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Number 1 Auto Transport Review: Honest Look at Their Service

Transportvibe

January 15, 2026

9 min read

Number 1 Auto Transport provides reliable brokerage services for nationwide vehicle shipping. More than 17 million cars are sold in the U.S. annually, and every buyer needs a safe way to move their new wheels home.

Our Number 1 Auto Transport review reveals why this New York-based broker maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Finding a trustworthy company shouldn't feel like a gamble. We analyze real customer feedback and safety data to help you decide if Number 1 Auto Transport fits your specific moving needs.

Looking for the most reliable way to ship your vehicle? Get a free, transparent quote today to see how our vetted network of carriers can simplify your next move.

What Number 1 Auto Transport Actually Does And How The Company Operates

Number1 landing page

With Number 1 Auto Transport, you are dealing with a company that has spent over 15 years refining the logistics of nationwide vehicle shipping. Since its beginning, Number 1 Auto Transport has successfully delivered more than 50,000 vehicles, ranging from standard sedans to heavy equipment.

As an auto transport broker, they act as the essential bridge between you and a vast network of vetted carriers. Instead of maintaining a private fleet, they use their industry leverage to match your specific job with a driver already running your route.

Diverse clientele: They serve individuals moving cross-country, dealerships managing inventory, and buyers winning auto auction car transport bids.
Specialized relocations: Whether you are a snowbird heading south or a service member needing military vehicle relocation, their system is built for these high-stress transitions.
Safety verification: Every carrier in their network must maintain active status with the FMCSA, ensuring they meet federal safety and insurance standards.

The company handles the heavy lifting of choosing the best vehicle shipper by verifying the MC number and insurance of every driver. This brokerage model allows them to offer flexible scheduling that a single-carrier fleet simply cannot match.

By centralizing the logistics, Number 1 Auto Transport ensures your vehicle isn't just another VIN on a trailer, but a priority shipment handled by professionals who know the local regulations.

Pricing Transparency, Quote Accuracy, And Total Cost Risks

Getting a straight answer on car shipping costs can feel like pulling teeth. You want a firm number, but the industry often operates on "estimates" that can shift before the driver even pulls into your driveway.

Number 1 Auto Transport positions itself as a transparent alternative to the typical bait-and-switch tactics found in the brokerage world. By understanding how they build your quote, you can avoid the common hidden car shipping fees that catch many first-time shippers off guard.

How Quotes Are Calculated And What Affects Final Pricing

Your Number 1 Auto Transport quote isn't just a random number; it is a calculation based on real-time market data. Distance is the most obvious factor, but your specific route matters just as much as the mileage.

Vehicle Specifications: A heavy Ford F-150 costs more to move than a Honda Civic because it takes up more weight capacity and fuel.
Transport Method: Choosing open vs enclosed car shipping is the fastest way to swing your price. Enclosed trailers typically cost 40% to 60% more due to the added protection.
Vehicle Condition: If your car doesn't run, the carrier needs specialized winches. This usually adds a fee of $100 to $300 to your total.
Timing and Demand: Seasonal spikes—like the snowbird rush—increase demand and drive up carrier rates.

Flexibility is your best friend here. If you can wait a few extra days for pickup, you often get a better rate than if you demand a rigid, expedited window.

Deposits, Hidden Fees, And Price Change Scenarios

You should never pay the full amount upfront. Number 1 Auto Transport typically uses a structure where you pay a deposit once a carrier is assigned, with the remaining balance due in cash or certified funds at delivery.

Price increases usually happen if the initial details were off. If you tell them you're shipping a sedan but a lifted SUV shows up, the carrier will demand more money to cover the extra space.

Cancellation Clarity: You can often cancel before a carrier is assigned without a penalty, but once a driver is booked, your deposit usually becomes a non-refundable cancellation fee.
Refund Terms: Always review your specific contract for refund timelines, as many brokers consider the service "rendered" once the truck is dispatched.

To stay safe, always check a company's FMCSA Company Data to ensure they are a licensed broker. Knowing the rules of the road helps you spot red flags before you hand over your credit card.

Reliability Indicators That Matter More Than Marketing Claims

Marketing brochures often promise perfection, but in the trenches of logistics, reliability is measured by performance patterns. For Number 1 Auto Transport, their consistency in on-time pickup and delivery is backed by a robust communication system that keeps you informed at every milestone.

Number1 attributes

Real-world reliability comes down to how a company operates when things don't go perfectly. You need a partner that offers smart ways to track your car during shipping so you never have to guess where your investment is located.

