How to Tell if a Car Shipping Company is a Scam
How to Tell if a Car Shipping Company is a Scam
Blog Article
When you're handing over your car; one of your most valuable possessions to a vehicle shipping company, you want to be sure you’re working with a trustworthy and professional service. Unfortunately, the auto transport industry, like many others, has its fair share of scams. From fake carriers to hidden fees and ghost companies, the risks are real if you don't do your homework.
Whether you're moving across the country, buying a car out of state, or using enclosed car shipping for a classic or luxury vehicle, it’s important to know how to spot a scam before it costs you time, money, or worse your car.
Here’s how to tell if a car shipping company might be a scam, along with tips to help you choose a legitimate service you can trust.
1. No MC or USDOT Number
Every legitimate vehicle shipping company must be registered with the Federal Motor copyright Safety Administration (FMCSA). They are assigned a Motor copyright (MC) number and a USDOT number, which you can use to verify their legitimacy on the FMCSA’s official website.
Red flag: If a company refuses to provide this information or gives you a number that doesn't match the FMCSA records, walk away.
2. Too-Good-to-Be-True Pricing
While everyone loves a good deal, if a quote seems way lower than other companies, that’s a big warning sign. Scam companies often lure customers with extremely low prices, then hit them with hidden fees later or disappear with their deposit.
Tip: Get quotes from at least 3–5 different vehicle shipping companies. Compare the pricing and see if one is dramatically lower that’s likely your scammer.
3. Vague or Missing Contact Information
A trustworthy company will have a legitimate business address, a working phone number, and a professional-looking website. Scammers often use PO boxes or fake addresses and may be difficult to reach outside of email.
Test it: Try calling their customer service line. If it's constantly going to voicemail or feels sketchy, it’s not worth the risk.
4. Pushy Sales Tactics or High-Pressure Booking
Scammers often rush you to make a decision. They might claim there's a “limited-time discount” or that a truck is “leaving soon” and you have to book immediately. This is a manipulation tactic.
A professional enclosed car shipping provider, on the other hand, will give you time to consider your options, explain the shipping process, and provide transparent documentation.
5. Demanding Full Payment Upfront
Most reputable auto transport companies require a small deposit to reserve your spot, with the rest due upon delivery. If a company demands full payment upfront, especially via wire transfer, copyright, or prepaid gift cards that is a major scam indicator.
Note: Always use a secure and traceable form of payment, like a credit card, for protection.
6. No Insurance or Licensing Information
Any legitimate vehicle shipping company will be insured and licensed. Insurance protects your car during transport in case of damage or accidents. If a company can't provide proof of insurance or dodges your questions about liability, that’s a huge red flag.
For enclosed car shipping, where customers are typically transporting high-value vehicles, insurance coverage should be even more comprehensive.
7. Fake Reviews or No Reviews at All
Scam companies often create fake five-star reviews or steal the reviews of other businesses. On the flip side, a complete lack of reviews can be just as suspicious.
Check independent review sites like copyright, BBB (Better Business Bureau), and TransportReviews.com. Be cautious of any company that only has glowing reviews with no details, or lots of reviews that all look like they were written by the same person.
Pro tip: Look for patterns in customer complaints. Are people reporting sudden price hikes or cars being held hostage? That’s your cue to stay away.
8. No Physical Inspection or Contract
Any reliable car shipping company will provide you with a clear contract outlining terms, pickup/delivery windows, and pricing. They’ll also do a physical inspection of the car (or at least note any pre-existing damage via photos) before transport.
Scam companies often skip this step entirely. If they refuse to give you a written contract or provide unclear or overly vague terms, run the other way.
Choosing a Legitimate Car Shipping Company
To avoid getting scammed, always:
- Verify the company’s MC and USDOT numbers through FMCSA.
- Read real, verified customer reviews.
- Ask for a written contract and proof of insurance.
- Never pay the full amount upfront.
- Use secure payment methods.
- Ask questions; a legitimate company will have nothing to hide.
If you’re transporting a high-value or collectible vehicle, consider using enclosed car shipping services. Though more expensive than open transport, enclosed shipping offers maximum protection from the elements and road debris. Make sure your provider specializes in this service and can explain how your car will be secured.
The vehicle shipping industry is full of trustworthy and professional carriers but just like in any industry, scammers are out there. Being vigilant, asking the right questions, and doing a bit of research can go a long way in protecting yourself (and your car) from falling victim to fraud.
Whether you need standard vehicle transport or high-end enclosed car shipping, make sure the company you choose checks all the boxes licensed, insured, reviewed, and reputable. Don’t let a scam turn your move into a nightmare. Report this page