FMCSA Hotline

Auto Transport Consumer Complaint Hotline & Website

One of the most challenging things for customers hiring an auto shipper is finding accurate, objective information about a car shipping company. The best resource for that information is the FMCSA website, which is part of the U.S. Department of Hauling and oversees the industry. Suppose you’re a regular reader of our blog. In that case, you’ve probably seen us recommend the SAFER system portal on the FMCSA website as a resource for quickly finding information about a car shipper.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how to access the national database of complaints against auto transport companies, how to file a complaint if you have an issue, and what other information is available, either online or over the phone, about car shipping companies. First, let’s take a look at the two most common types of complaints:

Safety Complaint - A safety complaint may be registered within a 60-day window from the time of service. The 60-day limit applies to safety issues but does apply to service complaints. (See the section below for contact information about safety and service records.)

Service Complaint - Service complaints do not require any paperwork, or even many of the specifics of the issue, but any information that can be supplied will undoubtedly help. By providing as much information and documentation as possible, the FMCSA can better address service issues. It also helps to have a record of what occurred if you’re seeking any kind of compensation from the carrier due to damages or problems with the service contract.

Filing a complaint online can be done using the National Consumer Complaint Database link listed under the resources section at the bottom of the page.

Phone Numbers To Research Car Shippers

FMCSA Information1-800-832-5660

Using the information hotline for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, you can verify operating authority, U.S. DOT numbers, safety information, and licensing for auto transport companies.

Consumer Complaints1-888-368-7238

The consumer complaint line registers concerns about a household mover, auto transporter, driver complaints, and safety issues.

Insurance Information1-866-637-0635

Using the insurance hotline, you can verify that a car shipping company has the required insurance coverage to operate as a motor carrier.

Consumer Information Resources

National Consumer Complaint Database - Complaints can be filed online at the NCCD website against auto shippers, insurers, brokers, owners, and companies. There’s also a helpful section of frequently asked questions regarding complaints.

FMCSA Contact Information - Contact information for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, information about field offices & service centers, and phone numbers for various agencies within the Department of Transportation.