Verified Licensing: Every carrier matched by Number 1 Auto Transport must have an active FMCSA registration and a clean safety record.
Insurance Coverage: They verify that carriers carry high-limit cargo insurance, providing a safety net that goes beyond basic liability.
Claims Clarity: A transparent car shipping insurance process is vital; they provide clear steps for documenting the Bill of Lading to handle potential damage or delays in practice.

Communication consistency is the hallmark of a veteran broker. Instead of vague windows, you receive specific updates from a dedicated support team that understands the nuances of shipping a car to another state.

When delays occur due to weather or traffic, the focus shifts to solution-oriented support. They prioritize getting your vehicle back on schedule without compromising the safety of the load.

Customer Experience Signals From Public Feedback

Public sentiment for Number 1 Auto Transport reveals a pattern of high-touch service, particularly regarding communication. While marketing claims are common in this industry, their A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) serves as a concrete anchor for their reputation. When you look at their review volume compared to their 50,000+ shipments, the feedback suggests a consistent operation rather than a flash-in-the-pan brokerage.

Number1 autotransport reviews

Most positive themes revolve around the responsiveness of individual agents. You will often see specific names mentioned in Google reviews, highlighting a personal level of accountability that many larger, automated brokers lack.

Positive Signals: Customers frequently praise the speed of carrier assignment and the clarity of the initial consultation. Many note that their vehicles arrived earlier than the estimated window.
Recurring Complaints: Like most brokers, they face criticism regarding price fluctuations. These typically occur when market demand shifts or vehicle details (like modifications) were not disclosed upfront.
Complaint Resolution: Their BBB profile shows a proactive approach to disputes. Instead of ignoring negative feedback, the company typically responds with factual rebuttals or internal fixes to resolve the user's issue.

Number1 Auto Transport review on yelp

The sheer density of 5-star ratings on platforms like platforms indicates that they maintain a high success rate even on difficult routes. However, as a savvy consumer, you should always weigh these against the total shipment volume to see the full picture of their customer stories and service insight.

Inside the Mind of Savvy Shippers

Shipping a vehicle isn't a daily task for most people, leading to unique concerns about specialized cargo and safety protocols. These common queries reflect what most U.S. customers want to know before committing.

Can I ship a car with personal items inside using this service?

Number 1 Auto Transport advises against this because carriers are not licensed for household goods. However, you can typically leave up to 100 pounds of linens or clothing secured in the trunk.

Is my vehicle fully insured while it is in transit?

Yes, every carrier in the network must provide primary cargo insurance. Your vehicle is covered from the moment it is loaded onto the trailer until the final inspection is signed at delivery.

How do I ship a non-running vehicle that doesn't drive?

You can ship an inoperable car as long as it rolls, steers, and brakes. This requires a carrier with a winch, which usually adds a specialized equipment fee to your final quote.

What documents do I need for state to state auto transport?

For domestic moves, you generally only need to provide the keys and the signed Bill of Lading. Some carriers may ask to see the registration or insurance, but a title is rarely required.

Can I track my vehicle's location during the shipping process?

While not all trailers have GPS, you can get real-time updates by contacting your assigned driver directly. The dispatch team also stays in constant communication to provide you with status reports upon request.

Is Number 1 Auto Transport Right For You?

Choosing a partner for vehicle relocation requires a balance of cost, safety, and verified history. This review shows that Number 1 Auto Transport leans on its 15-year tenure and massive 50,000-vehicle track record to provide a stable brokerage experience. They avoid the common "bait and switch" by locking in prices once a carrier is assigned, which is a rare level of transparency in this industry.

Reliability isn't just about the miles; it is about the accountability behind them. By strictly vetting carriers through the FMCSA and maintaining an A+ BBB rating, this company addresses the primary fears of the American consumer. Whether you are moving a family SUV or an auction find, their model is designed to minimize your personal risk.

Ready to secure a spot on a carrier's schedule? Request your free, no-obligation quote now to see how Number 1 Auto Transport can make your next vehicle move completely effortless.

JAN 14, 2026

American Auto Shipping Review: Trusted or Overhyped?

