Vehicle History Report Secrets Every Car Shipper Should Know

Introduction: Why a Vehicle History Report Is More Than Just a Form

If you’re buying a used car—especially from an online seller, dealership, or auction—your first instinct might be to check the condition or mileage. But what about the vehicle’s true backstory?

A vehicle history report isn’t just a formality. It’s your window into a car’s past, and it can save you from buying a lemon, shipping a salvage, or overpaying for a car with hidden damage.

At MBM Logistics, we regularly ship vehicles purchased online, from auctions, and across state lines. We’ve seen firsthand how skipping this one step can cost customers thousands. In this blog, we’ll break down what a vehicle history report includes, how to read it, which services to trust, and why it’s crucial before you book shipping.

Vehicle history reports unlock hidden details that could impact your shipping—MBM helps you ship smarter.

What Is a Vehicle History Report?

A vehicle history report is a detailed document that tracks a car’s documented life—using its VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). It reveals:

Title history (clean, salvage, rebuilt, flood-damaged, etc.)
Reported accidents or damage
Odometer readings and rollbacks
Ownership changes
Past registrations (state, fleet, personal use, etc.)
Open recalls
Service records (in some cases)

Why Is It Crucial Before Car Shipping?

Here’s how a vehicle history report directly affects your shipping decision:

Issue Found in Report	Why It Matters for Shipping
Salvage/Rebuilt Title	Requires special handling—may not roll, increased carrier risk
Flood or Fire Damage	Prone to leaking or safety issues—must be disclosed to avoid delays
Odometer Rollbacks	May indicate a fraudulent sale—pause before transport
Multiple Owners or State Changes	Could affect registration, taxes, and pickup documents
Open Recalls	Not always a shipping issue, but could be a dealer return

Pro tip: At MBM, if a customer provides the report, we can pre-prepare the right truck/equipment and flag any concerns with the pickup.

Which Vehicle History Report Should You Choose?

1. Carfax

The most recognized name in the industry. Offers in-depth accident reports, ownership timelines, and service records (if available).

Cost: ~$40 for 1 report, or ~$100 for 5
Best for: Individual buyers

2. AutoCheck

Used heavily by dealers and auctions. Offers a unique “AutoCheck Score” that ranks cars against similar models.

Cost: ~$25–$100 depending on packages
Best for: Bulk reports, auctions, or comparisons

3. VINCheck (Free – NICB)

A basic free tool by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Checks for theft and salvage reports only.

Cost: Free
Best for: Quick pre-check before buying/shipping

What to Look Out for in a Report (Red Flags)

Salvage title or auction declaration not disclosed in listing
Gaps in registration (could mean the car sat after damage)
Accident listed without repairs shown
Rapid ownership flips in short time spans
Odometer “not actual mileage” warning
Listed as inoperable or total loss

All of these may impact shipping cost, equipment type, and carrier willingness to accept the load.

How Vehicle History Impacts Car Shipping Cost

Shipping a clean-title, running vehicle is straightforward. But once there are damage flags or title issues, things can change:

Vehicle Condition	Carrier Type Needed	Cost Impact
Clean Title, Runs	Open carrier	Standard
Salvage Title, Rolls	Open or enclosed w/ winch	+$100–$300
Inoperable, Non-Rolling	Trailer w/ forklift	+$300–$600

Knowing this in advance avoids last-minute cancellations or fees.

MBM’s Pro Tips for Smart Buyers & Shippers

✅ Run the report before you pay or schedule shipping
✅ Send the report to us at time of booking so we can assign the right truck
✅ Check for lien status and proper title assignment—especially if buying from out-of-state
✅ Ask for updated photos if you’re buying online—condition may have changed since the report
✅ If it’s a salvage, be upfront—we ship those every day, but it helps to prep the driver

Final Thoughts: Ship Smarter, Not Riskier

A vehicle history report can protect your wallet, your reputation, and your peace of mind. Whether you’re a flipper, dealer, or first-time online buyer, this is one step you should never skip—especially before scheduling a pickup.

At MBM Logistics, we work hand-in-hand with our customers to understand their vehicle’s condition, so we can match it with the right equipment, timeline, and route. We’re not just another broker—we’re your trusted logistics partner.

🔗 Need help shipping your next vehicle?

Get a quote now and upload your VIN so we can do it right the first time:
👉 https://minutebyminutelogistics.com/stepone