Shipping a vehicle can be a convenient and time-saving way to relocate a car from across town or across the country. Unfortunately, the vehicle shipping industry, like many others, is also home to con artists and scam artists. From bait-and-switch pricing to fraudulent carriers, vehicle shipping scams can leave customers confused, empty their wallets, and cause a missing vehicle.
But don’t worry! In most cases, car shipping scams can be avoided simply by doing some research and learning how to spot the red flags. We will outline how you can protect yourself and your vehicle.
Why Car Shipping Scams Exist
Since many customers only ship a vehicle once or twice throughout their lifetime, they have no prior knowledge of what to expect. This is exactly what scammers take advantage of; they seek to dupe those looking for the cheapest price or those with an immediate transportation need.
Because shipping a car is inherently stressful, scammers rely on time pressures, misleading pricing and fabricated credentials to secure the business. Know the most prevalent scams, and you’ll be that much closer to keeping yourself out of one.
Beware of Prices That Seem Too Good to be True
Perhaps the most frequent of car shipping scams begins with a too-good-to-be-true quote. A company may provide an unusually low price quote to catch your attention. Once you commit, the price will rise with tacked-on fees or a change of market conditions excuse. If one price appears significantly lower than all others, you should ask how such a price is possible.
All legitimate car shipping companies can provide fair pricing due to a wide range of variables including:
- Distance
- Vehicle weight and size
- Route availability
- Seasonal demand
- Delivery time frames
We all want to keep costs down but, what if the cheapest service is the least secure?
Check Out the Business
Once you have picked a vehicle transportation service provider, do your due diligence and check the company out thoroughly before making arrangements.
A legitimate transportation service provider should have clear answers to “who” they are and “how” they work.
You want to see:
- A professional website
- Established business history
- Customer reviews
- Clear contact information
- Proof of insurance coverage
- DOT and MC numbers when applicable
If it’s difficult to get ahold of a company and they can’t answer your simplest questions, that’s likely a sign of a red flag.
Be Wary of Large Upfront Payments
Reliable transportation companies typically have structured payment guidelines. Scammers are typically looking for significant deposits, usually in unconventional payment methods like money transfers, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or apps with little recourse for the buyer.
Before making any payment:
- Understand the payment schedule
- Request written documentation
- Review terms and conditions
- Check their refund policy
A trustworthy vendor should tell you their payment terms.
Get Everything in Writing
Verbal contracts for service are unreliable.
Make certain to secure a written document stating the following, prior to scheduling transportation:
- Pickup/Delivery expectations
- Pricing details
- Any additional fees
- Insurance information
- Cancellation policies
- Terms of service
Before signing the agreement, review the terms and conditions thoroughly.
Clear paperwork provides protection to both customer and transportation company.
Look Out for Poor Communication
Communication is usually one of the first signs that something might be wrong.
A company that is bad might be one who:
- Takes days to respond
- Avoids direct questions
- Changes contact information frequently
- Provides inconsistent answers
- Refuses to provide updates
A reputable transportation provider recognizes that customers wish to be aware of what is happening at all stages of shipment and prioritizes communication.
Read Reviews Closely
The Internet can be an incredible source of information when it comes to reviews, however, they must be approached intelligently.
Don’t rely on a single rating. Look for consistent messages, and consider reviews that have:
- Delivery reliability
- Customer service
- Pricing transparency
- Communication
- Claims handling
Don’t brush aside recurring complaints about undisclosed fees or bad communication.
Educate Yourself on the Vehicle Shipping Process
Several fraudulent services continue to get away with it because their customers don’t know what’s supposed to happen during transit. Before you book with a transport company, make sure to ask them the following questions:
- How will my car be transported?
- What type of insurance coverage is included?
- What happens if delays occur?
- How are pickup and delivery dates scheduled?
- Who should I call to get updates?
With more knowledge at your disposal you can more easily find companies who are not likely professional.
Choose Reliability, Not Promises
Moving a car from A to B isn’t as simple as one might think; it requires a level of expertise in order to execute correctly.
The right transportation partner should provide:
- Clear communication
- Transparent pricing
- Reliable scheduling
- Professional drivers
- Proven experience
When it comes to choosing a company to ship your car, a company dedicated to service and reliability is a much safer bet than one committed to the best price.
The Bottom Line
While car shipping fraud can add a considerable expense, most scams are easily avoidable. By taking the time to thoroughly investigate your shipping company, check their accreditation, confirm contract terms and ask the right questions, you can take proactive measures to secure your vehicle and your money.
When entrusting your vehicle to another party for shipment, there is as much value in honesty and reliability as there is in the final price.
Ship With Confidence Through ATC Driveaway
Here at ATC Driveaway, we know that transporting a vehicle should be an easy, professional, and a stress-free experience. Our dedicated and professional team is committed to offering dependable, safe, nationwide vehicle transportation. Through clear communication, fair prices and customer satisfaction we assure your needs are met.
From a single vehicle to entire fleet relocation we will gladly assist with every aspect of your move.
Reach out to secure the transportation partner that’s right for you.
Contact ATC Driveaway today to learn more about our nationwide vehicle transportation and driveaway services.
