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Car shipping company lookup

Check any auto transport company before you book. Enter its USDOT number, MC number or name to see if it is licensed, insured and in good standing with the FMCSA — with red flags explained in plain English.

Examples: 2239816 (USDOT) · MC-795152 · or part of the company name. You'll find the numbers on the company's website, quote or contract.

Carrier & broker

Dixon Auto Transport Inc

USDOT 443510 MC-241938 Jacksonville, FL (904) 367-0700

Email

Check the flagged items before you book

1 thing is worth asking the company about. None of them alone means a scam.

What we checked

  • USDOT number is active

    The company's federal registration is current.

  • Operating authority is active

    Authorized for hire across state lines as a carrier (it can haul cars itself) under MC-241938.

  • Authority was taken away in May 2025

    Authority revoked on May 12, 2025. It is active again now. The usual cause is lapsed insurance — ask for a current certificate of insurance.

  • Liability insurance on file

    $1,000,000 of liability coverage is filed with FMCSA (required minimum: $750,000).

  • Cargo insurance not filed with FMCSA

    Federal rules don't require most carriers to file cargo coverage, so this is common. Ask for a certificate of insurance showing cargo coverage above your car's value.

  • Insurance lapsed 1 time in the last 2 years

    A policy or bond was cancelled with no new one in place right away — usually over unpaid premiums. Coverage is on file now; see the insurance history below.

  • No safety rating

    FMCSA has never audited this carrier. That is normal — most carriers are never rated.

  • In business for 35 years

    Registered with FMCSA since April 1991.

  • 24 roadside inspections, out-of-service rate normal

    Vehicles were put out of service in 0% of inspections (national average 22.26%), drivers in 4.2% (national average 6.67%).

  • 3 reported crashes in the last 24 months

    0 with injuries, 0 fatal, across a fleet of 23 trucks. Crash reports don't say who was at fault.

Company details

Company

Legal name
Dixon Auto Transport Inc
Business type
Authorized for hire
Company officers
Carrie Shafer
Process agent (BOC-3)
Truck Process Agents Of America, Inc. — Fargo, ND
USDOT issued
Apr 19, 1991
Last MCS-150 update
Apr 13, 2026

Operations

Operation
Interstate (can cross state lines)
Cargo it hauls
Motor vehicles
Trucks
23 power units
Drivers
19 (19 with a CDL)
Miles driven a year
2,403,160 (2025)
Hazardous materials
Yes, registered to carry hazmat

Safety record, last 24 months

24Roadside inspections
0%Vehicle out-of-service rate
National average 22.26%
4.2%Driver out-of-service rate
National average 6.67%
3Crashes
0 with injuries · 0 fatal

Roadside inspections

Police and state inspectors stop trucks to check the vehicle and the driver. Out of service means a problem serious enough to stop the truck or driver on the spot.

DateStateInspectionViolationsOut of service
Aug 31, 2026FLWalk-around (II)1No
Aug 25, 2026FLFull (Level I)1No
Aug 12, 2026FLDriver only (III)0No
Jul 23, 2026FLDriver only (III)4No
Jun 22, 2026ALDriver only (III)2No
Jun 16, 2026LADriver only (III)2No
Jun 3, 2026TXWalk-around (II)3No
Feb 10, 2026FLDriver only (III)0No
Jan 17, 2026FLDriver only (III)3Driver
Dec 30, 2025TXWalk-around (II)4No
Sep 25, 2025FLDriver only (III)1No
Sep 1, 2025TXWalk-around (II)1No
Aug 14, 2025GADriver only (III)4No
Jul 29, 2025FLDriver only (III)0No
Jun 30, 2025GADriver only (III)1No
Jun 18, 2025TXWalk-around (II)4No
May 14, 2025FLDriver only (III)0No
May 13, 2025ALWalk-around (II)1No
Feb 18, 2025FLDriver only (III)2No
Feb 3, 2025GADriver only (III)3No
Jan 29, 2025FLWalk-around (II)6No
Nov 26, 2024FLDriver only (III)1No
Oct 30, 2024LADriver only (III)3No
Oct 23, 2024TXDriver only (III)0No

Crashes

Crashes reported by state police. The reports don't say who was at fault.

DateWhereInjuriesDeathsVehicle towed
May 28, 2026Lake Charles, LA00Yes
May 11, 2025Shorter, AL00Yes
Nov 19, 2024Rural, LA00Yes

Insurance and bonds

On file now

TypeInsurerPolicyLimitEffective
Liability (BIPD)Great West Casualty CoGRT20736A$1,000,000May 1, 2024
Liability (BIPD)Great West Casualty CoGRT20736A$1,000,000May 1, 2024

Ask the company for a certificate of insurance and check that the insurer and policy number match this table.

