How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Start by checking the federal SAFER database for an active USDOT number and MC number.
Search the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration complaint database to see if a mover has a history of federal violations.
Always verify that your mover is a carrier rather than a broker before you sign any binding paperwork.
Finding accurate information on moving companies feels like a full time job. You might assume that a quick search of a company name reveals everything you need to know. Reality shows that many online reviews are either paid for or heavily curated by the business owners themselves. Relying solely on star ratings can lead you into a situation where your goods are held hostage or your final bill is thousands of dollars higher than the initial estimate.
Moving is one of the most stressful experiences in life for a reason. With over 36 million Americans moving each year, there are plenty of dishonest operators looking to exploit families in transition. You need to look beyond the flashy marketing sites and dig into the official data provided by federal regulators. Smart research now prevents significant financial headaches during your transition.
How to spot a dishonest mover
Identifying a bad mover starts with understanding the difference between a carrier and a broker. A moving broker arranges your move but does not own the trucks or employ the crews that move your furniture. Federal rules state they must disclose this status to you before you book. If a company avoids answering questions about whether they own their fleet, consider it a red flag.
You should always verify that a mover has valid credentials. Every legitimate interstate mover must maintain a USDOT number. If you are planning an interstate move, they also need operating authority which is identified by an MC number. You can verify a mover's license through the public SAFER database. This free tool confirms if the business is legally allowed to operate across state lines.
Every interstate mover is legally required to participate in an arbitration program to resolve disputes over loss or damage, and they must provide you with a summary of this program before you sign the bill of lading.
Transparency is the hallmark of a reliable business. If a company refuses to provide you with a written summary of their arbitration process, they are failing to meet federal standards. You deserve to know exactly how they handle disputes if your items arrive broken or the final bill is inaccurate. Never sign a contract that lacks this information, as you will lose your primary path to recourse if things go wrong.
Where to find official company records
Most online review sites provide a window into general customer service, but they lack the hard data regarding safety and legal history. The FMCSA maintains an official complaint database that tracks reports against moving companies. This is where you find the objective facts about whether a specific mover has been cited for overcharging, delays, or property damage.
Beyond federal databases, you should search the Better Business Bureau for recent complaints. While these reports do not always capture every incident, they show how a company reacts to angry customers. A business that responds professionally and resolves issues quickly is far safer than one that ignores complaints entirely. Look at the specific nature of the complaints rather than just the score.
Common complaint patterns
Watch for recurring mentions of hidden fees. Companies that consistently surprise customers with extra charges on delivery day are high risk. You can try our moving cost calculator to see what a fair price for your move should look like before you get a quote from a potential mover.
The danger of broker ambiguity
Brokers sometimes use professional marketing that hides their lack of trucks. If a company seems to have a massive fleet in every state at once, check their MC number carefully. Brokers must clearly identify themselves, so an attempt to hide this status is an immediate reason to walk away.
Searching local attorney general records
State agencies often track companies that violate consumer protection laws. A quick search for the moving company name plus your state attorney general office can reveal if there are pending lawsuits or active investigations against the firm. This step is particularly useful if the company is based in a state with strict moving regulations.
What to do with the data you find
Once you gather your research, you need a way to organize it. Not all complaints are created equal. A single incident of a late truck might be an outlier, while multiple reports of hostage loads represent a systemic business practice. Most people create a simple comparison chart to keep their findings clear.
Factor
Reliable Mover
Suspicious Mover
USDOT/MC Number
Provided and active
Hidden or missing
Pricing Type
Binding not to exceed
Unclear estimate
Complaint History
Resolved transparently
Ignored or aggressive
Broker Status
Disclosed upfront
Obfuscated
If you find a company with a history of serious complaints, do not attempt to negotiate or give them a chance to explain. The market is competitive, and you can easily find a mover with a clean track record. You can browse more cost guides to understand the standard pricing structures used by reputable long distance moving professionals. Protecting your household goods is always worth the extra hour of due diligence.
The FMCSA database contains official reports filed by consumers regarding interstate moving companies. It provides a reliable look at whether a company has a history of federal violations or consumer disputes. While it may not catch every single issue, it remains the most objective source for checking a mover's legal compliance.
How do I know if a mover is a broker or carrier?
A legitimate company will state their status clearly in their contract and promotional materials. You can verify their operating authority using their MC number in the FMCSA's SAFER database to see how they are registered. If they are registered as a broker, they are not the ones who will be physically performing the move.
Can I sue a mover in small claims court?
You have the right to seek justice in small claims court if your mover has caused damage or financial loss. This is often the final step after attempting to resolve issues through the company’s required arbitration program. Check your local state laws to see if there is a cap on the amount you can sue for in this process.
Researching your mover is the best insurance policy you can buy for your upcoming move. Use the official federal resources to verify credentials and pay attention to patterns in consumer complaints. Spending time on this research now ensures that your belongings arrive safely and your budget remains intact.
