How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Start your search at the official FMCSA SAFER database to verify operating authority for interstate movers.
Always check the Better Business Bureau for unresolved disputes rather than relying solely on star ratings.
Confirm if your mover is a broker or carrier, as this changes how you handle service complaints.
Knowing how to find moving company complaints can save you from a stressful relocation and potentially thousands of dollars in hidden fees. Many people assume a high star rating on a generic review site means a company is reliable, but those ratings are often easily manipulated or inflated by fake entries. Real insight comes from digging into federal records and looking for patterns of unresolved conflict.
You should never hire an interstate mover without first checking their legal status. About 36 million Americans move each year, which creates a large market for both professional crews and bad actors who prey on unsuspecting customers. Spending ten minutes checking a company record now is much easier than fighting for your belongings later.
Where can you find official mover complaint records?
The most reliable place to start is the federal government. Every legitimate interstate mover is required to have a USDOT number and active operating authority from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. You can use the FMCSA public SAFER database to see if a company is currently authorized to move your household goods across state lines.
If you find a company that lacks an MC number or has a history of safety violations, move on to the next candidate. The FMCSA database shows you if a company is a broker or a carrier. Brokers arrange the move but do not physically handle your items, so you need to know who is actually showing up at your door on move day.
Why BBB reports matter more than star ratings
While star ratings fluctuate, the Better Business Bureau tracks how a company handles formal complaints. Look specifically for the number of closed complaints and whether the company made an effort to resolve the issues. A company with ten complaints that were all addressed professionally is often a safer bet than a company with two complaints that remain open for months.
Using social media and forums for context
Online forums and community sites often contain the raw, unfiltered experiences of past customers. Look for repetitive mentions of specific problems like broken furniture or sudden price spikes. If five people mention the exact same dishonest sales tactic, you should take that as a serious warning sign regardless of what the company website claims.
Moving is a high stakes process, and the cost difference between professional service and a budget scam is massive. You can try our moving cost calculator to see what a fair market rate looks like for your specific distance and inventory volume.
What warning signs should you look for in reviews?
Most people focus on the final star rating, but the content of the reviews tells the real story. Watch for specific mentions of final bills being higher than the original written estimate. This is a classic tactic used by low quality operators to trap customers who are already in the middle of a move.
Consistency is your best friend
If you see consistent reports about crews showing up late or failing to provide the required paperwork, these are red flags. Legitimate movers are required to give you specific federal publications regarding your rights before the move begins. If a mover ignores these basic regulations, they are likely ignoring other professional standards.
The cost of ignoring the details
Ignoring these signals can lead to major budget overruns. The table below outlines typical price ranges and the risks associated with various service tiers.
Move Distance
Estimated Price Range
Common Complaint Source
Local (Under 100 miles)
$800 to $2,500
Hidden labor or travel fees
Mid Distance (100 to 500 miles)
$2,000 to $5,000
Delayed delivery timelines
Long Distance (500+ miles)
$4,000 to $10,000+
Final weight exceeding estimates
Interstate Move
$5,000 to $15,000+
Broker versus carrier confusion
What are your rights if a mover fails you?
You are protected by federal law, but you have to know how to assert those rights. If a company fails to deliver your goods or damages items during transit, you have a clear pathway for recourse. First, try to resolve the issue directly with the company management through written communication.
Before your move, an interstate mover is required to give you copies of two FMCSA publications: 'Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move' and 'Ready to Move.'
Escalating your complaint
When a company refuses to make things right, file a formal complaint with the FMCSA. This creates a permanent federal record that helps other consumers avoid the same company in the future. You can also contact the Attorney General in your state to see if there are local regulations being violated.
Avoiding the broker trap
Brokers frequently quote low prices to get your business but then sell your move to the lowest bidding carrier. Always ensure your contract explicitly names the entity performing the move. If they cannot identify the carrier, you should walk away immediately because you have no way to verify the safety record of the actual drivers.
Understanding these protections allows you to feel more confident as you approach the logistics of your relocation. You can also browse more cost guides to ensure you have a realistic expectation of what a professional move should cost.
How do I know if a mover is a broker or a carrier?
A legitimate company must disclose their status as a broker or a carrier before you book your move. You can confirm their official designation by looking up their USDOT number on the public FMCSA SAFER database.
Are bad reviews always a reason to avoid a company?
Not every bad review is a sign of a scam, as even good companies sometimes have isolated incidents. Look for patterns of behavior like consistent overcharging or lack of communication rather than one off complaints about timing or minor accidents.
Can I sue a moving company for damaged items?
You can seek justice in small claims court if a company refuses to honor your rights or address damage claims properly. Always document your items with photos before the move so you have proof of the condition of your belongings.
If you find yourself stuck, remember that federal agencies and state offices exist to protect your rights as a consumer. Take the time to verify your mover today and use the resources available to ensure your next move is a success.
