How Auto Transport Works
The vehicle shipping industry has two key players: brokers and carriers. Understanding how they work together helps you make an informed decision and get the best possible rate.
Brokers vs. Carriers
Two distinct roles in the auto transport industry
Auto Transport Broker
A broker is a licensed intermediary that connects customers with carriers. Brokers do not own trucks or physically transport vehicles. Instead, they maintain relationships with thousands of carriers and use load boards, dispatch networks, and — in our case — AI-powered marketplaces to find the best carrier for your specific shipment.
- Access to thousands of carriers and routes
- Competitive pricing through carrier competition
- Handles all logistics and coordination
- Provides customer service throughout the shipment
- Licensed by the FMCSA with a broker authority (MC number)
Auto Transport Carrier
A carrier is the company that owns the trucks and physically moves your vehicle. Carriers operate specific routes and have a limited number of spots on each truck (typically 7-10 for open carriers, 2-6 for enclosed). Carriers work with multiple brokers to fill their trucks and avoid running empty.
- Owns and operates the transport trucks
- Employs the drivers who handle your vehicle
- Carries the required cargo insurance
- Operates on fixed routes between regions
- Licensed by the FMCSA with carrier authority (MC and DOT numbers)
Why Use a Broker?
The advantages of working with a licensed auto transport broker
Better Rates
Brokers have access to thousands of carriers competing for your load. This competition drives prices down. A single carrier can only offer their own rate.
Wider Network
Individual carriers operate on limited routes. A broker scans all available carriers nationwide to find one heading your way, even on less popular routes.
Vetted Carriers
Reputable brokers screen carriers for proper licensing, active insurance, safety records, and customer feedback before assigning your vehicle.
Accountability
Your broker is your single point of contact and advocate. If issues arise during transit, your broker mediates between you and the carrier on your behalf.
American Auto Shipping's Role
A licensed broker powered by AI technology
American Auto Shipping operates as a licensed auto transport broker (FMCSA-authorized). We do not own trucks or employ drivers. Instead, we maintain one of the largest vetted carrier networks in the industry and use proprietary AI technology to match your vehicle with the best available carrier.
When you request a quote, our AI marketplace scans thousands of carriers' active routes in real time, identifying those who have open spots on trucks heading in your direction. By filling empty spots on trucks that are already scheduled on your route, we eliminate deadhead miles and pass the savings on to you.
Every carrier in our network is verified for FMCSA authority, active insurance coverage, satisfactory safety ratings, and positive customer feedback. We continuously monitor carrier performance and remove any that fall below our standards.
From the moment you request a quote through final delivery, your dedicated concierge manages every detail — carrier assignment, pickup scheduling, transit updates, and delivery coordination. You always have a real person to call.
How We Protect You
- FMCSA-licensed broker with active MC authority
- Every carrier verified for licensing and insurance
- Carrier safety records checked against FMCSA database
- Customer feedback monitoring for all carriers
- Dedicated concierge assigned to every shipment
- Assistance with damage claims if issues arise
- 27+ years of industry experience
- Over 235,000+ vehicles shipped successfully
BBB A+ Rated
Accredited Business
27+ Years
In Business Since 1999
235K+ Vehicles
Successfully Shipped
Licensed & Insured
FMCSA Registered
Related Resources
Brokers vs. Carriers
In-depth comparison to help you choose wisely
Open Auto Transport
The most popular and affordable shipping method
Enclosed Auto Transport
Premium protection for high-value vehicles
Shipping Rate Calculator
Get an instant estimate for your route
Auto Shipping FAQ
Answers to the most common shipping questions