How to Avoid Moving Company Scams During Your Next Move
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Avoid any company that demands a large cash deposit upfront or provides a quote without seeing your actual inventory.
Always verify a mover's USDOT number through the FMCSA database before signing any service agreements.
Insist on a binding estimate to ensure the price you see at booking is the price you pay at your final destination.
Moving scams often start with an estimate that seems too good to be true. You see a low price, you book the date, and you think the hard part is over. Then, the day of your move arrives, and the total cost suddenly spikes by thousands of dollars.
Learning how to avoid moving company scams comes down to knowing what red flags look like before you hand over your keys. Scammers rely on pressure tactics and vague contracts to take advantage of people during a high stress life transition.
What are the warning signs of a moving scam?
Most illegitimate movers share the same habits. They might have a website with no physical address, or they refuse to provide a copy of their license. If a company wants to conduct your entire assessment over the phone without seeing your rooms or closets, walk away.
Professional movers need to calculate the weight and volume of your specific household goods. Someone giving you a flat rate over a quick phone call is likely setting a trap. They often use lowball offers to get their foot in the door, only to hold your belongings hostage until you pay the inflated balance.
Checking for licensing and registration
You should never hire a company without first checking their credentials. The FMCSA maintains an online database where you can verify if a mover is registered to operate interstate. If a company hesitates when you ask for their USDOT number, that is a major red flag.
The weight of your belongings
Some scammers use a practice called weight bumping. They intentionally inflate the weight of your shipment to charge you more than the actual value of the service. You have the right to be present when your shipment is weighed and you can request a reweigh if the numbers do not add up.
If you are just starting your search, you can verify a mover's license to ensure they are a legitimate carrier. Once you have a shortlist of vetted companies, you can try our moving cost calculator to see if their estimates fall within a realistic range for your route.
How do I protect myself from unexpected fees?
When you receive a quote, ask specifically if it is a binding estimate. Under a binding estimate, you pay exactly the quoted price at delivery, regardless of the shipment's actual weight. This protection holds firm unless you choose to add new services after the contract is signed.
Estimate Type
Price Guarantee
Best For
Binding Estimate
Fixed price at delivery
Budget conscious planning
Non-Binding Estimate
Based on actual weight
Flexible budgets
Binding Not-to-Exceed
Maximum price limit
Most household moves
Inventory-based Quote
Accurate item count
Large scale relocations
Be wary of any company that demands a large cash deposit before they start the work. Legitimate companies might ask for a small booking fee, but they typically expect full payment only when your items arrive at your new home. Always demand a detailed inventory list attached to your paperwork.
Understanding your documentation
Before the trucks arrive, your mover must provide you with two FMCSA publications titled Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and Ready to Move. These documents outline exactly what a company can and cannot do during your move. If a company skips this step, they are likely cutting corners in other areas too.
Why do moving quotes change after booking?
Companies sometimes claim that their initial quote was just an estimate based on a smaller load than what you actually have. This is why a professional survey of your home is necessary. If you add items to the truck that were not on the original list, the price will naturally rise.
The problem arises when companies claim items were larger or heavier than they actually are to drive up costs. You can prevent this by keeping a copy of your own inventory list. If a mover tries to charge for packing supplies you did not request, point to your contract.
Keeping your records safe
Keep all correspondence and estimates in a folder throughout the entire moving process. Having a written record helps if a dispute occurs regarding the final invoice. Never pay for "extra" services on the day of the move without getting a written change order that spells out the new costs clearly.
How do I find a reliable moving company?
Start your search by asking for referrals from friends or local real estate agents who move clients often. Check the FMCSA records for complaints, but also consider how they handle your questions during the interview phase. A professional company will be happy to explain their insurance coverage and their process for handling claims.
Always insist on a written estimate and read the fine print regarding insurance liability and delivery windows before you hand over any payment.
Comparing company reputations
Look for companies that have a long history of operation in your area. Newer companies might change names frequently to hide a trail of negative reviews. If you are still feeling uncertain about a specific company, you can browse more cost guides to see what a fair price should look like for your specific move size.
While movers can charge for additional services, they cannot hold your goods hostage simply because you refuse to pay an unexplained extra fee that exceeds the binding estimate. You should document all interactions and contact the FMCSA if a company threatens to keep your belongings to extort more payment.
Is it safer to use a moving broker or a carrier?
A carrier owns the trucks and employs the crew, while a broker simply sells your move to a third party. Dealing directly with a carrier is often safer because you know exactly who is handling your goods. If you choose a broker, ask for the name of the actual carrier they plan to assign to your move.
What happens if my items are damaged during the move?
You have the right to file a claim if your items are damaged. Before you sign off on the delivery, inspect your boxes and furniture. Note any damage on the delivery receipt, as this makes the claims process much easier to manage later on.
Moving is a complex process, but it becomes much safer when you know your rights. Take the time to verify every license and read every line of your contract. Checking those details now will save you from a major headache on moving day.
