Can You Trust Online Reviews When Getting Your Car Shipped Across the Country?
When you’re getting your car shipped across the country, you’re putting more than just a vehicle in someone else’s hands—you’re placing your trust in a company to deliver it safely, on time, and without damage. For many, the decision starts online, where company reviews play a major role. But with so much information—and misinformation—out there, how do you know if those online reviews are trustworthy?
In this guide, we’ll break down how to evaluate reviews, spot red flags, and ensure that the company you’re trusting with your vehicle truly deserves it.
Why Online Reviews Matter When Shipping a Car Cross-Country
With hundreds of auto transport companies competing for business, it’s common to feel overwhelmed. Online reviews promise to simplify things by providing insight into real customer experiences. When you’re getting your car shipped across the country, the stakes are even higher—you want reliability, affordability, and peace of mind.
Reviews can help you evaluate key factors such as:
- Timeliness of delivery
- Price accuracy and fairness
- Condition of the vehicle on arrival
- Customer service responsiveness
- Communication during transport
However, reviews should never be the only thing you rely on.
Fake Reviews: A Real Risk in the Auto Transport Industry
One unfortunate truth is that not all reviews are authentic. Some companies may post fake positive reviews to boost their reputation, while others might see competitors planting false negative reviews to sabotage them.
How to Identify Fake or Misleading Reviews
When looking for a company to help with getting your car shipped across country, here are a few signs a review may not be trustworthy:
- Vague language or generic praise
- Repeated wording across multiple reviews
- No mention of specific routes, issues, or customer service reps
- A sudden influx of overly positive reviews
- Reviewer accounts with no other activity
Cross-referencing reviews on multiple platforms is key to uncovering inconsistencies.
How to Vet Car Shipping Companies Beyond the Reviews
If you want a smooth experience getting a car shipped across the country, treat online car shipping reviews as just one part of your research. Here’s how to dig deeper:
Check the Company’s Credentials
Look up the company’s USDOT and MC numbers on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to ensure they’re licensed and insured.
Ask for a Transparent Quote
Reputable companies provide clear, detailed pricing. Be cautious of suspiciously low quotes or vague estimates—those could signal hidden fees.
Understand the Process
Ask about the type of carrier (open or enclosed), insurance policies, and estimated pickup/delivery times. Knowing what to expect helps avoid surprises.
Review Customer Service Responsiveness
A short phone call or email can reveal a lot about how a company treats its clients. If they’re evasive or pushy before the sale, it likely won’t get better afterward.
How to Read Reviews With a Critical Eye
When researching different auto transport companies for getting your car shipped across country, here’s how to make sense of the feedback you find:
- Focus on detailed stories – Reviews with route details, delivery timelines, and communication examples tend to be more reliable.
- Look for patterns – If multiple reviews mention last-minute price changes or delays, that’s a red flag.
- Balance star ratings with context – A 3-star review that includes constructive feedback is often more useful than a vague 5-star one.
Also, keep an eye on how companies respond to negative reviews. A respectful, professional reply shows that they care about customer experience and are willing to make things right.
Final Thoughts:
When you’re getting your car shipped across the country, online reviews can help narrow your options—but they shouldn’t make the decision for you. Fake feedback, biased ratings, and overly polished testimonials can mislead even the savviest customer.
Instead, combine online research with real-world vetting. Confirm licensing, ask questions, and compare multiple companies before booking. Your car deserves more than just a click—it deserves careful consideration and a trustworthy partner for the journey ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Are reviews enough to choose a car shipping company?
No. While reviews are helpful, they should be supported by checking licenses, requesting written quotes, and asking detailed questions.
Q: How many reviews should a company have?
More isn’t always better. Look for consistency across 20–50 reviews on independent platforms rather than hundreds of possibly fake ones.
Q: Should I use a broker or a direct carrier?
Both have pros and cons. Brokers can offer more options, while direct carriers may offer a more streamlined experience. Either way, ensure they’re licensed and reputable.