How Do I Know if a Transport Company is Legit?
Shipping your goods with a reputable transport company is essential for ensuring their safe and timely delivery. However, with so many transport companies to choose from, how do I know if a transport company is legit becomes a major concern.
In this blog post, we will discuss some key tips on how to choose a reputable transport company in the USA. By following these tips, you can minimize the risk of fraud and ensure that your goods are delivered safely and on time.
How do I know if a transport company is legitimate in USA?
Let’s delve deeper and have a look at the things to consider so that you can get an answer to your query for how do i know if a transport company is legitimate in USA.
1. Check for a valid motor carrier (MC) number and USDOT number
The first step in choosing a reputable transport company is to check to make sure they have a valid motor carrier (MC) number and a USDOT number. These numbers are issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and are required for all legitimate transport companies in the USA. You can check to see if a company has a valid MC number and USDOT number on the FMCSA website.
To check for an MC number, you can use the following steps:
- Go to the FMCSA website.
- Click on the "Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System" link.
- Enter the company's MC number in the search bar.
- Click on the "Search" button.
- If the company has a valid MC number, you will see their company information displayed on the page.
To check for a USDOT number, you can follow the same steps above, but enter the company's USDOT number in the search bar instead.
If the company does not have a valid MC number or USDOT number, or if you are unable to find their company information on the FMCSA website, this is a red flag. It is best to avoid doing business with companies that do not have valid MC numbers and USDOT numbers.
2. Read online reviews
Another great way to get an idea of a transport company's reputation is to read online reviews. You can find reviews on websites like Google My Business, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Be sure to read both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced view of the company.
When reading online reviews, pay attention to the following:
- The overall rating of the company.
- The number of reviews, both positive and negative.
- The specific complaints that customers have made.
If a company has a large number of negative reviews, or if the complaints are serious, such as lost or damaged shipments, this is a red flag. It is best to avoid doing business with companies that have a lot of negative reviews. Want to know about us? Read our Safeeds transport inc reviews and experience how efficiently we have been dealing with our customers.
3. Confirm the company has a physical address and telephone number
A legitimate transport company will have a physical address and telephone number that you can contact them at. Avoid doing business with companies that only have a PO box address or email address.
If you are unsure about the company's address, you can try to find it on Google Maps. If you cannot find the company's address on Google Maps, or if the address is suspicious, such as a residential address, this is a red flag.
4. Get a written estimate
Before you book a shipment with a transport company, be sure to get a written estimate. This will help you to compare prices and services between different companies. The estimate when you Ask for an estimate should include the following information:
- The cost of shipping
- The estimated delivery date
- Any additional fees, such as fuel surcharges or insurance premiums
If the company is unable to provide you with a written estimate, or if the estimate is too good to be true, this is a red flag. Legitimate transport companies should be able to provide you with a written estimate for your shipment.
5. Be wary of companies that ask for upfront payment
Legitimate transport companies will typically require you to pay a deposit when you book a shipment, but they should not ask for full payment upfront. If a company asks you for full payment upfront, it is a red flag.
Legitimate transport companies will typically allow you to pay for your shipment upon delivery. This is the safest way to pay for your shipment, as it ensures that you will not be charged for a shipment that is never delivered.
6. Avoid companies that pressure you to make payments via wire transfer or other untraceable methods
Legitimate transport companies will accept a variety of payment methods, including credit card, debit card, and check. Avoid doing business with companies that pressure you to make payments via wire transfer or other untraceable methods. It's better to get shipping quote from several service providers and after reviewing everything only finalize your ship.
Wire transfers are a common way for scammers to steal money from their victims. If a company is pressuring you to make a payment via wire transfer, it is a red flag.
7. Ask about the company's insurance coverage
Legitimate USA car shipping companies should have adequate insurance coverage to protect your goods in case of damage or loss. Ask the company about their insurance coverage and get a copy of their insurance certificate.
The insurance certificate should list the following information:
- The company's name and address
- The company's policy number
- The types of coverage that the policy provides
- The limits of coverage
If the company does not have adequate insurance coverage, or if they are unable to provide you with a copy of their insurance certificate, this is a red flag. It is best to avoid doing business with companies that do not have adequate insurance coverage.
8. Be aware of common scams
Several common scams transport companies use to defraud customers. Here are a few things to be aware of:
- Hidden fees: Some companies will quote you a low shipping price, but then add on several hidden fees once your shipment is in transit. Be sure to read the fine print carefully before you book a shipment.
- Fake tracking numbers: Some companies will give you a fake tracking number so that you can't track your shipment. This is a common tactic used by scammers.
- Delivery delays: Some companies will delay delivery of shipments to extort more money from customers. If your shipment is delayed, be sure to contact the company immediately.
What to do if you think you've been scammed
If you think you've been scammed by a transport company, there are a few things you can do:
- File a complaint with the FMCSA. The FMCSA is the government agency that regulates the transport industry. You can file a complaint online or by calling the FMCSA.
- File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. The Better Business Bureau is a non-profit organization that helps consumers resolve disputes with businesses. You can file a complaint with the BBB online or by calling your local BBB office.
- Report the scam to your local police department. If you have been the victim of a crime, you should report it to your local police department.
Conclusion
How do I know if a transport company is legit is a major issue when you want to ship your car? Choosing a reputable transport company is essential for ensuring the safe and timely delivery of your goods. There are several factors to consider when choosing a transport company, including the company's reputation, insurance coverage, and services offered. It is also important to be aware of common scams and to avoid companies that ask for upfront payment or pressure you to make payments via wire transfer or other untraceable methods. By following the tips in this blog post, you can choose a reputable transport company and ensure that your goods are delivered safely and on time.
