In recent years, there has been a worrying increase in cases where criminal gangs pose as legitimate transport companies, offering to ship a car abroad — but in fact, they are stealing the vehicle. This container-related vehicle crime has become more organised and audacious, with stolen cars hidden inside shipping containers or mis declared to evade detection.
How Big Is the Problem — and Why It’s Growing
 In the UK, nearly 130,000 cars were reported stolen in the year to March 2024.
 Freight crime in the UK cost hauliers £111.5 million in 2024, with container theft forming a growing proportion.
 According to a 2025 cargo-theft report from BSI & TT-Club, 7% of recorded cargo-theft incidents involve theft from containers or
trailers.
 Only fewer than 5 in every 100,000 containers leaving Britain are inspected, making it attractive for criminals to exploit.
 Investigations have revealed that stolen vehicles are increasingly hidden alongside other cargo to ship a car overseas without detection.
These figures show that while not all containers are compromised, the risk is significant — particularly for those preparing to ship a car internationally.
Recent Real-World Cases
 In Essex, police recovered two containers at Tilbury Port, each containing four hidden cars.
 Luxury vehicles, including high-end SUVs and classic cars, have been stolen and exported to destinations such as the Middle East and Africa.
 Organised gangs are using sophisticated methods, including keyless- entry spoofing and signal jammers, to make rapid theft and shipment
possible.
 Insurance reporting shows that only around 2% of vehicle theft cases lead to conviction, highlighting the difficulty of recovering stolen
vehicles.
These cases demonstrate the growing sophistication of criminals and the importance of vigilance when someone comes to collect your car to ship a car.
How the Scam Works Criminals usually:
1. Pose as representatives from a reputable shipping company.
2. Arrive in branded or plain vehicles with forged paperwork.
3. Rush the handover to prevent questions.
4. Load the car into a container and leave, sometimes claiming it’s part of an urgent shipment.
By the time the victim realises the vehicle is missing, it may already have been shipped overseas or dismantled.
Warning Signs to Watch For
 Last-minute schedule changes – always verify with the company using official contacts.
 Early or unexpected arrival – legitimate companies rarely arrive without prior confirmation.
 No ID or vague paperwork – insist on identification and official collection notes.
 Pressure to hand over the car quickly – a classic tactic used by fraudsters.
 No formal confirmation from the shipping company – never rely solely on a text or WhatsApp message.
How to Verify a Legitimate Collection
Before allowing anyone to collect your car to ship a car, follow these steps:
1. Ask for the driver’s full name and ID and confirm with the shipping company.
2. Check the transporter vehicle registration against the company’s records.
3. Request an official collection note including logo, booking reference, and vehicle details.
4. Call the shipping office while the driver is present using official numbers.
5. Take photographs of the transporter, driver, and handover.
6. Confirm any seals on containers or carriers before release.
7. Trust your instincts – if anything feels off, halt the handover.
Following these steps can dramatically reduce the risk of falling victim to these scams, especially when you are about to ship a car internationally or within Europe.
Why Awareness Matters
The demand to ship a car has grown significantly, especially for luxury and classic vehicles. Criminals are aware of this trend and are increasingly targeting private sellers and customers preparing for international transport. By remaining vigilant, insisting on proper documentation, and verifying everything before handing over your vehicle, you can protect yourself. A legitimate shipping company expects this level of scrutiny and will support you in confirming all details.
Final Thoughts
As these scams become increasingly sophisticated, awareness is your best defence. Always verify who you are dealing with, never rush the handover process, and remain wary of last-minute changes. A trustworthy shipping company will support every step of your verification
process. If in doubt—stop the collection and call the company directly. It’s far better to delay the shipment than to lose your vehicle permanently.
Trans Global Logistics UK Limited, International Shipping & Logistics Company with 30 years of experience, will be able to offers several services for your Yacht and Boat Transport / Customs Clearance / Import and UK Vehicle Registration to confidently support your shipment in either Import or Export for any type of equipment. Contact us at Trans Global Logistics UK Limited – bizdev@tglog.co.uk – phone 07833 410 281 www.tglog.co.uk