Auto-Transport / Car-Shipping Deposit Scam
A car-shipping 'broker' offers a low quote, takes a deposit, and either never ships your vehicle or holds it for inflated fees.
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What this scam is
When you need to ship a vehicle, a broker gives a suspiciously low quote to win the job, then requires a deposit; afterward, the price rises, the carrier never appears, or (as with rogue movers) your vehicle is held for higher-than-quoted fees. Some 'brokers' are entirely fake and vanish with the deposit. Verifying the broker/carrier's licensing (FMCSA), avoiding large upfront deposits, and getting binding quotes protect you.
What it usually looks like
- A car-shipping quote far below competitors.
- A required deposit to book.
- Price increases or no-show carriers after payment.
- An unverifiable broker.
Common warning signs
- Low-ball quotes and required deposits.
- Wire/large upfront payments.
- Price jumps after booking.
- No verifiable FMCSA licensing.
Example wording scammers use
“Ship your car for $499 — just send the deposit to lock in your slot.”
“(After deposit) 'The carrier needs an extra $600 before pickup.'”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Deposits for shipping that won't happen as quoted.
- Inflated fees after booking.
- Wire/upfront payments.
What to do
- Verify broker/carrier licensing on the FMCSA site before booking.
- Avoid large upfront deposits; get binding written quotes.
- Be wary of low-ball prices.
- Read reviews and confirm the carrier.
What to do if you already responded
- Contact your bank about the deposit; file an FMCSA complaint.
- Dispute card charges if applicable.
- Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.