When shipping your vehicle across the country, price and timing aren’t the only things that matter. How and when you pay for your shipment can make a major difference in your overall experience.
At Bigfella Auto Express, we’ve seen firsthand how payment confusion can cause frustration — and even lead to scams or poor service when working with the wrong company. That’s why we’re breaking down the different payment models used in the auto transport industry, the risks involved, and how we do things differently to keep your shipment secure.
Most brokers and carriers follow one of these payment approaches:
This is the most traditional setup. The broker collects a small deposit upfront (usually 10–20%), and the remaining balance is paid in cash or certified funds to the driver at delivery.
Pros:
Some customers prefer to hold the balance until the vehicle arrives.
Cons:
You must meet the driver in person with cash, Zelle, or a money order — which can be inconvenient or unsafe.
Disputes are harder to resolve if issues arise during transit.
No central record of the full payment, since it's split between the broker and driver.
Some brokers ask for the entire transport fee at the time of booking.
Pros:
One-and-done payment.
Cons:
Higher risk if the broker cancels, assigns a poor carrier, or disappears.
You may not know who’s actually transporting your car when you pay.
No flexibility if pickup is delayed or rerouted.
We use a secure, card-based payment system that gives you clarity and control:
20% deposit is due after a carrier has been assigned — not before.
The remaining 80% is automatically charged when the carrier picks up the vehicle, using the same card on file.
No cash, no awkward exchanges at delivery, and no hidden fees.
We believe in transparent pricing and clear communication, so you always know where your money is going and when.
💡 Why we don’t use cash-on-delivery: We’ve seen too many customers left chasing down drivers, dealing with poor communication, or being surprised by unexpected charges. Our model keeps everything digital and trackable.
If you're not careful, these are the risks of working with brokers who don’t have strong systems in place:
Fraud or scams from unverified carriers
Delayed pickups if payment logistics fall through
Damage disputes with no support from the broker
No protection for your funds if something goes wrong
When is the deposit due?
How is the remaining balance paid?
Do I have to pay the driver directly?
Is my payment protected or traceable?
What happens if the driver is late or doesn't show?
If a company can’t answer these clearly, proceed with caution.
We’ve designed our system to be secure, simple, and fair:
We only ask for a deposit once a carrier is confirmed.
Our card processing is protected through a secure portal — no cash, no wires.
You’ll always receive clear communication about what to expect, when to pay, and how your vehicle is being handled.
And most importantly, you stay in control of your shipment.
Auto transport doesn’t have to be complicated — but the way your payment is handled can make or break your experience. At Bigfella Auto Express, we believe in honesty, security, and professionalism from start to finish.
Have questions about how your shipment will be billed or want a transparent quote?
👉 Visit www.bigfellaautoexpress.com or call us directly at 346-536-8700.