Along with professional transport companies in the US market, there are also scammers who use various schemes to extort money from potential customers. Think about if the carrier offers too attractive conditions and low rates. Maybe it's a trick or a scam. Well, what could happen? The initially low price will increase during the cooperation. The company will impose additional services that you do not need. The carrier works without a contract and therefore is not responsible for your property. These are far from all the risks. Let's talk about how to protect yourself from car shipping scams.
Representatives of reliable companies communicate with customers mainly by phone. Fraudsters can use the name and reputation of a legal carrier to deceive. Check if the number belongs to the carrier. Analyze information on the official website or on Google Maps. By the way, the letters you receive must be sent from an official address. Ask the manager to provide licenses confirming the registration of the company. A reliable carrier will do this without hesitation. But the swindler will begin to doubt, to look for excuses.
Let's say you've studied a company's website and found it very professional and attractive. Positive feedback from satisfied customers also gives confidence. But remember, you can write anything on your site. It is more difficult with third-party services. Look up reviews on Google Maps or the BBB platforms. Pay special attention to negative feedback, and explore company disadvantages.
Ask the manager about the terms of cooperation. The provider must tell in detail about the tariffs or terms of delivery, and provide additional information that is interesting for you. Feel free to ask any questions related to the transportation of your car.
Fraudsters work through such payment systems as Western Union or MoneyGram. Money transferred through these services cannot be tracked. If you are offered one of these payment methods, you are most likely dealing with fraud. Legal transport companies use the following methods:
- payment to a bank account;
- a PayPal transfer, etc.
Again, the more communication, the higher the chance of finding a reliable carrier. Even if the company has generated an attractive offer for you online and sent it to your e-mail, call them. Chat with the manager. It is unacceptable if the carrier does not answer calls. Reputable companies have established customer service or call centers to support communication with customers.
Be prepared for the fact that the world is full of deceit. Instead of blindly trusting the information offered, check the data, and analyze the facts. Obvious signs of a shipping company scam:
- a poorly made website with nothing concrete on it;
- problems with documents or refusal to provide them;
- prices for services are lower than the market ones;
- using untraceable payment methods;
- lack of communication.
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