Avoiding Fraud in Car Shipping
How to Avoid Auto Transport Scams (And Spot Fake Drivers Before Pickup)
Introduction
Unfortunately, car shipping scams are a real issue in the auto transport industry. Whether it’s through dishonest brokers or fake drivers, scams can lead to lost money, damaged cars, or worse—no car at all. Here’s how to protect yourself and avoid falling victim to fraud.
Step-By- Step
How to Protect Yourself from Car Shipping Scams and Fake Drivers
The #1 Scams in the Industry
The most common scams involve lowball quotes that turn into inflated prices, or “phantom” drivers who never show up. Some companies might even take a deposit and then disappear entirely, leaving you without your car or your money.
1
The Most Common Car Shipping Scams
How fraudsters trick customers with lowball quotes and fake drivers.
2
How to Spot Fake Dispatchers
Red flags to watch for when booking your car transport.
3
Verifying Insurance and Credentials
Ensure you’re working with a legitimate, licensed company.
4
Confirming Driver Identity
Always verify the driver’s identity before handing over your vehicle.
5
Speedy Billy’s Anti-Fraud Measures
How we protect our customers and ensure trustworthy service.
How to Verify MC/DOT Numbers
The Motor Carrier (MC) and Department of Transportation (DOT) numbers are public records that verify a carrier’s legal status. You can check these numbers on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) website to ensure the company is legitimate.
Why You Must Confirm Driver Identity
Drivers should always present proper identification, including a driver’s license and proof of employment with the transport company. If a driver is unwilling to show ID, that’s a major red flag.
Speedy Billy’s Anti-Fraud Process
At Speedy Billy, we take fraud prevention seriously. Our team of professional drivers and dispatchers are fully vetted, and our vehicles and operations are fully insured. We’re committed to transparency, so you always know who’s handling your car and where it’s going.
Inspection Importance Before your car is loaded onto the transport truck, an inspection should be done. Make sure to document any pre-existing damage, including taking photos. This will protect you in case there’s a dispute later on regarding the car’s condition.
What Proper Insurance Documents Should Look Like
- Request Insurance Documents
- Check Coverage Limits
- Understand What’s Covered
- Avoid Vague Responses
Get a Quote
Don’t risk your vehicle with a shady transport company. Choose Speedy Billy, where your car’s safety and your peace of mind are our top priorities. Book with a trusted and verified brokerage today!