When relocating your vehicle in 2026, the logistics of transport are often secondary to the safety of the asset itself. With the rise of advanced electric vehicle (EV) technology and the increasing market value of modern automobiles, understanding the role of car shipping insurance is essential for a secure move.
At Rapid Auto Shipping, we have spent over 14 years refining a protective framework that prioritizes transparency and security. We don’t view insurance as a luxury add-on; we treat it as a fundamental standard for every vehicle we move.
1. Is Insurance Included in Your Quote?
The short answer is yes. In 2026, many auto transport brokers have shifted toward complex “fee-stacking” models, but Rapid Auto Shipping maintains an all-inclusive pricing philosophy.
Every quote we provide automatically includes comprehensive carrier insurance. By law, any interstate auto hauler must carry liability insurance, but we take it a step further by manually verifying that every driver in our vetted network of over 50,000 carriers maintains high-limit cargo insurance. You should never be asked to pay a separate “insurance fee” at checkout when booking with a reputable provider.
2. What Does Car Shipping Insurance Cover?
Understanding what is protected during transit is vital for managing your expectations. A standard transport policy at Rapid Auto Shipping covers:
- Physical External Damage: This includes scratches, dings, or dents caused by the carrier’s equipment or negligence during the loading and unloading process.
- Transit Collisions: In the rare event of a road accident or the overturning of the trailer, your vehicle is protected for repair or replacement costs up to the policy’s limits.
- Theft and Vandalism: While the vehicle is in the carrier’s “care, custody, and control,” it is insured against theft or malicious damage.
Note on Limits: In 2026, our standard open carriers typically carry $100,000 to $250,000 in cargo insurance, while enclosed carriers often hold policies exceeding $1,000,000 to accommodate luxury and classic vehicles.
3. Important Exclusions: What Is Not Covered?
Insurance is designed to cover the carrier’s liability, but it does not act as a catch-all warranty. Be aware of the following industry-standard exclusions:
- Personal Belongings: Federal law prohibits carriers from insuring household items left inside the car. If you leave electronics, luggage, or valuables in the trunk and they are lost or damaged, they are not covered under the car shipping insurance policy.
- Internal Mechanical Failures: Insurance covers damage caused by external forces. It does not cover internal issues, such as a battery dying, a transmission failing, or an engine leak that occurs during the normal course of transport.
- Acts of God: Standard policies often exclude damage from extreme weather events like hail or floods. For 100% protection against environmental elements, we highly recommend our Enclosed Auto Transport service.
4. Why Rapid Auto Shipping is the Preferred Choice in 2026
We have built our reputation on a foundation of reliability and risk mitigation. Our 2026 service model includes several key safeguards:
- $0 Down Payment: We do not charge an upfront deposit. You only pay once your shipment is officially booked with a vetted, insured carrier.
- No Scratch Guaranteed Delivery: Our drivers are professionals who utilize soft-tie systems and advanced loading techniques to ensure your car arrives in the exact condition it left.
- Online Tracking Service: We provide real-time updates so you can monitor your vehicle’s journey, offering an extra layer of peace of mind.
- Verified Carrier Network: We don’t just find a truck; we find the right truck. Every carrier is screened for active FMCSA authority and a clean safety record.
Conclusion: Security Without Hidden Costs
Choosing car shipping insurance isn’t about buying an extra product; it’s about choosing a partner that respects the value of your vehicle. At Rapid Auto Shipping, we provide the expertise and the coverage necessary to ensure your car’s journey is as safe as it is seamless. In 2026, you deserve a transport experience defined by transparency and professional care.
