5 Signs of a Bad Car Shipping Company to Avoid - Earthrelo

5 Signs of a Bad Car Shipping Company to Avoid

  • May 16, 2023

Car shipping is an essential service for those who need to move their vehicles across long distances. However, choosing a bad car shipping company can result in damages, delays, or even loss of your car. To avoid any unpleasant experiences, it is crucial to identify the signs of a bad car shipping company. In this blog, we will discuss five signs of a bad car shipping company that you should watch out for, with insights from Earthrelo, a reputable international moving and car shipping company.

Lack of License and Insurance

Earthrelo notes that a reputable car shipping company must be licensed and insured. A license ensures that the company is legally authorized to operate, while insurance guarantees the safety of your vehicle during transportation. Before choosing a car shipping company, ensure that they have valid licenses and insurance. A bad car shipping company may lack these critical documents, putting your vehicle at risk in case of an accident or theft.

It is essential to check the company’s licenses and insurance policy before choosing them for car shipping. In the case of international shipping, the company should have a license to operate in the country of origin and destination. Furthermore, the company should have an insurance policy that covers any damages or losses that may occur during transportation.

Unrealistic Pricing

When searching for a car shipping company, you will come across different quotes from different providers. While you may want to go for the cheapest option, Earthrelo advises being cautious of quotes that are too low. A bad car shipping company may offer unrealistically low prices as a tactic to lure clients. Such companies may have hidden fees, or they may offer substandard services that may end up costing you more.

Low prices may be tempting, but they may not necessarily be the best option. Cheap car shipping companies may use low prices as a strategy to get more clients, but they may not offer quality services. Furthermore, these companies may have hidden fees that may increase the overall cost of shipping. Before choosing a car shipping company based on price, ensure that you understand all the costs involved and that the company offers quality services.

Poor Reviews and Ratings

According to Earthrelo, online reviews and ratings can give you a clear picture of a company’s reputation. Before choosing a car shipping company, read online reviews and ratings to understand what previous clients have to say about the company. A bad car shipping company may have numerous negative reviews and low ratings, indicating that previous clients had a bad experience. Avoid such companies and opt for those with positive reviews and high ratings.

Online reviews and ratings are an excellent source of information about a car shipping company. Before choosing a company, check their reviews and ratings on reputable platforms such as Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. Furthermore, it is essential to read both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced view of the company’s services.

Lack of Communication

Earthrelo emphasizes that a good car shipping company should keep you updated on the progress of your shipment. Communication is vital during the shipping process to ensure that everything runs smoothly. A bad car shipping company may lack proper communication channels, making it difficult to reach them in case of an emergency or to track the progress of your shipment.

Before choosing a car shipping company, ask about their communication channels and how often they will update you on the progress of your shipment. Furthermore, ensure that they have a customer service department that is available to answer any questions or concerns you may have. Good communication is essential for a stress-free car shipping experience.

No Clear Terms and Conditions

Before signing a contract with a car shipping company, Earthrelo advises ensuring that you read and understand their terms and conditions. A bad car shipping company may lack clear terms and conditions or may have confusing ones. Such companies may take advantage of loopholes in the contract to exploit you or offer poor-quality services. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the terms and conditions of the contract to ensure that you are not caught off guard.

Moreover, reputable car shipping companies like Earthrelo always provide clear and concise contracts that outline their responsibilities and obligations. They also indicate the client’s responsibilities, including preparing the vehicle for transportation and providing accurate information about the car’s condition. Clear terms and conditions help to establish trust between the client and the car shipping company and ensure that there are no misunderstandings during the shipping process.

In addition to the above signs, there are other warning signs that you should watch out for when choosing a car shipping company. For instance, a company that has a high number of complaints or unresolved issues with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) should be avoided. The BBB is a trusted organization that rates businesses based on their reliability and trustworthiness. If a car shipping company has a low rating with the BBB, it means that they have had numerous complaints from clients, and they have not taken the necessary steps to resolve them.

Another warning sign to watch out for is a company that does not have a physical address or a website. Reputable car shipping companies like Earthrelo have a physical address and a website where clients can access information about their services, rates, and contact details. A company that lacks a physical address or a website is likely a fraudulent one, and you should avoid it at all costs.

