Shipping your vehicle across states or across the country should be a smooth and secure process—but unfortunately, the auto transport industry isn’t immune to scammers. From fake carriers to hidden charges and bait-and-switch tactics, the risks are real if you don’t know what to look for.
That’s why this step-by-step guide is dedicated to helping you spot auto transport scams to avoid, protect your money, and ship your car with confidence. We’ll walk you through the most common red flags, how scams work, and how to verify that you’re working with a legitimate company.
Watch Out for Extremely Low Quotes That Seem Too Good to Be True
If you receive a car shipping quote that’s dramatically lower than the others, take it as a red flag. Many scammers use this bait-and-switch tactic to lure in customers. After you pay a deposit, they either ghost you or suddenly demand more money to “finalize” the deal.
Legitimate transport companies base their prices on real factors—distance, fuel costs, carrier availability, vehicle type, and shipping method. A quote that undercuts the rest by \$200 or more likely means:
* The company has no real carrier lined up
* They’re operating under false promises to win your business
* They may switch the price last-minute with “unexpected fees”
Instead, use a trusted comparison platform like Car Shipping Instant Quotes to view multiple real-time quotes from vetted, insured carriers so you can make an informed choice without falling into the lowball trap.
Verify Licensing, Insurance, and Reviews
Reputable auto transporters are required by law to be licensed through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and must have a valid Motor Carrier (MC) number. Scammers either falsify this information or operate without proper authorization altogether.
Here’s how to verify legitimacy:
* Ask for their DOT and MC numbers and check them at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website
* Review customer feedback on third-party sites like Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google, and Transport Reviews
* Ensure they provide proof of cargo insurance and liability coverage before you commit
Real-world example: Jason booked with a company that claimed to be “fully insured” but had no MC number listed. After his car was damaged in transit, he found out the carrier had no valid insurance policy. The damage wasn’t covered—and the company vanished.
Avoid Paying Upfront in Full or Using Sketchy Payment Methods
Another common scam involves demanding full payment upfront—especially through non-secure methods like wire transfers, prepaid debit cards, or cryptocurrency. Reputable companies may request a modest deposit, but final payment is usually due upon delivery.
To protect yourself:
* Never pay the full amount before your car is picked up
* Use a credit card or payment platform that offers fraud protection
* Get a written agreement that outlines the total cost and payment terms
Scammers know that once they have your money via an untraceable method, it’s nearly impossible for you to recover it. Always keep a paper trail and verify where your funds are going.
Beware of Pushy Sales Tactics and Disappearing Acts
Aggressive sales reps who bombard you with calls, emails, or pressure to “book now before the rate increases” are often a sign of a shady operation. If a company seems more interested in securing your money than answering your questions, walk away.
Other suspicious signs include:
* Unavailable or vague customer service
* No physical address listed on their website
* Email addresses that use generic domains instead of a professional one
* Promises of exact pickup/delivery dates with no wiggle room
A legitimate company will take the time to explain the shipping process, offer reasonable estimates, and stay in contact throughout your move. That’s what Car Shipping Instant Quotes prioritizes—connecting you with real transporters who are clear, upfront, and ready to communicate.
Get a Written Contract and Read the Fine Print
Verbal agreements or vague email promises are not enough. A legitimate auto transport booking should always come with a formal written contract or confirmation that includes:
* Carrier details (company name, DOT/MC numbers)
* Pickup and drop-off locations
* Estimated time window for transport
* Price breakdown and deposit info
* Insurance coverage terms
* Cancellation and refund policy
Take a few minutes to read the entire document before signing. Watch for hidden fees, limited liability clauses, or vague terms around damage claims.
Real-life tip: Amanda was offered a “discount” if she agreed to skip the contract and just send payment. She passed. A week later, she saw online reviews about others being scammed the same way. Trust your gut and always demand documentation.
Final Thoughts: Use a Trusted Platform to Avoid Auto Transport Scams
Staying vigilant and informed is the best way to protect yourself from common auto transport scams to avoid. By watching for lowball quotes, verifying credentials, refusing sketchy payments, and reading contracts carefully, you’ll keep your vehicle and money safe.
For the easiest and most secure way to book car shipping, visit Car Shipping Instant Quotes. The platform only works with licensed, insured carriers and offers transparent quotes that you can trust—no pressure, no gimmicks, just smart car shipping.
Get your instant quote today and ship with peace of mind.
