Common Car Shipping Scams to Avoid: Protect Yourself from Courier & Broker Fraud

Shipping your vehicle can be a convenient and reliable way to move across the country—but it’s also a prime target for scammers. Unfortunately, the car shipping industry is not immune to fraud. Whether you’re a first-time shipper or a seasoned dealership, it’s critical to understand the common scams in car transportation, learn the warning signs, and know how to protect yourself.

In this post, we’ll break down the most common car shipping scams, how to spot them, and what to do if you’ve fallen victim to one.

🚩 Common Car Shipping Scams: What You Need to Know

Here are the most frequently reported types of scams in the auto transport industry:

1. Fake Car Shipping Companies (Courier Fraud)

These fraudsters create professional-looking websites, pose as legitimate carriers, and offer unrealistically low quotes. Once you pay a deposit (often via wire transfer or cash app), they disappear with your money.

⚠️Warning Signs:

  • No verifiable DOT or MC number

  • No physical business address

  • Pressure to pay upfront via Zelle, Cash App, or wire transfer

  • No contract or written agreement

BEAM ME UP AUTO TRANSPORT WILL NEVER ASK FOR A DEPOSIT BEFORE SECURING A TRUCKING COMPANY AND COMMUNICATING PICK-UP AND DELIVERY DETAILS WITH YOU. THE ONLY PERSON WHO WILL DISCUSS YOUR CAR TRANSPORTATION LOGISTICS IS JOSHUA KONSKER (561) 212-7774 OR JOSH@BEAMAUTOTRANSPORT.COM

2. Bait-and-Switch Pricing

You’re quoted a low price to secure your business—but after signing the contract, the price suddenly increases due to “unexpected issues” or “driver availability.”

⚠️Warning Signs:

  • Vague contract language

  • Lowball quotes much lower than other companies

  • Requests for additional fees right before pickup

3. Double Booking or Ghost Drivers

Some rogue brokers will “sell” your shipment to multiple carriers—or no real carrier at all—causing confusion, delays, or even leading to vehicle theft.

⚠️Warning Signs:

  • No carrier assignment for days after booking

  • Conflicting pickup calls from different drivers

  • No insurance verification

🔍 Understanding Courier Fraud vs. Broker Fraud

🚚 Courier (Carrier) Fraud

This involves scammers pretending to be actual carriers. They may falsify credentials, logos, and DOT numbers to make it seem like they’re licensed.

  • Risk: Your vehicle may never be picked up—or worse—may be stolen.

  • Tip: Verify the carrier’s DOT number on the FMCSA website.

📞 Broker Fraud

Broker scams occur when the company facilitating the shipment is dishonest or deceptive.

  • Risk: You could be overcharged, double-booked, or left without a carrier.

  • Tip: Only work with FMCSA-licensed brokers and check online reviews, BBB ratings, and Google ratings before booking.

🛑 What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed

Being scammed can be a stressful and costly experience. Here’s how to take action:

1. Document Everything

Keep all emails, text messages, contracts, payment receipts, and communication records.

2. Report the Scam

  • File a complaint with the FMCSA at 1-888-DOT-SAFT or their complaint form.

  • Report to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at complaint.ic3.gov.

  • Leave a review for the shipping website the scammer used and file a complaint as well.

3. Contact Your Bank or Payment Provider

If you paid via card, Zelle, or another method, report the fraudulent transaction immediately. You may be able to dispute the charge or reverse the payment.

4. Work with a Reputable Auto Transport Broker

Going forward, always choose a broker with a proven track record, verifiable licensing, and transparent pricing.

✅ How to Choose a Trustworthy Car Transport Company

Here are a few tips to help you avoid scams:

  • Always verify DOT and MC numbers.

  • Never pay upfront via wire transfer or peer-to-peer apps.

  • Check online reviews and ratings on sites like BBB, Google, Yelp and TransportReviews.

  • Ask for a written contract that outlines all fees, timelines, and cancellation policies.

🔒 Stay Safe. Ship Smart.

At Beam Me Up Auto Transport, we believe that transparency and trust are the foundation of every successful car transport experience. We are a licensed and bonded auto transport broker, and we work only with vetted, insured carriers to ensure your vehicle arrives safely, on time, and without hassle.

We have a proven track record of honesty and efficency which is why scammers are using our name and hard-earned reputation to take advantage of you! Don’t get scammed—get protected. If you have any questions about your car shipping quote or need help verifying a carrier, we’re here to help.

📞 Ready to Ship Your Car Safely?

👉 Request a Free, No-Obligation Quote Today!

Alicia Konsker