TRANSPORTVIBE

American Auto Shipping is a legitimate broker with an A+ BBB rating that has moved over 182,000 vehicles since 1999. While they offer a unique price-lock guarantee, some users report communication gaps with their third-party carriers. Finding a reliable transporter shouldn't feel like a gamble. With so many options available, checking verified data is the only way to protect your investment. This American Auto Shipping review breaks down their AI-powered pricing, binding quotes, and actual customer experiences to help you decide if they are the right fit for your next move. Choosing the right provider is the first step toward a stress-free move. If you are looking for reliable rates and vetted carriers, you can get a quote from our trusted network of partners today. How American Auto Shipping's Pricing Compares to Industry Standards You will find that American Auto Shipping operates differently from many brokers by using a three-tier pricing structure. Their "Standard" rate targets a 1-5 day pickup window, while "Priority" and "Expedited" tiers add roughly $200 to $500 to the base cost. Your final quote is influenced by distance, vehicle size, and seasonal demand. Unlike many competitors, they offer a binding quote that essentially locks in your price at booking, protecting you from the common "bait-and-switch" tactics seen elsewhere in the industry. Payment and deposit breakdown - Zero Upfront Deposit: You aren't charged a cent until a carrier is officially dispatched to your order. Split Payment: Once a driver is assigned, you pay a portion via credit card as a broker fee, while the remaining balance is paid directly to the driver at delivery. Accepted Methods: Drivers typically require cash, cashier's checks, or money orders to release your vehicle. While they promise no hidden fees, you should always disclose if your vehicle is inoperable or modified. These factors require specialized equipment like winches, which can trigger legitimate surcharges. Company Avg. Cost (1,500 miles) Best Feature American Auto Shipping $900 - $1,200 Binding Quotes & Perks Montway Auto Transport $1,000 - $1,100 Nationwide Capacity SGT Auto Transport $1,080 Price-Match Guarantee Sherpa Auto Transport $1,300 Price Lock Promise Their "premium" positioning is often justified by unique perks, such as a $20 car wash reimbursement and up to $500 toward your insurance deductible if damage occurs. To secure the best rates, try to book during the "off-season" in late fall or winter when seasonal car shipping secrets can help you avoid the summer price hikes. Before you commit, it is wise to check DOT and an MC number to ensure any assigned carrier is fully compliant with federal regulations. What Their Customer Support Actually Delivers (And Where It Falls Short) Customer service is the backbone of any broker-client relationship. You need to know that American Auto Shipping will pick up the phone when your driver is three hours late. While they market heavily around their "Best for Customer Support" awards, the reality for you as a shipper can vary depending on which of their offices—Las Vegas or Portland—handles your file. Response Times And Communication Channels American Auto Shipping claims to offer 24/7 support. In practice, this means you can reach a representative by phone at (800) 930-7417 at any hour to get a quote or check an order status. Their "concierge service" is designed to oversee your shipment from the initial click to the final drop-off. You will likely find their initial sales communication via phone and email to be rapid and professional. However, once a carrier is dispatched, some users report a "communication gap." During peak seasons like the summer move rush, wait times for live chat can increase. You might find that while the broker is available 24/7, the actual truck driver is not. This can lead to frustration if you are trying to track your car during shipping and can't get a straight answer. The company uses an AI-powered marketplace to streamline updates, but nothing beats a human touch when logistics get messy. If you are shipping from high-volume hubs like California or Florida , expect faster carrier assignments but potentially busier support lines. Always keep your order number handy to bypass the automated prompts quickly. Problem Resolution Track Record How they handle a crisis defines their value to you. American Auto Shipping maintains an A+ rating with the BBB, largely because they respond to almost every complaint with detail. They offer a "Damage Free or We Help Pay" guarantee. This means if a carrier's insurance denies a valid claim, American Auto Shipping may cover up to $500 of your deductible. Real-world data shows they are proactive with refunds if a credit card processor error occurs, which happened in several 2025 cases. If your delivery is excessively delayed—meaning more than 14 days past the window—they provide a free rental car. This is a rare perk in the industry that provides you with a tangible safety net. Despite these pros, some Trustpilot reviews highlight "ghosting" when a third-party carrier cancels last minute. In these instances, you must be firm. Ask for your file to be escalated to a manager in the Portland office. If you’re worried about these common pitfalls, reviewing a guide to avoid 10 car shipping mistakes can help you stay ahead of the curve. The Real Story Behind Their Delivery Timelines and Carrier Network You will find that American Auto Shipping relies on a massive network of over 8,500 vetted carriers to move vehicles across all 50 states. Their route coverage is extensive, but delivery windows are strictly estimates based on mileage. Typical transit windows - Under 500 miles: 1–3 days. 500–1,500 miles: 3–5 days. 1,500–2,500+ miles: 7–14 days. The company focuses almost exclusively on door-to-door service because it is safer and reduces vehicle handling. While terminal-to-terminal options exist, they often lead to longer waits as carriers prefer the efficiency of direct residential or business pickups. To protect your investment, every carrier must maintain an active USDOT number and a "Satisfactory" safety rating from the FMCSA . American Auto Shipping verifies that each driver carries at least $1,000,000 in liability