The auto transport industry, like many service industries, has its share of bad actors. Scams range from low-ball quotes that balloon at pickup to companies that take deposits and disappear entirely. Knowing the warning signs protects your money and your vehicle. This guide covers the most common auto transport scams and exactly how to avoid them.
The 6 Most Common Auto Transport Scams
1. The Bait-and-Switch Quote: A company quotes you an artificially low price to win your business, then dramatically increases the price at pickup with "market adjustment," "fuel surcharge," or other bogus fees. How to avoid: Get the final, all-inclusive price in writing before handing over your keys.
2. The Deposit Disappearance: A company collects a deposit, assigns you to a "waitlist," and either never finds a carrier or simply disappears. This is more common with unlicensed brokers. How to avoid: Verify the company's FMCSA MC number at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov before paying any deposit.
3. The Fake Review Company: Companies with suspiciously uniform 5-star reviews that were posted in a short period are often fake. How to avoid: Check Google, BBB, and Transport Reviews for reviews spread over time, including negative ones and how the company responded.
4. Full Upfront Payment: Legitimate auto transport companies charge a deposit ($100–$200) at booking with the remainder paid at delivery. A company demanding full payment upfront via wire transfer is a major red flag. How to avoid: Never pay in full before your vehicle is picked up.
5. Missing Insurance: Some companies claim they're insured but can't provide documentation. If a claim occurs, you discover the coverage was inadequate or nonexistent. How to avoid: Ask for a Certificate of Insurance before booking. A legitimate carrier will provide one instantly.
6. Unlicensed Broker: Anyone brokering auto transport in the US must be licensed by the FMCSA as a Property Broker. Unlicensed brokers have no regulatory oversight and no accountability. How to avoid: Verify the MC number on the FMCSA website.
How to Verify a Legitimate Auto Transport Company
- Check FMCSA licensing at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov (search by company name or MC number)
- Verify insurance by requesting a Certificate of Insurance — call the insurance company directly to confirm it's active
- Read reviews on multiple platforms: Google, BBB, Trustpilot, TransportReviews.com
- Look for the company's physical address — PO boxes only are a red flag
- Call the company's phone number and confirm it's a real business with professional staff