Your New Car is Here! What to Do After It's Delivered
The moment you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived: your newly purchased used car has been delivered. Whether it traveled across the state or across the country, seeing your vehicle roll off the transport truck is an exciting experience. But before you grab the keys and hit the open road, there are a few crucial steps you need to take to ensure everything is in order. This post-delivery inspection is vital to protect your investment and address any potential issues right away.
At Apex Auto, we want our customers to feel confident and secure in their purchase, from browsing our online inventory to the moment their car arrives at their doorstep. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide on what to do after your car is delivered. We’ll walk you through the essential inspection steps, what to look for, and how to handle any discrepancies.
1. Prepare for the Delivery
A smooth delivery process starts before the truck arrives. Here’s what you can do to be ready:
- Track Your Shipment:Most auto transport companies provide a tracking number or a contact person to get updates on your vehicle's ETA. Keep in touch with the driver or dispatcher to know when to expect them.
- Choose a Safe Location:The delivery truck will be large, so ensure there is a safe, spacious, and legal place for it to park and unload. A large, empty parking lot or a wide, quiet street is ideal.
- Gather Your Documents:Have your driver's license, proof of insurance, and any paperwork from the dealership, like the bill of sale, ready. The driver will need to verify your identity before handing over the keys.
2. The Initial Inspection: Don't Rush It
The most critical part of the delivery process is the initial inspection. The driver will have a Bill of Lading (BOL), which is the official report on the vehicle's condition when it was picked up. You will compare the car's current condition to what is noted on the BOL.
Do not feel rushed.The driver is a professional and understands that this is a necessary step. Take your time and be thorough. It’s best to do this in good light, so if your car arrives at night, make sure you have a bright flashlight.
What to Look For: Exterior Checklist
- Dents, Scratches, and Dings:Walk around the car several times, looking at it from different angles. Check the roof, hood, and trunk for any new damage. Compare what you see with the original BOL.
- Tires and Wheels:Inspect the tires for any cuts or bulges. Check the wheels for any new scuffs or scratches.
- Glass:Examine the windshield, windows, and mirrors for any chips or cracks that weren't there before.
- Underneath the Vehicle:Look under the car for any signs of leaking fluids.
What to Look For: Interior Checklist
- Upholstery and Surfaces:Check the seats, dashboard, and door panels for any new tears, stains, or scratches.
- Electronics:Turn on the car and test all the electronics. This includes the radio, navigation system, power windows, and locks.
- Mileage:Check the odometer to ensure the mileage is consistent with what was reported at pickup. A few extra miles are normal from loading and unloading, but a significant increase could be a red flag.
- Keys and Accessories:Make sure you receive all the keys, fobs, and any accessories that were supposed to come with the car, like floor mats or a spare tire.
3. Document Everything
If you find any new damage, it's crucial to document it properly.
- Take Clear Photos:Use your phone to take clear, well-lit photos of any new scratches, dents, or other issues. Take pictures from multiple angles and distances.
- Note it on the Bill of Lading:This is the most important step. Before you sign anything, make sure the driver notes the new damage on the Bill of Lading. If the damage is not noted on the BOL, it will be nearly impossible to file a successful insurance claim with the transport company.
- Get a Copy:Ensure you get a copy of the signed Bill of Lading with the damage noted.
4. What to Do If You Find Damage
Discovering damage can be stressful, but there is a clear process to follow.
- Stay Calm and Be Polite:The driver is not personally responsible for the damage, but they are a key part of the claims process. A calm and professional demeanor will make the process smoother.
- Contact the Transport Company:As soon as the driver leaves, contact the auto transport company to inform them of the damage and start the claims process. They will guide you on the next steps.
- Get Repair Estimates:The transport company's insurance will likely require you to get one or two estimates for the repairs.
5. After the Inspection: The First Few Days
Once the inspection is complete and you've accepted delivery, there are a few more things to do in the first few days of owning your new car.
- Get a Professional Inspection:Even if you've done a thorough inspection yourself, it's always a good idea to have a trusted mechanic give the car a once-over. They can check the engine, transmission, brakes, and other mechanical components that you can't see. This is especially important when buying a used car.
- Register and Title the Vehicle:You'll need to get your car registered and titled in your state as soon as possible. The process varies by state, so check your local DMV's website for the specific requirements. Apex Auto provides all the necessary paperwork to make this process as smooth as possible for our out-of-state buyers. For more information, check out our guide onhow to buy a used car from out of state.
- Enjoy Your New Ride:Once all the paperwork is done and you're confident in your car's condition, it's time to enjoy your new purchase!
The Apex Auto Promise
At Apex Auto, we pride ourselves on transparency and customer satisfaction. We provide detailed vehicle history reports and high-resolution photos of all our cars, so you know exactly what you're getting before you buy. Our nationwide shipping is handled by trusted and insured carriers to ensure your car arrives safely. If you have any questions about our inventory or the shipping process, don't hesitate tocontact us.