and $100,000 in cargo insurance. You can monitor progress through their online portal, though real-time GPS tracking is often limited by the specific equipment on the carrier's truck. During high-demand periods like the summer "peak season," you might face delays of 3–5 days for initial pickup. In rare cases where they miss a timeline by more than 14 days, they offer a rental car reimbursement—a solid hedge against the hidden car shipping fees you might find elsewhere. Insurance Coverage and Damage Claims: What You're Actually Protected Against You need to understand that American Auto Shipping acts as a broker, meaning the primary insurance coverage comes from the carrier’s policy, not the broker itself. Every carrier in their network is required to carry at least $1,000,000 in public liability and $100,000 in cargo insurance to protect your vehicle against theft or transit damage. While $100,000 sounds substantial, this limit is often shared among all vehicles on the trailer. If you are moving a high-end vehicle, this might not cover its full value. Furthermore, standard policies typically exclude: Acts of God : Damage from hail, floods, or hurricanes. Personal Belongings : Any items left inside the car are not covered. Road Debris : Chips from flying stones are often considered a "road hazard" and excluded. If you find a new scratch, you must act fast. You have exactly 24 hours to report the damage to American Auto Shipping after delivery. Document : Note the damage on the Bill of Lading (BOL) and take photos before the driver leaves. Contact : Call the broker and the carrier's main office immediately. Submit : Provide the signed BOL and photos to the carrier's insurance company. One standout feature for you is their "Damage Free or We Help Pay" guarantee. If a carrier’s insurance denies a valid claim, they may pay up to $500 toward your personal insurance deductible. Average resolution times range from 2 to 4 weeks, provided your paperwork is flawless. To avoid a headache, always check the FMCSA Company Data to verify a carrier's current insurance status before your car is loaded. Customer Feedback Analysis You will find that customer sentiment for American Auto Shipping remains largely positive, though it is not without recurring friction points. On the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, the company holds an impressive 4.58-star rating from over 330 reviews. Conversely, their Trustpilot score is a more modest 3.9 stars, reflecting a smaller but more critical sample size. Common positive and recurring complaints - Professionalism : Many users praise specific agents like Shaun and Roger for their clarity and transparency during the booking phase. Efficiency : Customers frequently mention that vehicles are picked up and delivered within the promised 1–5 day "Standard" window. Communication Gaps : A recurring complaint involves unresponsiveness after a carrier is assigned, leaving some users in the dark about exact arrival times. Payment Disputes : Some 2025 reviews highlight issues with credit card processors that led to temporary order cancellations and refund delays. Over the last 12–24 months, the company has maintained its A+ BBB rating by actively responding to negative feedback. Most formal complaints are marked as "Answered" or "Resolved," showing a high level of engagement with dissatisfied customers. On verified platforms like ConsumerAffairs, the ratio of positive to negative feedback is approximately 4:1. While their AI-powered marketplace aims to exceed expectations on speed, some service aspects like terminal-to-terminal vs door-to-door car shipping can still cause delays if carrier availability is low. To stay ahead of these issues, you should always check DOT and an MC number for the specific carrier assigned to your load. Reviews can tell you a lot, but a personalized quote tells you the rest. If you are ready for a shipping experience backed by a 4.58-star BBB rating, get a quote today to lock in your price. Inside Knowledge: Answering Your Most Pressing Queries Navigating the logistics of vehicle transport often brings up specific concerns that a standard review might miss. Below are direct answers to the unique scenarios you might face when booking your shipment. Can I ship a car with personal belongings inside? Technically, no. Carriers are not licensed to haul household goods. However, American Auto Shipping typically allows up to 100 lbs of soft items secured in the trunk at your own risk. Does American Auto Shipping offer a military discount? Yes. They provide specialized pricing for active duty and veterans. To secure these savings, mention your status to a representative when discussing military vehicle relocation to ensure the discount is applied. What happens if I need to cancel my order? You can cancel for free before a carrier is dispatched. If a driver has already been assigned, a cancellation fee applies. Always review the car shipping contract tips first. Is American Auto Shipping safe for luxury cars? Their high carrier vetting standards make them a strong choice. For maximum protection, you should opt for enclosed vehicle shipping to shield your high-value investment from road debris and weather. Can you ship a non-running vehicle with this company? Yes, they can accommodate inoperable cars. You must disclose this upfront so they can dispatch a carrier with a winch. Should You Choose American Auto Shipping for Your Move? You should choose American Auto Shipping if you value price certainty and extra protection perks. Their locked-in quotes and A+ BBB rating provide a solid foundation for a stress-free experience. While they lack real-time GPS tracking and had minor payment processing issues in early 2025, their commitment to resolving complaints and offering rental car reimbursements for delays sets them apart from typical brokers. If you need a reliable partner that vets every carrier through the FMCSA , they are a top-tier contender. Always weigh their binding prices against your specific timeline to ensure the best fit. Ready to experience a move backed by an industry-leading damage guarantee and transparent pricing? Get a quote today to receive your custom, binding estimate from our network of professional carriers.