Auto transport scams are getting more sophisticated, but the red flags are still easy to spot when you know what to look for. At USA Auto Movers, we hear the stories: bait-and-switch quotes, “too good to be true” deposits, fake carrier identities, and unlicensed brokers vanishing after taking a fee. Here’s what’s happening—and how to stay safe.
The Most Common Scams Right Now
- Bait-and-switch pricing: You’re quoted a rock-bottom rate, then pressured to pay hundreds more once the car is already scheduled.
- Texts from multiple unknown numbers: Your information is being shared among multiple brokers
- Deposit traps: A scammer demands a large, non-refundable deposit before finding a carrier—then disappears or delays.
- Identity spoofing: Fraudsters copy a real company’s DOT/MC numbers and pretend to be them over phone, email, or text.
- “Guaranteed date” gimmicks: No carrier can guarantee exact pickup/delivery windows; scammers use this promise to close the deal.
- Cash-only on delivery: A demand for untraceable payment (often after changes you didn’t approve) is a warning sign.
- VIN/photo phishing: Shady actors ask for excessive documents or VIN photos up front, then harvest your data.
10 Ways to Protect Yourself
- Verify licensing. Check the company’s DOT/MC numbers on the FMCSA website and confirm the company name, phone, and address match.
- Demand written terms. Make sure the quote includes pickup/delivery windows, insurance details, fees, and cancellation policy.
- Be skeptical of the lowest bid. Realistic quotes reflect driver availability, route, seasonality, and vehicle type.
- Use traceable payments. Avoid large cash deposits and sketchy payment apps.
- Ask about insurance—twice. Confirm the carrier’s active cargo coverage and ask for proof before dispatch.
- Read reviews critically. Look for recent, specific experiences across multiple platforms—not just star counts.
- Confirm the carrier before pickup. You should receive the carrier’s name, phone, and truck or plate information prior to arrival.
- Do a proper inspection. Document pre-pickup and post-delivery condition with date-stamped photos and the Bill of Lading.
- Avoid pressure tactics. “Book now or lose your spot” is a classic manipulation.
- Keep communication in one thread. Scammers switch numbers or emails to avoid accountability.
How USA Auto Movers Keeps You Safe
- Licensed and transparent: We provide our credentials up front and confirm the dispatched carrier’s verified details before pickup.
- Real quotes, real timelines: We price honestly based on route, season, and availability—no surprise upcharges.
- Insurance confirmation: We vet carriers for active cargo coverage and share documentation upon request.
- Proactive updates: You’ll know who’s moving your vehicle, where it is, and what comes next.
- Customer-first support: If something changes, we resolve it with clear options before you pay another dollar.
Quick Red-Flag Checklist
If you hear any of these, pause and verify: “Guaranteed exact date,” “We need a big deposit right now,” “Cash only,” “We’ll send the carrier name after pickup,” or “We’ll match any price, no problem.”
Ready to ship your vehicle the safe way? Contact USA Auto Movers and let our vetted network and transparent process protect your car—and your wallet.