Introduction
Car shipping scams 2025 are on the rise as more Americans buy and move vehicles online, across states, or even cross-country. While auto transport is a convenient and safe option when done right, many unsuspecting customers fall victim to shady practices every year—losing money, time, and even their cars.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top red flags to watch for, how these scams work, and most importantly, how to protect yourself with trusted carriers like MBM Logistics.
Why Car Shipping Scams Are Still Happening in 2025
Despite tighter regulations and more consumer awareness, car shipping scams 2025 still thrive due to:
- A surge in online car purchases and cross-state relocations
- An unregulated flood of fake shipping websites
- Prepaid deposits requested via CashApp, Zelle, or crypto
- Lack of transparency from low-cost “brokers”
1. 🚩 Unusually Low Prices
Scam operators often lure customers with deals that seem too good to be true. If the price is drastically lower than the market average, it’s likely a bait-and-switch tactic.
What to do instead:
Always compare quotes from reputable companies. Real quotes should fall within a similar price range (e.g., $900–$1,400 for coast-to-coast shipping of a sedan).
2. 🚩 No MC or USDOT Number
All legitimate brokers and carriers must be registered with the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration). Scammers often don’t display this info or use fake numbers.
✅ Tip: You can verify their license status at https://li-public.fmcsa.dot.gov.
3. 🚩 Pressure to Pay Upfront with Untraceable Methods
If you’re being told to pay through CashApp, Venmo, Zelle, or Bitcoin, it’s a major red flag. These platforms offer little protection if you get scammed.
Safe payment methods:
Use credit cards or bank transfers only. MBM Logistics offers secure invoicing systems and never pressures for instant full payments.
4. 🚩 No Physical Address or Customer Support
Scam sites often list vague addresses (or none at all) and offer only a contact form or generic email. You won’t find a phone number—or if you do, it routes nowhere.
📞 MBM provides direct phone support, email, and a verified business address so you can reach us whenever needed.
5. 🚩 No Contract or Fake Paperwork
Scammers may avoid contracts altogether or send a vague email as proof of service. If you’re not signing an official agreement, your car isn’t protected.
✅ Legit companies like MBM provide:
- Detailed contracts outlining pickup/drop-off
- Insurance coverage info
- Estimated timelines and tracking
6. 🚩 Suspicious Reviews or No Online Presence
Most car shipping scams 2025 have:
- Few or fake-looking reviews
- No Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation
- No presence on Google Maps or Trustpilot
🔍 Before you book, Google the company. Look at their reviews and see how they respond to negative ones.
7. 🚩 Vague Insurance Claims
Scammers may say, “Yes, it’s insured,” but provide no proof. Others will claim your car is only insured during loading and unloading—leaving the rest of the journey unprotected.
✅ MBM Logistics provides:
- Full liability coverage
- Transparent documentation
- Optional cargo insurance upgrades
BONUS: Real-Life Red Flag Stories
One customer reported wiring $850 to a “broker” who never answered after payment. The pickup never came—and the site was offline two days later.
Another was promised 3-day shipping for a cross-country move… only to find out the company was a middleman who never found a real trucker.
How MBM Logistics Protects You
We understand the stress of shipping a car—and the frustration of falling into traps. That’s why MBM is built on transparency, tech, and trust:
✅ FMCSA-certified carrier and broker
✅ Real customer support, no bots
✅ Fully insured and licensed
✅ Secure payments only through verifiable methods
✅ Real-time vehicle tracking from pickup to delivery
Conclusion
In 2025, car shipping scams may be getting smarter—but so can you. Avoid shady brokers, spot red flags, and work only with licensed, trustworthy companies. MBM Logistics is here to make sure your vehicle gets from point A to B without any surprises.
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