What is a Moving Scam and Why Are They So Common?
Fraudulent moving companies exploit customers with moving scams by overcharging, stealing belongings, or disappearing with deposits. They prey on vulnerable people, especially during peak moving season, holding possessions hostage and demanding higher payments.
Why Consumers Are Vulnerable to Moving Scams
Consumers become victims of mover scams when they feel overwhelmed about their move. They skip doing a background check on the mover they picked online, so it’s easy to be scammed and exploited. Always verify the mover is legitimate with the Department of Transportation (DOT) or your state before you sign a contract, so you don’t become a victim of moving company scams.
Identifying the “Too Good to Be True” Estimate
A “too good to be true” moving estimate might be provided if a mover doesn’t inspect your belongings in person. Some movers promise below market rates, but may not include fees for services until the truck is unloaded, and then add surprise charges. Request a written contract that specifies all costs upfront. If they pressure you to pay in advance or don’t want to offer you a contract, they may be deceptive.
The 5 Most Common Moving Company Scams and Red Flags
Moving scams cost customers millions of dollars every year, exploiting their trust and using deceptive tactics. If you stay aware of these 5 common scams, you’ll avoid financial pitfalls:
1. The Bait-and-Switch Pricing Tactics
Some movers lure customers in using low over-the-phone estimates, then drastically increase their prices on moving day, when your boxes are already loaded on the truck. They pressure you to pay because they know you don’t want your move disrupted.
2. The Hostage-Goods Scenario
During this moving company rip off, the crew loads your belongings on the truck, arrives at your destination, and then claims the move will cost more than the written or verbal estimate. They refuse to unload the truck, holding your goods ransom until you pay.
3. Demanding Large, Upfront Cash Deposits
Underhanded operators may insist on large cash deposits before any work begins, making it easy for them to disappear or underperform, giving you no recourse. When you use a legitimate mover, they typically accept multiple payment methods and collect the balance of the moving costs after delivery.
4. The “Skinny” or Blank Contract Trap
A contract that’s partially blank allows the mover to add surprise fees or change the terms of the move later. When important details are vague or missing, like dates, rates, and services, you aren’t protected if disputes develop later.
5. Unlicensed Moving Brokers
Some movers operate as brokers, accepting bookings and requiring payment upfront, then hand off your move to unlicensed and uninsured subcontractors that you’ve never met or spoken with.
Due Diligence Checklist: Vetting Potential Movers
Compare more than prices when you’re selecting a moving company. Carefully vetting moving companies protects your possessions. Use this handy checklist as a guide to check out movers:
Check Credentials: Verifying U.S. DOT and State Licensing
If you’re planning an interstate move, or one that crosses state lines, movers should have a U.S. DOT number, which proves they’re registered with federal authorities. State licensing is also important. If you both can be verified, you aren’t trusting your move to unregulated movers.
Demand 3 Written, On-Site Estimates
Never accept a quote that’s only done by phone because it could have hidden fees or inflated charges later. Trustworthy movers will visit your home and provide a written estimate based on the volume and weight of your belongings. If you ask for 3 on-site cost estimates, you’ll notice any potential red flags.
Investigate Reputation and Complaints
Before you sign a moving contract, research the company’s reputation through the Better Business Bureau and third-party reviews, and search with keywords like “moving scams” to see if their name appears. Look for patterns of complaints. If reviews show a consistent history of satisfied customers, there’s a strong chance the mover is reliable.
Verify Physical Presence
Legitimate movers use branded trucks and have a local office address that you can verify. This makes it easier to resolve any issues later. Moving companies that only have a P.O. box and no visible branding might not be legitimate businesses or could be potential scammers.
Protecting Your Wallet and Your Contract
A clear moving contract with transparent terms that specifies services that will be included in your move will prevent moving company rip offs.
Know Your Quote Type: Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates
A binding estimate will lock in your rate because the mover has a detailed inventory of your belongings, which should prevent surprise charges when you accept delivery. Movers who don’t offer binding quotes may inflate your bill later.
Insist on Pricing Based on Weight, Not Cubic Feet
Ensure all items and fees are listed on your contract. Scammers will undervalue space and then hike up fees, so verify the weight of your belongings upfront.
Never Sign Incomplete Paperwork
Review every line on your contract, including dates, and ensure fees are transparent before you sign it. Ensure no blank spots or vague language are included.
Document Everything: Pictures, Correspondence, and Contract Copies
Take photographs of your items’ condition and the truck before loading to prove potential damage claims. Keep emails, texts, and duplicate contracts for disputes or insurance filings.
How and Where to Report Fraud
File complaints with FMCSA for interstate issues, U.S. DOT for carrier violations, and FTC for other scams to request investigations. Provide evidence promptly
FAQS
How far in advance should I start looking for a reputable mover?
Begin your search for a reputable mover about 2 months in advance so you have time to vet moving companies, get home estimates, and schedule your move without experiencing last-minute stress. You may get a better rate if you schedule your move early.
How can I check if a moving company is registered with the U.S. DOT?
You can verify a moving company’s U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) registration on the FMCSA website. It will show if it is licensed, insurance coverage, complaint records, and its safety history. If no history appears, don’t hire them.
If a mover shows up in a rented or unbranded truck, is that an immediate red flag?
Legitimate, reliable movers usually have branded trucks with their business logo and
U. S. DOT markings on them. If they use an unmarked truck or a U-Haul, and they use subcontracted workers, it increases the chance of moving delays, lack of insurance, or damaged goods. Verify they’re an established business before allowing them to move your possessions.
