Hostage Vehicle Scams: Cash Demands at Delivery

Your car arrives. Before handing over the keys, the driver says you owe more than you agreed to, in cash, right now. If you don’t pay, the car stays on the truck. It’s called a hostage vehicle situation, and it’s one of the worst experiences in car shipping.

How It Happens

After a lowball quote. The booking price was too low, the difference was never sorted out, and the carrier tries to collect it at delivery.
Surprise “fees.” Fuel surcharges, extra-stop fees, or “the car was heavier than listed,” announced only at the end.
Miscommunication. The customer, the company and the carrier each had a different understanding of what was due at delivery.
Bad actors. Occasionally, someone simply tries it because customers usually pay to get their car back.

How to Prevent It

Get the total price in writing before pickup, including exactly how much is due at delivery and how it can be paid.
Confirm it with the driver at pickup. Make sure the amount due on delivery matches your paperwork.
Be accurate about your vehicle: size, modifications and whether it runs. It removes the excuse for “extra” charges.
Avoid lowball quotes. They’re the most common root cause. Here’s why.
Check registration. Look up the company’s USDOT and MC numbers on the FMCSA website.

If It Happens to You

Stay calm and don’t sign anything that says the car arrived in good condition until you’ve inspected it.
Show the driver your written agreement.
Call the company that booked your shipment right away, while the driver is there.
Write down the carrier’s name, USDOT number and the truck details, and keep records of every call and message.
If it can’t be resolved, you can file a complaint with FMCSA through its National Consumer Complaint Database.

Questions Before You Book?

Ask any company you’re considering exactly what’s due at delivery and how it’s paid, and get it in writing. You can call us at (424) 453-1800 to ask how payment works for your shipment.