How to Avoid Common Car Shipping Scams

Shipping a car should be simple — but unfortunately, the auto transport industry isn’t immune to scammers. Every year, unsuspecting customers fall victim to fraudulent car shipping companies that take money and disappear, never pick up the vehicle, or damage it without any resolution.

The good news? You can protect yourself. Once you know what to look for, avoiding car shipping scams becomes much easier.

Understanding Car Shipping Scams

What Do These Scams Look Like?

Car shipping scams typically involve dishonest companies (or individuals pretending to be companies) that:

• Take your deposit and vanish
  
• Quote a low price, then demand more money later
  
• Fail to show up on pickup day
  
• Transport your car without insurance, leaving you liable for damage
  

These scammers rely on urgency, confusion, and vague details to trap their victims.

Who Do They Target?

They often prey on:

• First-time shippers who don’t understand the process
  
• People looking for the lowest price possible
  
• Seniors or out-of-state college students moving vehicles
  
• Online car buyers and sellers
  

Most Common Car Shipping Scams

Fake Companies with No FMCSA License

All legitimate auto transporters must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Scammers often skip this, using fake websites and untraceable contact info to pose as real businesses.

Extremely Low Quotes

If a quote seems too good to be true — it probably is. Some scammers bait you with a low price, then increase it after securing your deposit, or they simply disappear with the payment.

Upfront Payment Demands

Legit carriers or brokers might require a small deposit, but full upfront payment before service is a major red flag. Never wire large sums or send cash to unknown companies.

Last-Minute Price Increases

This bait-and-switch tactic involves quoting a low price, then claiming “unexpected fees” just before pickup — forcing you to pay more or risk delaying your shipment.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

No Physical Address or Contact Info

Always check if the company has a real business address, phone number, and functioning website. Scam sites often use fake or vague contact information.

Vague Contracts

Scammers avoid putting terms in writing. If there’s no written agreement with clear terms (price, pickup window, insurance), walk away.

No Proof of Insurance

Never ship your vehicle with a company that can’t provide a valid Certificate of Insurance. If they dodge this request, it’s a scam waiting to happen.

How to Protect Yourself

Verify FMCSA Registration

Use the FMCSA’s official site to confirm the company’s DOT and MC numbers. If they’re not listed — or if the license is inactive — don’t use them.

Read Real Reviews

Check sites like Google, BBB, Trustpilot, and TransportReviews. Be cautious of companies with only glowing 5-star reviews — especially if they seem fake or repetitive.

Ask for a Contract in Writing

A legitimate company will give you a written contract detailing everything: pickup date, price, insurance coverage, cancellation policy, and more.

Avoid any business that insists on doing everything over the phone or email without formal paperwork.

Conclusion

Car shipping scams can cost you time, money, and a lot of stress. But with a little research and the right questions, you can protect yourself from shady operators. Always verify credentials, trust your instincts, and never rush into a deal just because the price looks good.

Safe shipping starts with smart choices — and now, you’re equipped to make them.