How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Check the official FMCSA SAFER database for your mover's USDOT and MC license numbers.
Review complaint data through the Better Business Bureau and state Attorney General offices.
Avoid companies that fail to provide required documents like Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.
Most people realize they need to check a mover's reputation only after a problem starts. You should instead learn how to find moving company complaints before a single box leaves your home.
Moving is the third most stressful event in a person's life, trailing only a death in the family or a divorce. With 36 million Americans moving annually, the industry is massive and often attracts bad actors who ignore the rules.
Why does looking for mover complaints prevent scams?
A quick internet search often reveals more about a company than their own glossy website ever will. Moving companies that frequently overcharge or damage property leave a trail of digital breadcrumbs if you know where to look.
Spotting red flags in company reviews
Look for patterns rather than isolated bad reviews. A single disgruntled customer might just be having a bad day, but recurring reports of hidden fees or missing items suggest a systemic issue within the company culture.
Pay attention to how the company responds to these negative reviews. A professional business addresses concerns with a path toward resolution, while a scammy mover often gets defensive or disappears entirely.
Understanding the difference between brokers and carriers
A moving broker arranges your move but does not own the trucks or employ the crew. This structure makes it difficult to track complaints because the company you booked might blame the third party carrier for any damage.
Federal law requires brokers to disclose their role before you book. If a company tries to hide whether they are a carrier or a broker, walk away immediately.
Every legitimate interstate mover must have a USDOT number, and household goods movers specifically need operating authority from the FMCSA. Always verify these details for free using the official SAFER database before you sign a contract.
Verifying these credentials is the most effective way to see if a company is registered to operate legally. You can verify a mover's license through the federal portal to ensure they are compliant.
Where do you find official moving complaints?
Relying on random social media posts is often misleading. Official government and consumer protection databases provide the objective data you need to make an informed decision.
Searching the FMCSA database
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration maintains a record of every licensed interstate mover. This database tracks safety incidents, licensing status, and formal consumer complaints filed at the federal level.
If you find that a mover has a high volume of complaints regarding lost or damaged goods, consider it a major warning. Moving companies with a history of safety violations rarely improve their service standards overnight.
Consulting the Better Business Bureau
The BBB remains a standard resource for checking business reliability. They track the number of complaints filed against a company and whether the business attempted to resolve those issues.
While a few complaints are common for high-volume service companies, look for companies that consistently fail to respond to customer inquiries. You can also try our moving cost calculator to see what a fair price range looks like, as low quotes are often the bait used by companies with long complaint histories.
Checking state Attorney General reports
Most states maintain a consumer protection division that tracks complaints against businesses. If a company operates across state lines, they must adhere to state-specific regulations.
Check the office of the Attorney General in the state where the mover is headquartered. They often publish reports on common scams or companies that have been cited for deceptive business practices in the past.
How can you spot a low quality mover before reading reviews?
Sometimes the signs are visible long before you find a negative review online. Unprofessional behavior in the quoting process is a strong indicator of how they will treat your belongings.
Pricing transparency and the in-home estimate
Reputable movers prefer to provide an in-home or virtual video survey of your items. If a company insists on giving you a price over the phone without seeing your home, they are likely lowballing you to win the booking.
| Mover Type | Typical Process | Risk Level |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Professional Van Line | In-home survey, binding quote | Low |
| Local Licensed Mover | Video or on-site estimate | Low |
| Unknown Broker | Phone quote, no visual inspection | High |
| Unlicensed Operator | Instant low price, cash only | Extreme |
Always ask for a detailed inventory list. If a company refuses to put their promises in writing, you have no recourse if the price changes significantly on the day of the move.
Documents you should receive
Your mover is legally required to provide you with specific documents. They must give you copies of Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and the Ready to Move publication.
Failure to provide this paperwork is a violation of federal regulations. A professional company that cares about its reputation will offer these materials proactively because they understand the rules of the road.
You can browse more cost guides to learn what standard procedures look like for long distance moves. Understanding these norms helps you identify when a company is cutting corners.
What happens if you have already hired a mover?
If you find yourself in the middle of a bad experience, document everything immediately. Your ability to get a resolution depends on the evidence you collect during the process.
Documenting the damage and communication
Keep a written log of every phone call, email, and conversation you have with the company. Take photos of your items before they are packed and immediately upon arrival.
If you find damage, note it on the bill of lading before you sign for the delivery. This is your primary document for filing an insurance claim or a formal complaint later on.
Taking action after the move
Start by attempting a peaceful resolution directly with the company. Sometimes a clear, written notice of your intent to file a formal complaint can encourage a company to settle a dispute.
If they refuse to cooperate, file a report with the FMCSA. You can also file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and your state consumer protection office to ensure other people do not encounter the same problems.
Are online reviews for moving companies trustworthy?
Online reviews offer a glimpse into customer experiences, but they can be biased or manipulated. Always look for consistent themes across multiple platforms rather than focusing on a single high or low star rating.
How do I know if a moving quote is too low?
A quote that is significantly lower than three other professional estimates is usually a red flag for a bait and switch scam. Extremely cheap prices often lead to massive, unexpected fees once your belongings are already on their truck.
What can I do if a mover holds my goods hostage?
If a mover refuses to release your property unless you pay more than the agreed amount, contact the FMCSA and your local police department. This is a common and illegal tactic used by predatory companies to extort extra payments from vulnerable customers.
Take control of your move by verifying every company you consider before paying a deposit. Use the official FMCSA database to check for valid licenses and read up on your consumer rights to ensure your move stays on track.
