How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 5 min read
Quick Answer
Check the FMCSA SAFER database for mandatory USDOT and MC numbers before booking.
Search for complaints through the Better Business Bureau and state Attorney General offices.
Always verify if your mover is a carrier or a broker to understand who handles your dispute.
Finding a reliable moving company starts with knowing where to look for red flags. You should never hire a mover without first confirming their legal standing and checking for past grievances. Roughly 36 million Americans move each year, which creates plenty of room for both honest operators and predatory businesses to exist.
Learning how to find moving company complaints is a necessary step to protect your home and your budget. You can save yourself thousands of dollars and immense stress by performing a quick background check before you sign any contract.
Where can you check for official mover complaints?
The most reliable way to find verified complaints is through government databases. Private review sites can be biased or cluttered with fake testimonials, but federal records are objective. Start by visiting the FMCSA website to look up a carrier using their USDOT number. This database tracks safety records and legal violations for interstate movers.
Why the FMCSA database matters
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration maintains a record of every licensed interstate mover. Every legitimate interstate mover must have a USDOT number, and household goods movers specifically need operating authority, known as an MC number, from the FMCSA. You can verify a mover's license to see if they are authorized to transport your items.
Searching the Better Business Bureau
The Better Business Bureau remains a standard tool for spotting patterns of bad behavior. Look for companies with a high volume of unresolved complaints regarding damaged goods or sudden price hikes. While a single negative review is common, a pattern of ignored complaints suggests a company you should avoid.
Checking with the state Attorney General
Your state Attorney General manages consumer protection complaints. If you suspect a company is engaging in deceptive trade practices, check their website for reported investigations. Many states keep a searchable database of consumer complaints that can reveal histories of hidden fees or contract disputes.
Why do some moving quotes change after booking?
Companies that hide their history often use low quotes to lure you in. Once your items are loaded onto the truck, the price suddenly increases. Understanding these tactics helps you spot the difference between a transparent company and a scam artist.
Moving Method
Average Cost Range
Dispute Resolution
Professional Full Service
$2,500 to $7,000
Mandatory Arbitration
DIY Truck Rental
$500 to $2,000
Limited Liability
Portable Storage Container
$1,500 to $4,000
Carrier Policies
Moving Labor Only
$400 to $1,200
Small Claims Court
The difference between brokers and carriers
A moving broker arranges your move but does not do the physical moving itself. Brokers must disclose that they are a broker, not a carrier, before you book. This distinction matters because the party responsible for your move determines how you file a complaint if things go wrong.
Transparency in the contract
Always read your bill of lading carefully before signing it. This document acts as your legal contract. If a company refuses to explain fees or promises one thing verbally while writing another on the contract, walk away. You can try our moving cost calculator to see what a fair market price looks like for your specific route.
Red flags during the estimate
Listen for high pressure sales tactics. A reputable mover will offer a clear, written estimate based on a physical or virtual walkthrough of your home. Any company that gives a quote over the phone without seeing your items is likely to change that price on moving day.
What movers won't tell you upfront
Many people do not realize that interstate moves have specific legal protections. You have rights when your property is damaged, but you must know how to assert them.
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.
The reality of arbitration
Arbitration is the primary path for settling financial disputes after a move. While it might sound formal, it is a required process designed to avoid long court battles. Ensure your moving agreement explicitly outlines how to trigger this arbitration process if a dispute arises.
Why filing a review is important
Writing a review after your move serves as a warning for the next consumer. If you had a poor experience, be specific about the dates and the nature of the issue. You can browse more cost guides to understand if your negative experience was due to a bad company or just a misunderstanding of market rates.
When to call a lawyer
Most disputes involve damages or unexpected costs. If a mover holds your items hostage for more money than the agreed quote, contact local law enforcement or the FMCSA immediately. Document every interaction and save all emails or text messages as evidence.
A mover is likely a scam if they demand a large cash deposit upfront or refuse to provide a physical address. Check their USDOT number in the federal database, and if the profile shows no history or recent suspension, avoid them. Legitimate companies are always happy to prove their licensing and insurance credentials.
Can I sue a moving company in small claims court?
You can pursue a mover in small claims court if the damages or disputed amounts fall within your local court limits. This is often a final step after you have exhausted the mandatory arbitration process required by federal law. Consult with your local clerk of court to learn the specific filing requirements in your area.
Does the FMCSA help me get money back?
The FMCSA collects information about moving companies to identify safety and consumer risks, but they do not act as an arbitrator for your individual financial loss. Filing a complaint with them helps build a case against a bad actor, but you must use the company's arbitration program to seek reimbursement.
The best way to avoid a bad experience is to verify the mover's credentials before you share your contact information. Take a moment to check their status in the SAFER database and compare quotes through our calculator to ensure you are dealing with a professional.
