Terms and Conditions - Lopes Express Shipping

Lopes Express Shipping INC
Customer/Carrier Contract Terms and Conditions
Effective Date: March 8, 2026

Lopes Express Shipping INC (“Transporter,” “we,” “us,” or “our”), located at 25 High St Apt 303, Clinton, MA 01510 (Phone: (941) 205-0012; Email: [email protected]; Website: www.lopesexpressshipping.com), provides vehicle transportation services (“Services”) on the terms below. By tendering a vehicle for transport, you (“Customer,” “you,” or “your”) agree to these Terms, which form the entire agreement. USDOT #3013626 | MC #30467. The Transporter will not be responsible for any damages not resulting from our negligence.

1. Vehicle Contents and Preparation
  • Customer verifies the vehicle is free of all contents. Transporter disclaims liability for personal belongings, valuables, or items not permanently attached to the vehicle.
  • Customer must prepare the vehicle: Remove loose parts, fragile/protruding accessories (e.g., spoilers, antennas), and ensure no more than 1/4 tank of fuel. Secure or remove external items to prevent damage or detachment. Any parts falling off during transport, including damage to other vehicles, are Customer’s responsibility.
  • Customer must disarm alarms, provide all keys/fobs, and ensure operability (brakes, steering, battery). If alarm activates, Transporter may silence it by reasonable means (e.g., battery disconnect).

1. Scheduling and Delivery Estimates
  • No pickup or delivery times/dates are guaranteed—all are estimates only. Delays from weather, traffic, Acts of God, mechanical issues, or other unforeseen events are possible.
  • Transporter does not commit to delivery for specific events/markets and is not liable for resulting losses. No auto rental reimbursements for delays, damage, or accidents.

1. Exclusions from Liability
  Transporter is not responsible for:
  • Leaking fluids (e.g., battery acid, brakes, coolant, antifreeze), freezing (engine/cooling/batteries), or industrial fallout/Acts of Nature.
  • Mechanical/electrical issues (e.g., engine, transmission, drive train, wiring, radios, AC, alarms, computers, alignments, suspension, tie-down failures).
  • Exhaust systems, mufflers, tailpipes (no exceptions).
  • Chips, dings, stone damage, glass scratches/chips/shattering from road exposure/wear/tear (no exceptions).
  • Customer’s comprehensive/collision insurance remains primary; our cargo insurance is limited to $100,000 maximum liability per vehicle and only for negligence.

1. Pickup, Delivery, and Customer Presence
  • Customer or designated agent must be present at pickup/delivery for inspection and to sign Bill of Lading (BOL). Note all pre-existing damage on BOL at pickup.
  • At delivery, inspect and note new damage on BOL before signing. No exceptions honored without BOL notation.
  • If absent, designate an agent in writing. We will notify via phone/SMS/email before arrival (you consent to electronic contact; reply STOP to opt-out of non-transactional texts).

1. Payments and Fees
  • Full payment due cash on delivery (COD): Cash, certified check, money order, or cashier’s check. No personal checks/credit cards unless pre-approved in writing.
  • Failure to pay on time: Vehicle stored at our chosen facility; Customer pays all fees (transport, tow, storage at $50/hour after 1 hour grace, re-delivery).
  • Inoperable en route (e.g., fuel, battery, fluids): +$250 fee, payable COD. Excessive delays by Customer: +$50/hour cash.

1. Claims Process**
  • Submit written claims within 24 hours of delivery, with photos, BOL copy, and two repair estimates.
  • We settle at actual cost but may require inspection/estimate from our shop. No claims against agents/brokers—direct to Transporter only.
  • All claims must be settled within 30 days per FMCSA regulations.

1. Governing Law and Disputes
  • Governed by Massachusetts law (incorporating FMCSA federal rules). Venue: Middlesex County, Massachusetts courts (municipal/state/federal as appropriate).
  • Pre-suit negotiation required. Customer waives jury trial if applicable.

1. Miscellaneous
  • This is the complete agreement—no oral changes. Severability: Invalid provisions don’t affect others.
  • We may update Terms; version at booking applies. Continued use = acceptance.
  • Customer acknowledges receipt of federally-required “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” pamphlet.