Car thieves are getting more sophisticated, and their latest target isn’t parked vehicles on the street—it’s the transport industry itself. Recent reports from Miami Beach police detail how criminals are manipulating transporters and dispatchers into rerouting luxury car deliveries straight into their hands. If you’re planning to transport your classic, rare, or exotic car, here’s what you need to know about this alarming trend and how to protect yourself.
How the Scam Works
Instead of hotwiring or breaking into parked cars, these criminals are exploiting the logistics of vehicle transportation. Here’s how they pull it off:
Targeting Transporters: Thieves identify vehicle dispatchers and transport companies responsible for moving high-end cars across the country.
Faking Paperwork: Using forged documents and posing as legitimate clients, they convince transporters to reroute deliveries to fraudulent locations.
Stealing the Cars: Once the vehicles arrive at these unauthorized destinations, the thieves quickly claim them and drive off before the fraud is discovered.
A recent case in Miami Beach involved multiple stolen luxury vehicles, including a Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini Urus, and Audi R8. Surveillance footage showed suspects tracking transport trucks and picking up rerouted cars. Law enforcement only uncovered the scheme after a Rolls-Royce failed to arrive at its intended destination in Detroit. A sting operation eventually led to arrests, but not before multiple high-end vehicles vanished.
How to Protect Your Vehicle During Transport
With this growing trend, it’s essential for car owners and transporters to stay vigilant. Here are some expert-recommended steps to keep your vehicle safe:
Use a GPS Tracking System
Consider installing a GPS tracker in your car before shipping it. Many modern vehicles come equipped with tracking technology, but aftermarket options are also available. This allows you to monitor the location of your vehicle in real-time.
Thoroughly Vet Your Transport Company
Before hiring a transportation service, research their background, customer reviews, and credentials. Verify that they have a solid reputation and ask for proof of licensing and insurance.
Confirm Delivery Details Personally
Double-check all delivery details with both the dispatcher and the driver. Be wary of any last-minute changes to the drop-off location, and always confirm the authenticity of any modifications directly with the transport company.
Use a Trusted, Owner-Operated Transport Service
Companies like Yerardi Transportation Inc. provide peace of mind because your driver is also the business owner. Ted Yerardi personally handles every transport, ensuring your car arrives safely at its intended destination.
Final Thoughts
As car transport scams become more sophisticated, it’s crucial to stay one step ahead. By choosing a reputable transporter, using tracking devices, and confirming delivery details, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to these schemes.
At Yerardi Transportation Inc., we prioritize security and transparency. With over 20 years of experience and a fully enclosed, custom-built trailer, we ensure that your classic, rare, or exotic car is transported safely and securely. Contact us today to learn more about our white-glove transport services and how we go the extra mile to protect your prized vehicle.