The auto transport industry has a reputation problem, and it is earned. Here is how to filter the good from the rest in one phone call.
The seven red flags
- They ask for a deposit before a carrier is assigned — this is the single biggest one
- The quote is dramatically below every other quote you received
- They will not give you an MC number, or it does not check out on the FMCSA site
- They will not put the total price in writing in an email
- Nobody will tell you whether they are a broker or a carrier
- Pressure tactics: "this rate expires in one hour"
- You get a different agent every time you call and have to re-explain your order
How to verify anyone in two minutes
Ask for the MC number, then look it up in the FMCSA SAFER system. You will see active authority status, insurance on file, and the legal business name. Any legitimate broker will hand you that number without hesitation — it is public record and it is the whole basis of the license.
