What Brokers Do
Auto transport brokers are intermediaries. They take your order, find a carrier willing to move your vehicle, and pocket the difference between what you pay and what the carrier receives. About 80% of the car shipping companies you find online are brokers, not carriers.
What Carriers Do
Carriers own the trucks and physically transport your vehicle. They employ the drivers, maintain the equipment, and carry the cargo insurance. Going direct to a carrier can save the broker markup — but most carriers don't market directly to consumers.
The Broker Problem
The broker model creates a fundamental misalignment: brokers are incentivized to quote low (to win your business) and pay carriers low (to maximize their margin). This leads to underquoted shipments, slow carrier assignment, and the infamous 'price increase after booking' tactic.
How ShipCargo Is Different
ShipCargo uses AI-powered carrier matching that connects you directly with vetted carriers at fair market rates. No broker markup, no bait-and-switch. You pay the quoted price, carriers get paid fairly, and vehicles move faster because carriers aren't incentivized to skip underpriced loads.
Get Your Free Car Shipping Quote
Instant pricing. No obligations. Pay only when your car arrives.
Get Instant QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to use a broker or carrier for car shipping?+
Going direct to a carrier saves the broker's 15–30% markup. However, most carriers don't work directly with consumers. ShipCargo provides direct carrier access without the traditional broker model.
How do I know if a company is a broker or carrier?+
Check their FMCSA profile: brokers have an MC number with 'Broker' authority. Carriers have 'Carrier' authority. You can look this up at the FMCSA SAFER website.
More on Comparisons
ShipCargo vs. Montway: Honest Comparison
How does ShipCargo compare to Montway Auto Transport? An honest breakdown of pricing, service, and technology.
ComparisonsShipCargo vs. uShip: Why Marketplace Models Fail Shippers
uShip lets carriers bid on your shipment. Here's why that model often fails — and how AI matching is better.
ComparisonsAI-Powered Car Shipping vs. Traditional Brokers: What's the Difference?
Traditional brokers use phones and spreadsheets. AI platforms use algorithms and automation. Here's why it matters.
ComparisonsOpen vs. Enclosed Car Transport: Which Should You Choose?
A decision guide for choosing between open and enclosed auto transport based on your vehicle and needs.
You May Also Like
How Much Does It Cost to Ship a Car? (2026 Complete Guide)
The definitive breakdown of car shipping costs in 2026 — distance, vehicle size, transport type, and seasonal factors that determine your price.
Scams & Consumer ProtectionAuto Transport Scams: The 7 Most Common and How to Avoid Them
From fake companies to bait-and-switch pricing — the 7 scams that cost car shippers thousands every year.
Cost & PricingThe Cheapest Way to Ship a Car in 2026 (Without Getting Scammed)
Yes, you can save money on car shipping — but the cheapest option isn't always the lowest quote. Here's how to actually save.
Cost & PricingCheapest Way to Ship a Car in 2026 (Without Getting Scammed)
The 6 tactics that actually lower your car shipping cost — and the 'cheap' options that end up costing more.
Ready to Ship Your Car?
Get an instant quote in 30 seconds. No obligations. No upfront payment — you're only charged once your vehicle is picked up.
Get My Free QuoteFMCSA-licensed, insured carriers · $0 due today · No hidden fees