Past policies

Earlier filings, newest first. Cancelled, no replacement means coverage stopped with no new policy in place — a gap in insurance.

TypeInsurerFromUntilHow it ended
Liability (BIPD)Northland Insurance CompanyMay 1, 2018May 1, 2024Replaced by a new policy
Liability (BIPD)Great Divide Insurance CompanyMay 1, 2017May 1, 2018Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Carolina Casualty Insurance Co.May 1, 2016May 1, 2017Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Carolina Casualty Insurance Co.May 1, 2015May 1, 2016Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Carolina Casualty Insurance Co.May 1, 2014May 1, 2015Cancelled, another policy took over
Broker surety bond (BMC-84)American Alternative Insurance CorporationOct 1, 2013Feb 6, 2026Cancelled, no replacement
Broker surety bond (BMC-84)American Alternative Insurance CorporationJul 2, 2013Oct 1, 2013Replaced by a new policy
Liability (BIPD)Carolina Casualty Insurance Co.May 1, 2013May 1, 2014Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Carolina Casualty Insurance Co.May 1, 2012May 1, 2013Cancelled, another policy took over
Broker surety bond (BMC-84)American Alternative Insurance CorporationFeb 2, 2012Aug 5, 2013Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Castlepoint National Insurance CoMay 1, 2011May 1, 2012Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)State National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2010May 1, 2011Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoState National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2010May 1, 2011Cancelled
Liability (BIPD)State National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2009May 1, 2010Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoState National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2009May 1, 2010Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)State National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2008May 1, 2009Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoState National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2008May 1, 2009Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)State National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2007May 1, 2008Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoState National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2007May 1, 2008Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)State National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2006May 1, 2007Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoState National Insurance Co., Inc.May 1, 2006May 1, 2007Cancelled, another policy took over
Broker surety bond (BMC-84)Navigators Insurance CompanyFeb 2, 2006Feb 2, 2012Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Lincoln General Insurance CompanyMay 1, 2005May 1, 2006Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoLincoln General Insurance CompanyMay 1, 2005May 1, 2006Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Lincoln General Insurance CompanyMay 1, 2004May 1, 2005Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoLincoln General Insurance CompanyMay 1, 2004May 1, 2005Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Lincoln General Insurance CompanyMay 1, 2003May 1, 2004Replaced by a new policy
CargoLincoln General Insurance CompanyMay 1, 2003May 1, 2004Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)United States Fidelity & Guaranty Co.May 1, 2002May 1, 2003Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoUnited States Fidelity & Guaranty Co.May 1, 2002May 1, 2003Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Fidelity & Guaranty Insurance UnderwritersMay 1, 2001Jun 6, 2002Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoFidelity & Guaranty Insurance UnderwritersMay 1, 2001Jun 6, 2002Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Fidelity & Guaranty Insurance UnderwritersMay 1, 2000Jul 13, 2001Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoFidelity & Guaranty Insurance UnderwritersMay 1, 2000Jul 13, 2001Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Fidelity & Guaranty Insurance UnderwritersMay 1, 2000May 1, 2000Replaced by a new policy
Broker surety bond (BMC-84)State Farm Fire And Casualty CompanyDec 13, 1999Feb 2, 2006Cancelled, another policy took over
CargoRli Insurance CompanyNov 1, 1998Jun 5, 2000Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Rli Insurance CompanyJan 1, 1998Jun 5, 2000Cancelled, another policy took over
Liability (BIPD)Fire & Casualty Insurance Co. Of ConnecticutApr 1, 1996Jan 1, 1998Replaced by a new policy
CargoLumbermens Mutual Casualty Co.Apr 15, 1993Nov 1, 1998Replaced by a new policy
Liability (BIPD)Fire & Casualty Insurance Co. Of ConnecticutApr 15, 1993Jan 1, 1998Replaced by a new policy

Operating authority history

Every change FMCSA recorded to the company's license to operate, newest first.

  • Granted or reinstated
  • Warning, resolved
  • Revoked or suspended
  • Other
  1. Authority revoked Broker
  2. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 30, 2018 — the company kept its authority.

  3. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 27, 2017 — the company kept its authority.

  4. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 28, 2016 — the company kept its authority.

  5. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 30, 2015 — the company kept its authority.

  6. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 25, 2014 — the company kept its authority.

  7. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 29, 2013 — the company kept its authority.

  8. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on May 1, 2012 — the company kept its authority.

  9. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on May 2, 2011 — the company kept its authority.

  10. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 29, 2010 — the company kept its authority.

  11. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on May 1, 2009 — the company kept its authority.

  12. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on May 1, 2008 — the company kept its authority.

  13. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 30, 2007 — the company kept its authority.

  14. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 28, 2006 — the company kept its authority.

