How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 7 min read
Quick Answer
You can check for federal safety records and official complaints for free using the FMCSA National Consumer Complaint Database.
Start your research by verifying the mover’s DOT number to ensure they have the proper legal authority for your interstate move.
Always keep copies of your signed bill of lading and the required FMCSA moving publications to support any future claims.
Finding reliable help for an interstate move is rarely as simple as picking the first name in a search result. Moving is famously stressful, often ranking just behind major life changes like divorce, and the industry unfortunately attracts opportunistic actors who prey on unsuspecting families. Knowing how to find moving company complaints early can save you thousands of dollars and hours of headache.
You do not have to rely on marketing hype or paid reviews when evaluating a potential hire. Federal data and state records provide a clear window into how a company actually treats its customers. If you want to move with peace of mind, you need to look at the official sources before you ever pay a deposit.
How can you verify an interstate mover's history?
Every interstate moving company is required to register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This agency maintains a central repository where you can see if a company has a history of safety violations or consumer disputes. Checking this database is the most effective way to spot red flags early.
Using the FMCSA database
The National Consumer Complaint Database is the primary tool for tracking formal grievances against moving companies. If a company has a pattern of overcharging customers, damaging goods, or failing to deliver on time, those incidents often end up here. Simply visiting the site allows you to search by company name or DOT number to see if their record looks clean.
Verifying legal authority
Beyond just looking at complaints, you must confirm the company has the legal right to operate. You can verify a mover's license to ensure they are properly registered. An unregistered company has no accountability, which makes it nearly impossible to resolve disputes if your belongings go missing or arrive damaged.
Understanding your rights
Before you sign any paperwork, the mover must provide two specific documents, which are Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and Ready to Move. These publications outline your legal protections. If a company refuses to hand them over, treat that as a major warning sign. You should also try our moving cost calculator to see what a fair price looks like before you commit to a quote.
Do state and local offices track mover complaints?
While the federal government handles interstate disputes, your local state attorney general or consumer protection office often monitors bad actors at the regional level. Many states have specific departments dedicated to investigating deceptive advertising and local service failures. You should check your state government website to see if there are active alerts or recent actions taken against local moving companies.
What to look for in local reports
Public records often contain details that national databases miss, such as complaints about unprofessional staff or specific types of property damage in your area. If a company has been flagged for failing to honor quotes or changing prices significantly on delivery day, these details will appear in local consumer files. Some states, such as New York, have dedicated agencies like the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection that help residents resolve specific issues regarding services not rendered.
When to contact the Attorney General
If a mover holds your goods hostage or commits outright fraud, your local Attorney General is often the best escalation point. They have the power to investigate companies that systematically violate state consumer protection laws. Filing a report here adds your voice to a public record that helps prevent future scams.
Action
Primary Goal
Response Time
Check FMCSA Record
Verify safety and licensing
Instant
Contact BBB
Review customer service track
2 to 4 weeks
Local Attorney General
Report fraud or illegal acts
Varies by state
Small Claims Court
Recover specific monetary loss
3 to 6 months
What should you know about the arbitration process?
Moving companies are not just required to provide information, they are legally bound to participate in a formal dispute resolution process. If something goes wrong during your move, you do not have to accept the company's first refusal to pay for damages. Federal regulations require interstate household goods movers to participate in an arbitration program.
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.
Why arbitration is your fallback
Arbitration is designed to keep moving disputes out of the court system. If the company damages your furniture or charges you more than the original estimate without justification, you can initiate this process. The company is required to explain how this program works before you ever sign the bill of lading. If they avoid the topic, ask them directly for their written summary of the arbitration program.
Reviewing the bill of lading
The bill of lading is a contract that dictates your rights during the transit of your goods. Read every line carefully before signing, especially the sections regarding valuation and insurance coverage. If you are uncertain about any terms, do not move forward until you have clear answers. You can browse more cost guides to learn what standard contracts look like in your region.
What are the warning signs of a bad moving company?
Trust your instincts when you are receiving quotes from different companies. A professional mover will provide a written estimate, often after an on-site or video survey of your items. If a company insists on a large cash deposit before starting, or refuses to provide a physical address, walk away. These are common tactics used by companies that plan to inflate your bill once your items are on the truck.
Red flags in the quoting process
Beware of quotes that seem too low, as they are often just a hook to get your business. A professional company will be transparent about their pricing, including fuel surcharges and labor costs. If they cannot explain why a price has changed, that is a red flag.
The value of public reviews
While official complaints tell you about legal trouble, reviews from other customers can tell you about their daily behavior. Look for specific details about punctuality, care for belongings, and communication style. If a company has an overwhelming number of negative reviews, even if they have no official federal complaints, they are likely not the right partner for your relocation.
Can I file a complaint if my items were damaged during the move?
Yes, you can file a formal complaint with the FMCSA if you believe the mover failed to properly handle your goods. Before filing, you should always attempt a peaceful resolution directly with the company using their required arbitration program. Keep all photographic evidence and inventory lists to support your claim during the dispute process.
Is the Better Business Bureau the same as a government agency?
The Better Business Bureau is a private organization that collects customer feedback and helps facilitate communication between businesses and consumers. While they are a helpful resource for identifying reputable companies, they are not a government regulator like the FMCSA. You should use the BBB for general company reputation but stick to federal databases for legal and safety compliance records.
What should I do if a mover refuses to give me a copy of their insurance?
Legitimate moving companies should be able to provide proof of their insurance coverage upon request. If they refuse to share this documentation, it is a significant warning sign that they may not be properly protected for your move. You should avoid hiring any mover who cannot demonstrate basic accountability and insurance standards for their operations.
You now have the tools to separate trustworthy movers from those with a history of broken promises. Start by verifying every candidate’s license online and checking the federal complaint database for red flags. Rely on these official resources rather than marketing claims to ensure your belongings reach your new home safely and within your budget.
