Curbstoning – a $17 Bn underground economy

A map indicating the lost sales figures and total number of curbstoners in the USA

A map indicating the lost sales figures and total number of curbstoners in the USA

For the first time ever, the severity and cost of curbstoning is quantified – at over $17 Bn in the USA.  Take a look at this interactive map showing the total value and magnitude of individuals who are selling 3 or more vehicles from the same phone number on Craigslist.  Data was taken from March 15 – June 15, 2013.  Zoom in on your area, it is a very detailed map.

This affects all aspects of the economy:

  • For DMV: lost titling fees
  • For Taxation: lost income, corporate tax
  • For Car Dealers: lost business to an illegal competitor
  • For Insurance Agencies: recycling vehicles from staged car accidents
  • For Consumers: unsafe and worthless vehicles