Protect Yourself from Car Shipping Scams

Car shipping scams are becoming more prevalent, making it crucial for consumers to stay informed and vigilant. At OverFracht, we believe that shipping your car should be a seamless and stress-free experience. However, recognizing and avoiding auto transport scams is essential to protect your investment and ensure your vehicle reaches its destination safely.

Common Car Shipping Scams

Bait and Switch

One of the most common car shipping scams is the bait and switch. This occurs when an auto transport company lures customers with an attractively low quote, only to increase the price later after the customer is committed.

How to avoid:

Be wary of quotes that are significantly lower than the industry standard.
Avoid companies that pressure you into making a quick decision.
Thoroughly review the terms and conditions to fully understand all the details before committing to any agreement.

Fake Auto Transport Companies

Fraudulent companies often create professional-looking websites and social media profiles to pose as legitimate auto transporters.

How to avoid:

Verify the company’s FMCSA and DOT registration numbers.
Check the company’s presence on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website.
Confirm their contact details and business address.

Non-Existent Services

Some scammers demand full payment upfront and then disappear, leaving customers without a service or a refund.

How to avoid:

Never pay the full amount upfront; a small deposit is usually sufficient.
Use secure payment methods that offer buyer protection.
Insist on a written contract outlining the terms of service.

How to Spot Auto Transport Scams

Unrealistically Low Quotes

If an offer looks unrealistically low, chances are it's not as good as it seems. Scammers often use low prices to entice unsuspecting customers.

Lack of Proper Licensing

Legitimate auto transport companies should have a valid DOT number and Motor Carrier (MC) license.

High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Companies that rush you into making a decision should be approached with caution. Reputable auto transport companies provide adequate time to review quotes and contracts.

Poor Online Reviews

Look for patterns of complaints related to hidden fees, delays, or lost vehicles when checking online reviews.

How to Check Car Shippers

Before committing to a transport company, take the following steps:

1. Research the Company

Look up their DOT and MC numbers on the FMCSA website.
Check their BBB profile for complaints and resolutions.

2. Request References

Ask the company for references from previous customers.
Contact past clients to verify their experiences.

3. Examine Insurance Coverage

Ensure the company provides adequate insurance for your vehicle.
Request a copy of their insurance certificate.

4. Read the Contract Carefully

Look for hidden fees and vague terms.
Make sure the pickup and delivery dates are clearly stated.

Car Moving Scam Risks to Watch Out For

Unregistered Companies

Legitimate auto transport companies must comply with FMCSA regulations. An unregistered business is a red flag.

Imposter Transporters

Scammers may pose as reputable companies using similar branding and names. Always verify their authenticity.

Untraceable Payment Methods

Avoid companies that request payment via untraceable methods such as wire transfers or gift cards.

How to Handle a Car Shipping Scam If You Fall Victim

If you suspect that you have fallen victim to an auto transport scam, take the following actions:

1. Report the Scam

Submit a grievance to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Report the incident to the FMCSA and BBB.

2. Contact Your Payment Provider

If you used a credit card, contact your provider to dispute the charge.

3. Warn Others

Share your experience online to help prevent others from falling victim to the same scam.

Choosing a Reliable Auto Transport Company

To avoid dealing with car transport scams, it is important to work with good car shipping companies that are reputable and transparent. Here are some tips to ensure you choose the right company:

Check their track record and experience.
Ensure they offer detailed contracts and fair pricing.
Confirm they have a responsive customer support team.

Red Flags When Selecting an Auto Transport Company

When researching auto transport companies to avoid, be on the lookout for these red flags:

Companies that lack a professional website or have inconsistent contact information.
Poor communication or unresponsive customer service.
Requests for wire transfers or non-secure payment methods.
A lack of online presence or negative customer feedback.

Tips to Ensure a Smooth Auto Transport Experience

Plan Ahead: Schedule your car shipment well in advance to avoid last-minute decisions.
Get Multiple Quotes: Compare quotes from different companies to find the best balance of price and service.
Understand the Process: Familiarize yourself with how auto transport works, including timelines and insurance coverage.
Stay in Touch: Maintain communication with the transport company throughout the process.
Inspect Your Vehicle: Document the condition of your car before and after transport to avoid disputes.

By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can safely transport your vehicle without falling victim to fraudulent schemes. OverFracht is committed to providing reliable and trustworthy auto transport services across America, ensuring your vehicle is in good hands from start to finish.

How to avoid common car shipping scams and frauds

Instant Car Shipping Quote

Shipping your car with OverFracht is a piece of cake.