  15. Revocation notice Broker

    Resolved on Feb 2, 2006 — the company kept its authority.

  16. Revocation notice resolved Broker
  17. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Apr 29, 2005 — the company kept its authority.

  18. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on May 6, 2004 — the company kept its authority.

  19. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on Jul 31, 2000 — the company kept its authority.

  20. Authority granted Broker
  21. Revocation notice Carrier

    Resolved on May 19, 1992 — the company kept its authority.

  22. Authority granted Carrier
  23. Authority granted Carrier
  24. Revocation notice resolved Carrier

Source: FMCSA records published by the U.S. Department of Transportation, checked 23 hours ago. Authority and insurance come from Motus, FMCSA's current registration system. This report reflects public federal data only; it is not an endorsement or a guarantee of service.

What the lookup checks

Eight things to know before you hand over your keys

Every interstate car shipping company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The lookup reads that record and flags what matters to you as a customer.

  1. USDOT status

    Every company that moves vehicles across state lines needs an active USDOT number. Inactive means it has stopped operating or was shut down.

  2. Operating authority (MC number)

    Federal permission to ship cars for pay. Carriers hold carrier authority; brokers hold broker authority. No active authority, no legal interstate shipping.

  3. Liability insurance

    Carriers must keep at least $750,000 of liability coverage on file with the FMCSA. Most auto haulers carry $1,000,000.

  4. Broker bond

    Brokers must file a $75,000 surety bond or trust fund. It protects customers and carriers if the broker doesn't pay.

  5. Out-of-service orders

    An FMCSA order to stop operating — after failed safety audits, unpaid fines or an imminent hazard.

  6. Safety rating and crashes

    Satisfactory, Conditional or Unsatisfactory after an FMCSA audit, plus crashes reported in the last 24 months.

  7. Time in business

    Scammers rarely keep a name for long. A registration only weeks or months old deserves extra caution.

  8. Carrier or broker

    Whether the company hauls your car itself or books a partner carrier — and whether it is actually registered to carry vehicles.

Beyond the records

Car shipping scam red flags

A clean FMCSA record is the minimum. These warning signs matter just as much — most car shipping complaints start with one of them.

  • A quote far below everyone else's. Lowball quotes get raised after booking or sit with no carrier for weeks. Compare with our car shipping cost calculator.
  • A big deposit by wire, Zelle or gift card. Reputable companies take $0–$250 upfront, usually by card, and the rest at pickup or delivery.
  • A name that doesn't match the record. The legal name or DBA on the FMCSA record should match the website, the contract and the truck.
  • "Guaranteed" pickup dates from a broker. A broker can't promise a date until a carrier is assigned — get the date in writing and ask who the carrier is.
  • No written contract or Bill of Lading. Inspect the car with the driver and sign the Bill of Lading at pickup and delivery — our car shipping checklist has a printable inspection form.

FAQ

Checking a car shipping company

Want companies that already passed these checks? Browse verified companies by state.

How do I check if a car shipping company is legit?

Look up its USDOT or MC number. A legitimate company has an active USDOT number, active operating authority (MC) as a carrier or broker, and insurance or a broker bond on file with the FMCSA. Then make sure the name on the record matches the company you are talking to, and be wary of any company registered in the last few months that asks for a large deposit.

What is the difference between a USDOT number and an MC number?

The USDOT number identifies the company and tracks its safety record, inspections and crashes. The MC number is its operating authority — federal permission to transport vehicles for pay across state lines. An interstate car shipping company needs both, and both must be active.

Where do I find a company's USDOT or MC number?

Licensed companies show them on their website (usually in the footer), in quotes and contracts, on the Bill of Lading and on the side of their trucks. If a company won't give you its USDOT or MC number, don't book with it.

Is it a red flag if the company is a broker?

No. Most online car shipping companies are brokers: they book your car with a partner carrier that runs the route. A legitimate broker has active broker authority and a $75,000 bond on file. Ask which carrier will haul your car and check that carrier too.

What insurance must a car shipping company have?

Interstate carriers must file at least $750,000 of liability insurance with the FMCSA (many auto haulers carry $1,000,000). Brokers must file a $75,000 surety bond or trust fund. Cargo insurance — the policy that pays for damage to your car — often isn't filed with the FMCSA, so ask for a certificate of insurance and check that the cargo limit covers your car's value.

What does "out of service" mean?

An out-of-service order is an FMCSA order to stop operating immediately, usually after an unsatisfactory safety rating, unpaid fines or an imminent hazard. A company under an active order must not move your car.

Where does this data come from and how current is it?

From the FMCSA's own records, published daily by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Results are refreshed at least every 12 hours. For a final check before you pay, you can also open the company's FMCSA SAFER snapshot from the report.