Car shipping scams are, unfortunately, a reality in the car shipping industry, and being aware of them can help you avoid becoming a victim. In this article, we’ll cover the top 9 car shipping scams and how to avoid them.
1. Fake Companies
One of the most common car shipping scams is setting up a fake car shipping company. Companies will offer incredibly low prices and then take your money without providing the services they promised. The best way to avoid this is to do research on the company you are considering hiring. Make sure they are properly licensed and insured and have a good reputation in the industry.
2. Unlicensed Drivers
Another common car shipping scam is to use unlicensed drivers to deliver your car. These drivers may not have the proper training or experience to safely transport your car, and may not be properly insured. Be sure to ask the shipping company you are considering hiring about their drivers and their licensing and insurance policies.
3. Uninsured Drivers
You should also make sure that the driver transporting your car is properly insured. If the driver is not insured, you could be liable for any damages that occur during the transport. Ask the company you’re hiring about its insurance policies and make sure you’re covered in the event of an accident.
4. Bait and Switch
This scam involves a car shipping company offering a low price and then changing the price after the transport has begun. To avoid this scam, make sure you get a written estimate before agreeing to the transport and that the company sticks to the agreed-upon price.
5. Unsafe Transport
Another car shipping scam is to use an unsafe transport vehicle to move your car. Make sure the company you’re hiring uses the right kind of vehicle for the job, and that the vehicle is properly maintained and in good condition.
6. Undelivered Items
This scam involves a car shipping company taking items out of your car and not delivering them to your destination. To avoid this, make sure you document all of the items in your car before you begin the transport and keep a list of the items that you want to be delivered.
7. Unspecified Delivery Times
Some car shipping companies will not provide a specific delivery time for your vehicle. This can leave you in the dark if something goes wrong and your car is delayed. Be sure to ask the company you’re hiring about their delivery times and make sure.
8. Low-balling Quotes
One of the most common car shipping scams is low-balling quotes. This is when a company quotes you a low price that sounds too good to be true. Once they have your vehicle, they’ll start adding on extra fees, making the total much higher than the original quote. To avoid this, make sure to get quotes from multiple companies and ask for a detailed breakdown of all fees.
9. The Deposit Scam
Finally, some car shipping companies require a deposit before they will ship your car. If you pay the deposit, they may never pick up your vehicle or may never deliver it. To avoid this, never pay a deposit until you’ve verified that the company is legitimate and has a good reputation.
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Conclusion
Car shipping scams are an unfortunately common occurrence and can have devastating consequences. It pays to be informed and prepared when shipping a car, as doing so will help you avoid being taken advantage of.
With a little due diligence, you can ensure that you don’t fall victim to any of the top 9 car shipping scams. So, be sure to arm yourself with the knowledge you need to protect yourself and your car, so you can get it to its final destination unscathed.
At eShip, we offer a wide range of car shipping services, including door-to-door shipping, open and enclosed transport, and international shipping. Our experienced team of professionals will handle every aspect of your car shipping needs, from pick up to delivery.
Whether you’re moving across the country or just around the corner, eShip has the perfect solution for you. Let us make sure that your car will be safely transported to its destination! Contact us today to get started!