When identifying a bad car shipping company, there are a few additional points to consider. Firstly, a bad car shipping company may lack a physical address or office, making it difficult to locate them in case of any issues. It is always best to choose a company with a physical address or office that you can visit if necessary. Secondly, good customer support is essential when it comes to car shipping. A bad car shipping company may lack a proper customer support system, making it difficult to get any assistance or address any concerns during the shipping process. Furthermore, a reputable car shipping company should have well-maintained shipping trucks and equipment to ensure the safety of your vehicle during transportation. A bad car shipping company may have poorly maintained trucks and equipment, increasing the risk of damage or accidents during transit.

In addition, if you have a special vehicle such as a classic car or motorcycle, you need to ensure that the car shipping company you choose has the proper equipment to handle your vehicle. A bad car shipping company may lack the necessary equipment, leading to damage or loss of your vehicle during transportation. Moreover, a good car shipping company should have a tracking system that allows you to track the progress of your shipment. A bad car shipping company may lack a proper tracking system, making it difficult to know the whereabouts of your vehicle during transportation.

It is crucial to watch out for the above signs to identify a bad car shipping company and avoid any unpleasant experiences. Remember to choose a reputable car shipping company like Earthrelo that prioritizes the safety and timely delivery of your vehicle. Earthrelo emphasizes the importance of choosing a car shipping company that has a physical address, a proper customer support system, well-maintained shipping trucks and equipment, proper equipment for shipping special vehicles, and a tracking system. By selecting a reliable car shipping company, you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is in safe hands during transportation.

Conclusion

shipping a car can be a daunting task, but choosing the right car shipping company can make the process easier and stress-free. By watching out for the above signs, you can identify a bad car shipping company and avoid any unpleasant experiences. Remember, your car is a valuable asset, and it deserves to be handled with care during transportation. Earthrelo is a reputable international moving and car shipping company that can handle all your car shipping needs. They prioritize the safety and timely delivery of your vehicle, ensuring that you have a seamless shipping experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

  • What are the warning signs of a bad car shipping company?

    Red flags include vague pricing, lack of licensing or insurance, pushy sales tactics, poor communication, and consistently negative reviews. If a car shipping company can’t provide written estimates or avoids giving direct answers about delivery timelines, that’s a problem. At Earthrelo, we believe in clear, upfront communication, fully licensed operations, and customer-first service. Our goal is to make your car shipping experience smooth, secure, and completely transparent.

  • How can I tell if a car shipping company is legit?

    Legit car shipping companies are registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation, offer valid insurance, provide written contracts, and have a clear physical presence. They also have verifiable reviews across trusted platforms. Earthrelo operates with full licensing, offers verifiable documentation, and is committed to customer satisfaction. You can trust our team to deliver reliable vehicle shipping backed by years of experience and a stellar reputation.

  • What common scams should I watch out for in auto transport?

    Beware of bait-and-switch pricing, fake reviews, brokers posing as carriers, or companies that demand large deposits upfront without a formal contract. Scammers often disappear after payment or fail to deliver the service. Earthrelo is committed to honest business practices. We never ask for unreasonable deposits or hide fees. Our quotes are comprehensive and our team communicates every step clearly—so you know exactly what to expect with your car shipment.

  • How do I verify a car shipping company’s credentials?

    To verify credentials, check for the company’s U.S. DOT and MC numbers on the FMCSA website. You can also ask for insurance documents and confirm their physical office address. Earthrelo proudly provides all verification details upon request and encourages customers to perform their due diligence. We believe in building trust through full transparency and verified professional standards, especially when transporting something as valuable as your vehicle.

  • Why do some car transport companies have hidden fees?

    Hidden fees often result from vague quotes, unclear contracts, or deceptive pricing tactics. These may include additional charges for delivery delays, fuel surcharges, or vehicle size. At Earthrelo, we eliminate confusion with clearly written estimates and all-inclusive quotes. We walk you through the pricing so you understand exactly what’s covered—no surprises, just reliable service with a focus on honesty and professionalism.

  • What should a good car shipping contract include?

    A proper car shipping contract should include pickup and delivery dates, total cost, insurance coverage, cancellation terms, and the company’s DOT and MC numbers. It should clearly state the responsibilities of both the customer and the shipping company. Earthrelo provides detailed contracts that cover all necessary terms, so you know exactly what you’re signing up for. Our process is built to protect your vehicle—and your peace of mind.

  • What happens if a car shipping company damages your vehicle?

    If your vehicle is damaged during transport, the company’s insurance should cover the cost of repairs. However, without proper documentation or if the company is uninsured, getting compensation can be difficult. At Earthrelo, your vehicle is fully insured while in transit. We conduct thorough pre- and post-transport inspections and assist you with the claims process if needed. Your car’s safety is our top priority, and we treat it with the care it deserves.

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