For many car owners, shipping a vehicle—whether across the country or just a few states over—has always come with a bit of worry. But recently, that worry has turned into a legitimate concern as reports of vehicles being stolen during transport have surged. To better understand what’s happening and how to avoid becoming a victim, we spoke with Steve Yariv, founder and owner of Dealers Choice Auto Transport, a seasoned expert in the automotive shipping world.
Why Reputation—and Trust—Matters Most
Yariv confirmed that the spike in transport thefts is very real, and it prompted him to add more layers of security than ever before to protect his customers and their vehicles. Yariv emphasized that his team has built relationships with trusted drivers and carriers over the years, and they do extensive due diligence before partnering with anyone. That high level of care and caution—combined with working exclusively with reputable, insured, and bonded carriers—has been crucial to keeping their clients’ vehicles safe.
The Alarming Trend of Transport Theft
Unfortunately, not every transport story ends so smoothly. As highlighted in a recent Miami News 7 (WSVN) report, organized crime rings have been exploiting the vehicle shipping process, posing as legitimate brokers and dispatchers. Once they gain control of the shipping order, they manipulate transport details, rerouting vehicles to fraudulent destinations where they are unloaded and vanish into the black market.
In one case, a 2020 Rolls-Royce being transported from Miami Beach to Michigan disappeared entirely. The car’s owner, Detroit-area resident Nader Eldamouni, told 7News, “The car is a $300,000 car, Rolls-Royce, gone.”
Detectives investigating the case uncovered an alarming trend where these scammers alter shipping paperwork, making everything look legitimate. Surveillance footage even showed suspects tailing transport trucks, ready to swoop in and steal the vehicles the moment they arrived at unauthorized drop-off points.
The investigation ultimately led to the arrest of three men who now face charges including grand theft, dealing in stolen property, and conspiracy to commit organized fraud. Police caught them during a sting operation, watching as they paid a truck driver for the delivery of a stolen Lamborghini Urus.
Scammers Getting Smarter with Fake Paperwork
Yariv also warned that these criminals are getting increasingly sophisticated, creating paperwork so convincing that even seasoned drivers could be fooled. “This is why working with a trusted, verified transport company is non-negotiable,” Yariv said. “If you’re just looking for the cheapest option or you rush into booking without checking credentials, you’re rolling the dice.”
High-End Cars Are Prime Targets
While any vehicle could be targeted, it’s no surprise that luxury and exotic cars top the list for thieves. According to Miami Beach Police, recent recoveries include a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, a Lamborghini Urus, and an Audi R8. These cars are fast money for criminals, either flipped quickly or shipped overseas for resale.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Car
Both Yariv and law enforcement recommend several proactive steps for owners:
- Use a reputable, well-reviewed transport company that is fully registered, bonded, and insured.
- Install a GPS tracker in your vehicle so you can monitor its location in real time.
- Verify transport details directly with the carrier—not just with a broker or dispatcher.
- Demand clear, consistent paperwork and compare every document at each stage of the process.
As Miami Beach Police spokesperson Christopher Bess told 7News, “Do your very best to ensure that your assets are protected.”
A Changing Industry
The vehicle transport industry is facing a new wave of challenges, and it’s clear that trust, reputation, and diligence are more important than ever. Yariv believes that technology, stricter regulations, and better consumer education will all play a role in combating these crimes. But until then, the best defense is awareness and knowing exactly who you’re handing your keys to.