A familiar company name is not enough.
Fraudsters can misuse a legitimate carrier’s USDOT number or impersonate a broker. Verify who is communicating with you, not just whether a company exists. A logo, email signature, or insurance certificate alone does not establish identity.
Use an independent contact channel.
Compare the supplied company phone number with FMCSA’s SAFER record. If they differ, call the independently listed number to confirm the person and shipment. Resolve missing or inconsistent details before proceeding.
Pause when the instructions change.
Unexpected requests to use another company’s identity, unexplained destinations, or unusually generous rates warrant verification. Independently check questionable documents with the issuing company. Do not open suspicious links.
Protect payment and account information.
As a practical internal control, require a second person to approve changes to payment details. Confirm changes through an established contact rather than replying to the message that requested them. Limit access to shipment information to the people who need it.
If you suspect fraud.
Preserve correspondence and shipment records. Notify the actual companies involved, your insurer where applicable, and relevant authorities. FMCSA provides reporting options; suspected online crime can also be reported through FBI IC3.
Official guidance & reporting
General preparation guidance. Confirm shipment-specific requirements with your transportation provider.
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