Avoid auto transport scams: 9 red flags to watch when shipping your car

Shipping a car can be simple - but only if you avoid the traps used in auto transport scams. Fraudulent companies often hide behind low prices, fake reviews and aggressive payment demands, putting your vehicle and money at risk. Before booking transport, it’s crucial to verify the shipper’s legitimacy, compare real quotes and understand how the process works. Use the checklist below to protect yourself from the most common car shipping scams and choose a reliable, professional provider.

Key takeaways:

• confirm the company’s FMCSA registration & motor carrier number;
• compare quotes and beware of extremely low pricing;
• research authentic online reviews and check united states auto transport reviews using a trusted source;
• avoid shippers that demand large upfront deposits or ask for debit/prepaid cards;
• always request contracts & pricing details in writing;
• verify the company’s physical office, website and customer support;
• understand the shipping process using a provider that explains it clearly;
• review the bill of lading before signing at pickup & delivery;
• use secure payment methods & avoid suspicious “Google Checkout” or similar shipping & handling scams.

What are the most common car shipping scams to be aware of?

Shipping a vehicle across the USA is convenient, but the industry unfortunately attracts dishonest operators. Understanding car shipping scams protects your budget, personal information and vehicle.

Understanding bait-and-switch pricing in the auto transport industry

One of the most widespread transport scams is the bait-and-switch strategy. A company offers an extremely low price to attract customers, only to raise the cost later by claiming:

• fuel price changes;
• driver unavailability;
• “unexpected route fees”;
• seasonal demand.

When customers refuse, scammers often keep their deposit or pressure them with fabricated penalties. This is why it's important to get a quote from reputable providers with transparent pricing. Tools such as a free car shipping calculator help customers see realistic market rates.

How to identify fraudulent car shipping companies online:

• fake business addresses;
• generic or stolen photos;
• poorly written pages;
• no mention of licensing or regulations;
• no evidence of a real support team.

The dangers of fake reviews & testimonials from scammers

Scam profiles commonly display:

• repetitive, unnatural, overly positive reviews;
• identical wording across multiple platforms;
• new accounts with no history.

Cross-checking real nationwide auto transportation reviews and online reviews from verified customers helps filter out manipulation.

What red flags indicate a car shipping company might be a scam?

When evaluating an auto transport provider, certain warning signs can reveal whether a company is legitimate or operating as part of a car shipping scam. While some red flags are subtle, others clearly indicate that the shipper may not be trustworthy. The points below highlight the most common signals customers should watch for before booking transport.

Extremely low quotes that seem too good to be true:

• hidden costs;
• no guaranteed pickup;
• risk of price increases;
• fake listings intended to steal payments.

No FMCSA registration or motor carrier number

Every legitimate shipper must appear in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration database. Missing or invalid numbers strongly indicate common scams or unlicensed operations.

Demands for large upfront deposits or payment by debit card

Scammers often pressure customers to pay through cash apps, debit cards, direct bank transfers or prepaid cards. These payment methods offer little to no protection, making it extremely difficult — and in many cases impossible — to recover your money if the company turns out to be fraudulent.

How can I verify if a car transport company is reputable?

Before booking auto transport, it’s essential to confirm that a company is reputable. Verifying credentials, reviewing real customer feedback and checking the company’s physical presence can help you distinguish a trustworthy car transport company from a potential scam. The steps below outline how to ensure your provider is reliable and professional.

Checking the Better Business Bureau & FMCSA credentials

A trustworthy car transport company should be listed with the Better Business Bureau (BBB), showing a clear complaint history and reliable customer responses. It should also appear in FMCSA records, confirming proper licensing, insurance and compliance with federal safety standards. Missing or invalid credentials are a strong warning sign of potential car shipping scams.

Researching legitimate customer reviews across multiple platforms

You should compare customer ratings across multiple sources, including Google, the BBB, specialized transport marketplaces and verified review platforms. This perspective helps ensure that the feedback reflects genuine experiences rather than fake or manipulated reviews.

Checklist verify the company’s physical address & track record:

• a real office location;
• a consistent business history;
• a professional website;
• a documented shipping process.

What's the difference between car shipping brokers & carriers in scams?

Understanding the difference between brokers and carriers is crucial when avoiding auto transport scams. While both play important roles in shipping vehicles, scammers can exploit each differently. Recognizing the warning signs for brokers versus carriers helps you choose a legitimate provider and protect your vehicle and payment.

Broker scams typically involve:

• taking deposits without assigning a carrier;
• posting fake carrier availability;
• manipulating prices after contract signing.

Carrier scams often involve:

• insurance absence;
• unsafe trucks;
• fake pickup confirmations.
• Identifying legitimate brokers in the auto transport industry

Legitimate brokers are upfront about their role in the shipping process, provide written contracts for every transaction, hold valid FMCSA broker authority and maintain clear, transparent pricing without hidden fees or unexpected charges.

How do I protect myself when booking auto transport services?

Protecting yourself when booking auto transport services starts with careful planning and verification. By obtaining detailed quotes, understanding insurance coverage and shipping options, and using secure payment methods, you can minimize the risk of falling victim to car shipping scams and ensure your vehicle is transported safely and professionally.

Getting detailed quotes & contracts in writing:

• a written quote;
• pickup/delivery window;
• all predicted charges;
• cancellation terms.

Understanding insurance coverage & vehicle shipping options

Be clear about the type of service you need - whether you are shipping a car across the USA, arranging enclosed transport for a luxury or classic vehicle or using sedan transportation services. Always request proof of the carrier’s insurance to ensure your vehicle is fully protected during transit.

Using secure payment methods when shipping a car:

• credit cards;
• escrow platforms;
• secure invoicing systems.

What should I do if I've been victimized by a car shipping scam?

If you’ve fallen victim to a car shipping scam, acting quickly can help minimize losses and prevent further fraud. Knowing where and how to report the scam, as well as taking steps to recover your funds, is essential for protecting yourself and alerting others in the industry.

Reporting scams to the FMCSA & Better Business Bureau

You should promptly file complaints with the FMCSA, the BBB and your state’s consumer protection office. Reporting the scam not only increases the chances of resolving your own case but also helps prevent future shipping scams and warns other potential customers.

Steps to take for financial recovery after a shipping scam:

• Request a chargeback from your credit card provider;
• document all communication;
• report fraudulent activity to your bank;
• gather evidence such as emails, quotes & the failed bill of lading.