Most people only ship a car once or twice in their lifetime, which makes car shipping an easy target for bad actors. While the majority of auto transport providers are legitimate, scams still exist — usually targeting customers who are unfamiliar with how the process works.
The good news? A little education goes a long way.
Below are the most common red flags to watch for when choosing a car shipping company, along with simple steps you can take to protect yourself and ensure a smooth vehicle delivery experience.
Not All Auto Transport Companies Are Scams
It’s important to say this upfront: most vehicle transport companies operate honestly and professionally. Scams are the exception — not the rule.
However, because shipping involves deposits, timelines, and long-distance logistics, it’s important to know what to look for before booking a car carrier. The tips below are designed to help you make an informed decision, not scare you away from shipping your vehicle.
Red Flag #1: Quotes That Seem Too Good to Be True
One of the most common auto transport scams starts with an unrealistically low quote.
Scammers know that price is often the first thing people compare, so they’ll offer a number far below what reputable car shipping companies can realistically provide. Once you’re locked in, the price often increases — or worse, the company disappears entirely.
A trustworthy auto transport provider will explain what affects pricing and set realistic expectations from the beginning.
Red Flag #2: Demanding Full Payment Up Front
Be cautious of any car shipping company that demands full payment before your vehicle is picked up.
While deposits and partial payments are common in the industry, pressure to pay everything upfront — especially through wire transfers, gift cards, or peer-to-peer payment apps — is a major warning sign.
Reputable companies prioritize transparency and will clearly explain when and how payment is collected during the vehicle transport process.
Red Flag #3: No Verifiable Company Information
A legitimate auto transport provider should be easy to verify.
Red flags include:
- No physical address listed
- No working phone number
- A website with minimal information
- No clear explanation of how the car carrier process works
If a company is difficult to contact or avoids answering basic questions, that’s usually a sign to keep looking.
Red Flag #4: Vague or Missing Written Agreements
Professional car shipping companies provide written documentation that outlines the details of your shipment.
This typically includes:
- Pickup and delivery windows
- Transport type
- Cancellation policies
- Basic terms and conditions
If a provider refuses to put details in writing or gives unclear answers about your vehicle delivery, that’s a sign they may not operate transparently. A lack of transparency can lead to serious losses. There have been real-world cases where vehicles have disappeared during transport, including high-value supercars that were handed off to unverified carriers and never delivered.
It’s critical to work with a car shipping company that provides clear documentation, consistent communication, and verifiable credentials throughout the vehicle transport process.
Red Flag #5: Suspicious Reviews or No Reviews at All
Reviews can be helpful — but only if they’re legitimate.
Watch out for:
- Dozens of five-star reviews posted within days of each other
- Reviews that sound overly generic
- No third-party reviews anywhere online
A reputable car shipping company will have a mix of feedback and a consistent online presence that reflects real customer experiences.
Red Flag #6: Pressure Tactics and Poor Communication
High-pressure sales tactics don’t belong in professional auto transport.
Warning signs include:
- “Book right now or lose your spot”
- Frequent changes to pricing or details
- Dodging direct questions about timelines or process
Clear, calm communication is a hallmark of reliable vehicle transport services.
How to Book Auto Transport Safely
Instead of focusing only on red flags, it’s just as important to know what good looks like.
A trustworthy car shipping company will:
- Explain the transport process clearly
- Offer realistic timelines
- Communicate consistently
- Provide written confirmation
- Set expectations about pickup, transit, and vehicle delivery
Professionalism, transparency, and responsiveness matter far more than finding the absolute lowest price.
Why Education Matters More Than Price
The cheapest option isn’t always the safest — especially when it comes to shipping your vehicle.
Reliable auto transport reduces stress, prevents delays, and ensures your car arrives as expected. Taking the time to understand how the process works helps you avoid scams and choose a car carrier that puts your vehicle first.
Book With Confidence
Shipping a car doesn’t have to be complicated or risky. When you understand the red flags and know what to expect from a reputable car shipping company, you’re already ahead of most customers.
If you have questions or want a transparent quote from a trusted vehicle transport provider, Lepke Auto Transport is here to help. Our team focuses on clear communication, realistic expectations, and safe vehicle delivery from start to finish. Fill out our booking form and get a quote today.