How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Search the FMCSA SAFER database to verify the legal operating authority of any interstate moving company.
Always check if your mover is required to provide you with federal publications regarding your rights before you sign any contract.
Review your mover's history in the FMCSA system to see if they have a record of major complaints or safety violations.
Finding real information on a moving company takes more than a quick look at review sites. Many online ratings are easily faked or buried by marketing fluff. If you want to know if a company is legitimate, you must look at federal databases and official government filings.
The most reliable way to avoid bad actors is to focus on legal credentials rather than star ratings. Every interstate mover must be registered with the federal government. If they are not in the system, do not trust them with your household goods.
How can you verify an interstate mover legally
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration maintains a public database that acts as the ultimate filter for your search. You can verify a mover's license through the SAFER system by simply entering their name or their USDOT number. This search tells you if the company has active operating authority to haul your property across state lines.
Do not assume that a company is reputable just because their website looks professional. A legitimate business will always have a valid MC number and USDOT number listed clearly on their site. If you cannot find these, the company is likely operating outside the law.
Why the federal record matters
The FMCSA database shows you more than just a registration status. It tracks the physical address of the company and identifies any legal actions taken against them in the past. This is the only place where you can see if the government has flagged a company for safety or service failures.
Reading the fine print
Before you commit to a quote, look for proof that the company follows federal protocols. Every interstate mover is legally required to give you two specific booklets. These are titled Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and Ready to Move. If a company skips these documents, they are already breaking the law and you should walk away.
Knowing the difference between a real mover and a broker is also essential for your peace of mind. While some brokers are legitimate, they do not own the trucks or employ the movers. You need to know exactly who will be handling your boxes.
What are the warning signs of a bad moving company
Bad movers often try to hide their identity or confuse you with complex pricing structures. They might offer a quote over the phone without ever seeing your home. If a company refuses to offer an in-home or video survey, they are setting you up for a massive price hike on moving day.
You should always verify that the company has a physical office that you can visit. A legitimate mover is transparent about where they are located. If they only use a PO Box or a residential address in a different state, be very cautious.
Factor
Red Flag Sign
Safe Practice
Quote Process
Only gives phone estimates
In-home or video survey
Documentation
No federal booklet provided
Provides official FMCSA guides
Contact Info
Uses only a cell phone number
Verified business landline
License
No MC number provided
Valid USDOT and MC number
Check the status of your potential mover by checking their filings. You can try our moving cost calculator to see what a fair price should look like for your specific distance. If a company gives you a price that seems significantly lower than everyone else, it is almost certainly a trap.
Why do moving quotes change after you book
Many people encounter issues because they sign a contract without reading the liability coverage details. Some movers provide a low base price but add hidden fees for stairs or elevator access. You must insist on a written estimate that covers all potential services.
Federal law requires interstate movers to provide you with a written estimate. If you do not have a hard copy that lists the exact services and terms, you have no protection if they suddenly change the price. Never rely on a verbal promise made by a sales agent on the phone.
The role of binding estimates
A binding estimate means the price you see is the price you pay. This protects you from surprise charges unless you add more items to your shipment. Always ask if your quote is binding before you make a deposit.
Handling disputes after the move
If something goes wrong, you have legal rights regarding the resolution of your claim. Interstate movers must provide you with an arbitration program to handle disputes about damaged goods or overcharges. The details of this program must be provided in writing before you sign the bill of lading.
If you are just starting your search, you can browse more cost guides to get a feel for standard industry pricing. Knowing the market average makes it much harder for a predatory company to scam you.
Who actually regulates these moving companies
The Department of Transportation and the FMCSA handle the heavy lifting for interstate moves. They set the rules for safety and insurance. However, for local moves or specific consumer complaints about rude behavior, you might need to check your state attorney general or local consumer protection office.
Complaints about service often go through different channels depending on your state. While federal agencies handle the big stuff, local agencies can help if you were overcharged or had items go missing during a move within the same state. Always keep a detailed paper trail of every interaction with your mover.
Keeping your own records
Start a file the moment you begin requesting quotes. Save every email, text, and contract. This evidence is vital if you need to file a complaint later.
What to do if you are scammed
Report any suspected fraud to the FMCSA directly through their website. Filing a report helps track repeat offenders. While it may not get your money back immediately, it helps keep the next person from falling into the same trap.
Online reviews are often biased or fabricated by marketing companies. You should treat them as a secondary source and prioritize checking the official registration status of the mover instead.
Can I check if a mover has previous complaints
You can search for formal complaints through the FMCSA database by looking up the company's profile. This will show you if the company has a history of safety violations or legal run-ins.
What happens if a mover damages my property
You are entitled to dispute the charge or the damage through the mandatory arbitration program provided by the mover. Always document the condition of your items with photos before the crew starts packing.
The best way to ensure a smooth move is to verify your mover's credentials early in the process. Use the federal database to confirm their status and always demand a written, binding estimate. You can start your research now by checking your mover's license and using our tools to track your costs.
