Most shipping quotes you receive are broker quotes — an estimate of what a carrier might accept on a load board, not a booked truck. That is why the price “moves” after you commit. Protect yourself:
- Ask whether the quote is a booked carrier or a load-board posting.
- Get the carrier's MC number and insurance certificate before pickup day.
- For auction pickups, share the buyer number and yard hours — missed gate appointments become storage fees on your invoice.