How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Search the official FMCSA database to see if a mover has a history of formal complaints or license issues.
Check the Better Business Bureau for trends in customer service rather than focusing on a single negative review.
Always verify that your mover is a carrier rather than a broker to avoid hidden fees and accountability gaps.
You probably feel a bit nervous about handing your furniture over to a stranger. Moving is already stressful enough without the added fear of a company holding your items hostage for extra cash. Learning how to find moving company complaints is the most effective way to protect yourself from predatory business practices.
Most people skip the research phase because it seems tedious. You might look at a star rating on a social media platform and assume that is enough. That is a dangerous mistake. Digging into official federal records takes only fifteen minutes and tells you far more than an anonymous review ever will.
How can you verify a mover through government databases?
The most reliable source for mover information is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration or FMCSA. This agency tracks every registered interstate mover in the country. You can verify a mover's license by entering their USDOT number into their official search portal.
Understanding the safety and complaint history
When you search for a company, the database shows you their insurance status and whether they are authorized to operate. Look specifically for the section detailing complaint history. If a company has dozens of consumer complaints regarding price hikes or damaged goods, consider that a massive warning sign.
Why brokers differ from carriers
A moving broker arranges your move but does not do the physical moving itself. You need to know if you are hiring a carrier or a broker. Federal law requires brokers to disclose their status before you book a move. If a company acts mysterious about who is actually driving the truck, walk away immediately.
All interstate household goods movers are legally required to participate in an arbitration program to resolve disputes over loss, damage, or disputed charges, and must summarize this program in writing before you sign the bill of lading.
Where can you find honest customer reviews online?
While federal databases track legal issues, third party review sites provide a window into the daily customer experience. Do not rely on a company website for testimonials because they only post what makes them look good. Seek out platforms where the company cannot delete critical feedback.
Analyzing trends instead of star ratings
A single one star review might be from a disgruntled person who refused to follow the rules. However, twenty one star reviews claiming the same issue about hidden fees indicate a pattern. Look for specific keywords like hostage, bait and switch, or broken items.
Comparing moving service options
Moving costs vary widely based on distance and volume. You should compare estimates to ensure you are paying a fair market rate. Use the table below to understand common price ranges for interstate moves based on size.
Home Size
Average Distance
Estimated Price Range
Time Required
Studio Apartment
500 Miles
$1,500 to $2,500
2 to 4 Days
2 Bedroom Home
1,000 Miles
$3,500 to $5,000
4 to 7 Days
3 Bedroom Home
1,500 Miles
$5,500 to $8,000
7 to 10 Days
4 Bedroom Home
2,000 Miles
$9,000 to $12,000
10 to 14 Days
What should you demand before signing a contract?
Legitimate companies operate with full transparency. They will never pressure you to sign a contract without providing essential documentation. If a sales representative refuses to send information in writing, stop the conversation right there.
Required federal publications
Before your move, an interstate mover is required to give you copies of two FMCSA publications. These are titled Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and Ready to Move. These documents outline exactly what a mover is allowed to do if your goods are lost or damaged.
Checking your quote for accuracy
You can try our moving cost calculator to see if your quote is in the right ballpark. If a company offers a price that seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is. Low quotes are often used to secure your deposit before the company claims extra items require a higher fee on moving day.
Why do moving quotes change after booking?
Many complaints stem from surprise costs found on the day of the move. While some price fluctuations happen because of weight changes or extra services like packing, dishonest companies use these as tactics. A reputable mover conducts a visual inventory of your home before giving you a final quote.
Identifying red flags in the estimate
Always insist on a written binding estimate. If the company says they only give verbal quotes, find someone else. Verbal promises hold no weight when the truck arrives at your new front door.
Protecting your goods during transit
Check if the mover mentions valuation coverage early in the process. They must explain the difference between basic liability and full value protection. If they try to gloss over the insurance aspect, they might not be prepared to handle your belongings with the care they deserve. You can browse more cost guides to understand what insurance levels are standard for your type of move.
Is it common for moving companies to have no complaints?
Most active moving companies have at least a few complaints because the nature of the business involves thousands of moving parts. A clean record might simply mean the company is brand new and has not had enough customers to generate feedback. Look for companies that resolve their complaints professionally rather than those that ignore them.
What should I do if a mover holds my items hostage?
If a mover refuses to unload your items until you pay a fee that was not in your contract, contact the FMCSA or local law enforcement immediately. This is an illegal practice that violates federal regulations regarding household goods transport. Keep all your documentation handy so you can prove the amount you originally agreed to pay.
Are moving brokers scams?
Brokers are not inherently scams but the industry is rife with companies that disguise themselves as movers to collect deposits. You should always ask if the company owns their own trucks and employs their own crews. If they cannot answer that clearly, you are likely working with a broker who will sell your move to the lowest bidder.
The best way to ensure a smooth transition is to perform your due diligence before you hand over any money. Start by checking the FMCSA database and verifying the company license status today. Being informed is your strongest tool against bad service and hidden costs.
