an impartial, factual record of your vehicle’s condition before shipping, eliminating any potential disputes.
Faster, More Effective Insurance Claims
If damage occurs during transit, a detailed set of photos becomes your strongest evidence, making the claims process faster and more straightforward.
Clear Accountability
Photographs help determine whether damage was pre-existing or happened during transport. This clarity makes responsibility easier to establish.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have documented everything thoroughly gives you confidence throughout the shipping journey.
Part 2: Pre-Shipping Photography Checklist
Take these photos on the day of collection, and ideally before the transport driver arrives. Use a DSLR or a modern smartphone with maximum resolution enabled. Make sure the vehicle is clean—dirt can hide scratches or swirl marks.
Exterior “Walk-Around” Shots
Capture the full exterior from 3–5 metres away:
-
Front (straight on)
-
Front ¾ (left and right)
-
Full driver-side view
-
Full passenger-side view
-
Rear ¾ (left and right)
-
Rear (straight on)
-
Roof (use a safe elevated platform if needed)
Close-Ups of Existing Imperfections
For every scratch, dent, chip, or scuff:
-
A close-up shot showing the damage clearly
-
A wider shot showing where it is located on the vehicle
Focus on:
-
Front and rear bumpers
-
Door edges and handles
-
Wheel arches
-
Alloy wheels (kerb rash, chips, scratches)
-
Windscreen and windows (cracks, chips)
-
Wing mirrors
-
Headlights and taillights
-
Paint blemishes and surface marks
Undercarriage & Tyres
Especially important for 4×4, classic, or low-clearance vehicles.
-
Tyres: Close-ups of the tread on all four wheels
-
Undercarriage: Photograph the visible underside where possible
Interior Photography
Open all doors for clear lighting. Photograph:
-
Dashboard and centre console
-
Front and rear seats
-
Steering wheel
-
Footwells
-
Instrument cluster (showing current mileage)
-
Headlining
-
Any visible wear, damage, or stains
Engine Bay & Boot
-
Engine bay: A clear overview shot
-
Boot/trunk: Photograph empty, showing interior panels and carpet condition
Aftermarket Features & Accessories
Include images of:
-
Custom wheels or body kits
-
Spoilers
-
Removable roof panels
-
Any upgraded or unique vehicle features
Part 3: Tips for High-Quality Evidence
Your photos are only useful if they are clear and accurate.
Ideal Lighting
Daylight is best. Avoid harsh midday sunlight that casts strong shadows. Overcast days reveal scratches more clearly.
If taking photos at night, use multiple light sources.
Ensure Sharp Focus
Tap the screen on the exact point you want focused. Blurry photos have little evidential value.
Show Scale
Place a coin, key, or your finger next to small imperfections to demonstrate their size.
Avoid Digital Zoom
Move closer instead. Digital zoom reduces clarity.
Use Accurate Timestamps
Make sure your phone or camera time is correct.
Alternatively, take a photo including that day’s newspaper or a dated document.
Part 4: Post-Collection Inspection & Photography
Never sign the delivery receipt until you have completed your inspection. This is your right, and it is essential.
Inspection Process
1. Before Unloading
If possible, check for major visible damage while the vehicle is still on the transport truck.
2. Detailed Walk-Around
Once unloaded, compare the vehicle against your pre-shipping photos using the same viewing angles.
3. Check the Mileage
Confirm the odometer reading is consistent with expected loading/unloading movement.
Post-Collection Photography
If any new damage is found:
-
Take immediate close-up and context shots
-
Photograph the transport truck and how your vehicle was positioned
-
Document everything before signing anything
Part 5: What to Do if You Discover Damage
If you identify new damage during collection, follow this process carefully:
1. Do NOT Sign a Clear Receipt
If the form states the vehicle was received in good condition, do not sign it.
2. Document the Damage on the Delivery Paperwork
Write a clear description (e.g., “3-inch scratch on front bumper, passenger side”).
Ask the driver to countersign the note.
3. Take Photos Immediately
Include:
-
Close-ups
-
Context shots
-
Photos showing the vehicle on or near the transporting truck
4. Notify Ship Cars Ltd and Your Insurer
Send them the photos and the annotated paperwork right away.
Part 6: How to Organise and Store Your Photos
A well-organised set of images is essential if you need to make a claim.
Create Two Folders
-
Pre-Shipment
-
Post-Collection
Use Clear File Names
Example:
-
PreShip_FrontBumper_Scratch_Closeup.jpg
-
PostColl_DriverDoor_Dent_Context.jpg
Back Up Everything
Store your files:
-
In cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive)
-
On a separate hard drive or USB
Keep Records Accessible
Retain files for 6–12 months, or until any insurance-related matters are fully resolved.
Part 7: Frequently Asked Questions
The driver is pressuring me to rush the inspection. What should I do?
Calmly state that you are entitled to a proper inspection. A professional driver will allow the necessary time.
I noticed a small scratch a few days after collection. What now?
This makes a claim very difficult. Damage must be documented at the time of delivery. This is why on-the-spot inspection is essential.
Do I need a professional photographer?
No. A modern smartphone works perfectly if you follow the lighting and focus guidelines.
How long should I keep the photos?
At least one year, or until any claim is fully closed.
Let Ship Cars Ltd Support a Safe, Documented Shipping Experience
At Ship Cars Ltd, transparency and customer protection are central to our service. We encourage all clients to follow this photographic checklist. Our support includes:
-
Pre-collection inspection guidance
-
Clear, documented handover procedures
-
Claims assistance should unexpected damage occur
Protecting your vehicle is a shared responsibility—and by following this simple but thorough process, you take an active role in ensuring a smooth, dispute-free shipping experience.
Contact Ship Cars Ltd today to discuss your vehicle shipping needs with a team committed to your security and peace of mind.
