Moves vehicles to all 48 states | CARXNOW Auto Transport

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How to Compare Car Shipping Quotes Without Getting Scammed

Here's how to compare quotes the right way and avoid common scams in the auto transport industry.

Step 1: Understand What’s Included in the Quote

Before comparing prices, make sure you're comparing the same services. One quote might be for open transport, while another is for enclosed. Some may include insurance, others may not.

Checklist of What to Confirm:

Type of carrier: open vs. enclosed
Pickup and delivery: door-to-door vs. terminal-to-terminal
Insurance coverage included
Estimated delivery window

Step 2: Beware of Lowball Offers

If one quote is dramatically lower than the rest, that’s a red flag. Unscrupulous brokers often list below-market prices just to win your booking — but can’t actually secure a carrier for that rate.

How to protect yourself:

Request a price breakdown and ask directly: “Is this a guaranteed rate or just an estimate?” Legitimate companies will be transparent.

Step 3: Check Company Credentials

Every car shipping company should be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a valid USDOT number. If they don’t, walk away.

Where to check:

FMCSA Company Snapshot Tool
Better Business Bureau (BBB) profiles
Google and Trustpilot reviews

Step 4: Read the Fine Print

Even a great quote can come with bad terms. Some contracts allow for price increases after booking or have vague delivery time frames.

Red flags to avoid:

“Price subject to change based on carrier availability”
No defined cancellation or refund policy
Hidden surcharges for rural pickup, fuel, or oversized vehicles

Step 5: Ask These 3 Key Questions Before Booking

Is this an all-inclusive price?
How long is the quote valid?
Will I be notified before any price changes?

The way a company answers these questions will reveal a lot about their transparency and reliability.

Discover More About Car Shipping

Click below for expert tips and step-by-step guides on transporting your car across state lines.

Since 2012, CarXnow has been redefining vehicle shipping across the U.S. and Canada — fast, secure, and hassle-free. With a network of 468 carriers and 625,020+ vehicles delivered, we have the right equipment to transport all types of vehicles — cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more. Enjoy guaranteed service, live GPS tracking, and transport up to 2X faster than the competition.

🚗 Get started today with a free quote and easy online booking! Our expert agents are available every day of the year to assist with your auto transport needs.

Our priority is earning your trust and providing you with peace of mind throughout the entire process. Transparent pricing, no spam, no pushy sales. Call us today: (815) 209 9657