Before a collision repair drop-off, confirm the date with the office, complete the repair authorization and make a transportation plan. The estimate visit and repair drop-off are separate appointments, so do not assume an estimate booking reserves a repair slot.

Use this checklist for a vehicle the shop has scheduled to receive. If the vehicle is unsafe to drive or is being towed, do not drive it to meet these instructions. Call the handling insurer about its towing process and call the shop to coordinate where the vehicle should go and what information it needs.

Confirm the appointment and paperwork

  • Confirm the drop-off date and time directly with the office.
  • Review and sign the repair authorization before work proceeds.
  • Have the insurer name, claim number and current estimate or instructions available if a claim is involved.
  • Ask whether the shop needs any additional approval or document before the vehicle arrives.

If an insurer has already issued a check for the repair, bring it with the related paperwork. Tell the office about checks already received so staff can explain how they fit the payment arrangements. If more damage is found after disassembly, a supplement or additional approval may still be needed.

Prepare only a scheduled drivable vehicle

For a vehicle that is scheduled and safe to drive to the shop, arrive with a full tank of fuel. Remove child seats, strollers and large items from the vehicle. These items can get in the way when the team prepares the vehicle for required calibration procedures. Ask the office if you are unsure what should be removed or if something large cannot be taken out.

If the vehicle is not safe to drive, do not drive it to meet this checklist. Call to coordinate its arrival. Discuss towing and arrival instructions with the insurer and shop first.

Plan how you will get around

Ask the insurer handling your claim whether rental coverage applies, who arranges it, the daily and total limits, and how long it may last. Ask what to do if the repair takes longer than the available coverage. Do not assume coverage or an extension; your insurer can explain the terms that apply to your claim.

Kulavic’s has limited short-term local loaners. Availability is not guaranteed, and a loaner may not fit a longer collision repair. Confirm any availability and restrictions with the office before relying on one. If you plan to leave a rental at pickup, confirm the return arrangement with both the shop and rental company.

Set up repair communication

Confirm the best phone number for updates and tell the shop if you cannot receive text messages. Text is the shop’s main contact method once the repair file is set up, but automated messages do not describe every repair stage or parts order. Ask who to contact if your number changes or you need details about a delay.

Keep a copy of your authorization, estimate and claim information somewhere you can reach it while the vehicle is at the shop. Write down questions about the scope, timing, parts or pickup payment so you can get them answered by the office.

The collision repair page explains the shop’s services and next steps. Read insurance repair information and the transportation FAQs, or contact the shop to confirm your appointment. For the stages after drop-off, see how long collision repair can take.

About this guidance

Shop procedures are based on information provided by the Kulavic’s team. Contact the office to confirm current arrangements for your vehicle.