Shipping your car can be stressful, and unfortunately, the industry isn’t immune to scams. While most auto transport companies are reputable, scammers are still out there, ready to take advantage of unsuspecting customers. The biggest pitfall to avoid falling victim to these scams, failing to do your research. A little due diligence can go a long way in protecting your vehicle and your wallet, ensuring a smooth and safe car shipping experience.
Watch this video for a quick overview of what to look for when considering auto transport companies. Then, continue reading for more information on types of car shipping scams and how to select the right auto transport service provider.
Common Types of Car Shipping Scams
Knowing the common car shipping scams is the first step in protecting yourself. A few red flags to look for are unrealistically low quotes, large upfront deposits, pressure tactics, and ghost companies.
Too Good To Be True Quotes and Hidden Costs
Various factors affect the pricing of car shipments, such as type of transport, the travel distance, size of the vehicle, and even the time of year. While you can expect car shipping quotes to vary, unrealistically low rates may be a red flag. Some companies use very low-priced quotes to lure in customers and then present them with additional fees later.
Some “hidden costs” may include fuel surcharges, delivery fees, and administrative fees that can cover anything from paperwork processing to “handling” your vehicle. Learn more about car shipping rates and how you can save money.
A reputable car shipping company will provide a detailed quote that clearly outlines all costs involved. Be wary of any quote that seems too good to be true–it probably is! Instead, focus on companies that offer competitive pricing and are upfront about their fees. Ask questions, read the fine print, and don’t be afraid to walk away if anything seems suspicious.
Auto Shipping Group offers clear pricing. Our rates include what the carrier charges plus a minimal broker fee, ensuring you receive competitive pricing with exceptional service.
Brokers Impersonating Carriers: Know the Difference
When researching car shipping providers, you can learn many new terms. One of the first things to understand is the difference between carriers and brokers. These two entities play distinct roles, and knowing which you’re dealing with can significantly impact your experience.
Carriers: These are the companies that own and operate the trucks that transport your vehicle. They are responsible for the physical transportation of your car from point A to point B. Dealing directly with a carrier is an option, but it often requires extensive research to find one that services your specific route and has a good reputation.
Brokers: Brokers, like Auto Shipping Group, act as intermediaries between you and the carriers. They don’t own trucks themselves; instead, they work with a network of vetted carriers to find the best option for your specific needs. Think of them as travel agents for your car. They handle the logistics, negotiate prices, and ensure your vehicle is transported safely and efficiently.
At Auto Shipping Group, we thoroughly vet the carriers in our network to make sure they are licensed, insured, and have a proven track record of reliable service. This significantly reduces the risk of working with a less-than-reputable company. Let us handle the heavy lifting, so you can enjoy a smooth and worry-free experience!
Fake Auto Transport Companies
Now you know the difference between a broker and a carrier, but can you spot a “ghost” company? These are fake auto transport businesses designed solely to steal your money. These scammers operate by creating an illusion of legitimacy. They might offer incredibly low quotes, or even steal the branding of a real company to appear more trustworthy. Once they have your money, they vanish without a trace, leaving you with no recourse.
Luckily, they are fairly easy to spot with a bit of research. You can check their registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) as a first step. Then take a closer look at their website to verify that they have a physical office address and working phone numbers. Give them a call and ask questions about their company and services. If the company is hard to reach or doesn’t have FMCSA numbers handy, eliminate them from your list. Another resource is the Better Business Bureau. What kind of reputation do they have?
Working with a reputable broker like Auto Shipping Group can provide an extra layer of protection.
Upfront Payment Request
While some form of deposit might be acceptable, requiring full or substantial payment before your vehicle is assigned to a carrier is a major warning sign. Scammers and less-than-reputable companies often use large upfront payments as a way to take your money and disappear. Once they have it, they have little incentive to deliver your vehicle.
A small, reasonable deposit to secure your booking is acceptable, but never pay the full amount until your vehicle has arrived at its destination and you’ve had a chance to inspect it.
Tips at Vehicle Pickup
Auto Shipping Group’s Secure and Flexible Payment Options
We understand the importance of secure and transparent payment practices. No deposit is required until your vehicle is dispatched to a carrier and the remaining balance is due upon delivery.
To make the process as convenient as possible, we offer a variety of secure payment methods. Most drivers only accept cash upon delivery, but you can confirm if you can pay by money order, PayPal, or a cash app like Zelle. Customers can also pay by credit card at the time of booking. Learn more about our payment options.
Here are a few extra tips to keep in mind when it’s time for your vehicle to be picked up:
- Have your vehicle shipment information handy.
- Confirm the carrier is the same one assigned to pick up your vehicle.
- As an extra safeguard, take pictures of the truck, including license plates, for your records.
How Auto Shipping Group Protects You
Our dedication to stellar service has earned us accreditation from the Better Business Bureau and an A+ rating!
What truly sets us apart is our personalized approach to customer service. Unlike other companies, at Auto Shipping Group, you’ll have a single point of contact throughout the entire shipping process. From the initial quote and booking to pickup and delivery, your dedicated agent will be there to answer your questions, provide updates, and guide you every step of the way.
While we’re confident in our offerings, we also think it’s wise to be informed. Here are some tactics to watch out for when researching any car shipping company.
Reliable and Affordable Car Shipping
When you’re ready to ship your vehicle, consider Auto Shipping Group. With over 30 years of experience, Auto Shipping Group is a top choice for both open and enclosed shipping services. Our online process makes it easy to get a quote and book affordable nationwide vehicle shipping. Curious about the process? Learn more about how vehicle shipping works. If you have questions or need assistance, our friendly team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Get started with a free quote or dial (888) 588-1269 to speak with an Auto Shipping Group team member.