Auto Transport Broker vs Carrier: Which Should You Use?

5 min read

When you request car shipping quotes online, most replies come from brokers, not the companies that own the trucks. Both are legal and common — but they work differently, and knowing which one you're dealing with helps you ask the right questions.

What a car hauler (carrier) is

A carrier owns or operates the truck and trailer that physically moves your car. It holds carrier operating authority from FMCSA and must keep liability insurance on file. Carriers range from one-truck owner-operators to large fleets running set routes.

What an auto transport broker is

A broker doesn't own trucks. It takes your order and finds a carrier heading your way, usually by posting your shipment on load boards used by car haulers. Brokers hold broker authority and must keep a $75,000 BMC-84 bond or BMC-85 trust fund on file.

Side-by-side

	Car hauler (carrier)	Auto transport broker
Owns trucks	Yes	No
FMCSA requirement	Carrier authority + liability insurance	Broker authority + $75,000 bond/trust fund
Strength	Direct contact with whoever moves your car	Access to many carriers and routes; flexible
Watch out for	Limited routes and dates	Lowball quotes that can't attract a truck; know who the actual carrier is

Which should you use?

Common route, flexible dates: a direct carrier on that route can work well.
Unusual route, tight timing or you want options: a reputable broker can find capacity faster.
Either way: choose based on licensing, insurance, written terms and realistic pricing — not just the lowest number.

How to check either one

Search the company on carmove.broker. For carriers, look at operating history, insurance on file and safety rating. For brokers, look at authority age, the bond, and revocation history. If you book with a broker, ask for the assigned carrier's name and MC number and check it too. See also how to choose a car shipping company.

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Look up any MC or USDOT number to see authority, bond, revocations and red flags.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are auto transport brokers legitimate?

Many are. Brokers must hold FMCSA broker authority and keep a $75,000 bond or trust fund on file. The risk is not brokers themselves but unlicensed operators — so check the authority and the bond.

Is it cheaper to go directly to a carrier?

Sometimes, but not always. A carrier quotes for its own routes and schedule; a broker shops your shipment to many carriers. Compare realistic quotes and total terms rather than assuming one is cheaper.

How can I tell if a company is a broker or a carrier?

Look it up on carmove.broker or FMCSA. Each profile shows whether the company holds carrier authority (owns trucks) or broker authority (arranges shipping).

Related Guides

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Always confirm a company's status with FMCSA before doing business.