How to Avoid Getting Scammed When Hiring a State-to-State Car Shipping Company

Shipping your car from one state to another can save time, mileage, and stress—but it also comes with risks if you’re not careful. With the rise of online auto transport brokers and carriers, scam tactics are becoming more common, especially targeting those unfamiliar with the process.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to spot and avoid scams when hiring a car shipping company, so you can protect your vehicle and your wallet with confidence.

Key Highlights – What You’ll Learn:

• How to verify if a car shipping company is legit, including checking FMCSA registration and insurance
  
• The biggest red flags to watch out for, like low-ball quotes and full upfront payments
  
• Smart steps to protect yourself, including reviewing contracts, understanding broker vs. carrier roles, and documenting your vehicle

Why Car Shipping Scams Are on the Rise

Increased demand for vehicle relocation—driven by online car sales, job relocations, and snowbird migrations—has led to an influx of new transport companies. While many are legitimate, others take advantage of the unregulated aspects of the industry, posing as brokers or carriers with fake promises, low-ball quotes, and sketchy payment schemes.

Scams range from non-existent carriers and fake brokers to hidden fees, bait-and-switch pricing, or, in extreme cases, vehicles being held for ransom. That’s why due diligence is not just smart—it’s essential.

Step-by-Step Guide to Avoid Getting Scammed

1. Research the Company’s Reputation Thoroughly

Start your search by digging into a company’s background. A legitimate state-to-state car shipping company will have:

• A functioning website with clear contact information
  
• A physical business address
  
• Verified customer reviews on platforms like:
  
  • VehicleTransportReviews.com
    
  • Google Reviews
    
  • Trustpilot
    
  • Better Business Bureau (BBB)
    
• Consistent presence on social media platforms

Pro Tip: Look for detailed reviews that mention pickup windows, communication quality, and final delivery condition. Generic 5-star ratings without substance could be fake.

“Reputation is your best indicator of trustworthiness. If a company’s name only leads to complaints and forums about being scammed—walk away.”

Check for FMCSA Registration and Insurance

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires all car transport companies operating across state lines to have a valid Motor Carrier (MC) number and DOT registration.

To verify:

• Go to the official FMCSA site: https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov
  
• Enter the company’s MC or DOT number
  
• Check that they are authorized for interstate transport, and review their safety record and complaint history
  

Also request a Certificate of Insurance showing:

• Cargo coverage (minimum $100,000 recommended)
  
• Liability insurance (typically $1 million+)

“If they won’t share their license or insurance, they’re either hiding something—or not licensed at all.”

Get Multiple Quotes—But Beware of the Lowest

It’s smart to shop around, but don’t be lured by the lowest bid. Scammers often use too-good-to-be-true pricing to lure customers and later:

• Disappear after collecting a deposit
  
• Raise the price dramatically once the car is loaded
  
• Never show up at all

Instead, get quotes from 3 to 5 licensed companies. A fair price will reflect:

• Distance and route
  
• Type of vehicle
  
• Open vs enclosed shipping
  
• Seasonal demand

When you’re seriously considering hiring a state to state car shipping company, make sure their quote aligns with market rates—and that they’re transparent about all fees from the start.

“If one quote is $500 cheaper than the rest, it’s not a deal—it’s a red flag.”

Know the Difference Between Brokers and Carriers

Understanding industry roles can help you ask the right questions.

• Brokers connect you with carriers but don’t move vehicles themselves
  
• Carriers own the trucks and perform the transport
  

Many reputable brokers operate legally and efficiently—but shady brokers can:

• Sell your job to unreliable or uninsured carriers
  
• Disappear after booking
  
• Provide no updates or accountability

Ask:

• “Are you a broker or carrier?”
  
• “Will you provide the name and contact info of the carrier in advance?”

“A good broker is transparent, communicative, and works with vetted, insured carriers.”

Be Cautious With Upfront Payments

Reputable vehicle shipping companies typically request:

• A small deposit (10–20%) upfront
  
• The remaining balance upon delivery (via cash, cashier’s check, or card)

Avoid:

• Full upfront payments
  
• Requests for wire transfers, Venmo, or Zelle
  
• “Reservation fees” with no contract or invoice

“If they demand the full amount upfront and won’t offer a written contract, that’s a scam 101.”

Review the Shipping Agreement Carefully

Before agreeing to anything, ask for the full contract or shipping agreement. It should clearly state:

• Pickup and delivery dates or windows
  
• Total price, including all fees
  
• Insurance and damage coverage
  
• Cancellation and refund policy
  
• The company’s responsibilities vs. your own

Scan for hidden clauses that allow sudden price hikes or deny liability for damage.

“If the paperwork is vague or riddled with fine print, it’s designed to protect them—not you.”

Document the Condition of Your Car Before Shipping

When handing your vehicle over, insist on a Bill of Lading (BOL)—a legal document that serves as both a receipt and inspection record.

Before pick-up:

• Wash the car so damage is visible
  
• Take high-resolution photos from all angles
  
• Record the mileage
  
• Note existing scratches, dents, or wear

Upon delivery, compare the car to the inspection sheet and photos before signing.

“Having a photo record is your best defense in case of damage disputes.”

Watch Out for High-Pressure Tactics and Scare Tactics

Scammers will often rush you into making a decision with phrases like:

• “Spots are filling up fast!”
  
• “This price is only good for today!”
  
• “We need your deposit now to guarantee pickup!”

A trustworthy company will give you time to:

• Ask questions
  
• Review documentation
  
• Compare with competitors

“You’re shipping a car across state lines—not buying concert tickets. Take your time.”

Bonus Tips for a Safe Shipping Experience

Use an Auto Transport Marketplace

Platforms like Central Dispatch and Super Dispatch offer verified carriers with customer ratings. They act as a buffer between you and sketchy operators.

Ask for References

Reputable companies will be glad to connect you with recent customers or show verified testimonials.

Choose Enclosed Transport for High-Value Vehicles

If you’re shipping a luxury or classic car, the extra cost of enclosed auto shipping adds peace of mind and added security.

Ship During Off-Peak Seasons

Summer and winter are peak periods. Consider spring or fall to get better rates and more reliable availability.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a state-to-state car shipping company can be a smooth, stress-free process—if you choose wisely. By verifying licensing, avoiding shady payment demands, and reading contracts carefully, you’ll drastically reduce your risk of getting scammed.

Your car is one of your most valuable assets. Take the same care choosing a transport company as you would choosing a mover, mechanic, or home contractor. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and walk away.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ How much does it cost to ship a car across states?

Prices vary based on distance, vehicle type, and transport method. Average costs range from $600 to $1,200 for open transport.

❓ Is it better to use a broker or a carrier?

Both can be good options. Brokers offer more carrier flexibility, while carriers offer direct communication. Just ensure either is FMCSA-registered.

❓ Can I put items in the car while it’s being shipped?

Most companies discourage this due to insurance restrictions. Some allow up to 100 lbs of personal items in the trunk—but always ask first.