How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Start by verifying their USDOT and MC numbers on the FMCSA SAFER database to ensure they are legally authorized to operate.
Search for complaints through the Better Business Bureau and state Attorney General offices to spot patterns of unprofessional behavior.
Always demand the required federal publications regarding your rights and responsibilities before signing any binding agreements.
You probably think most moving horror stories involve a lost box or a scratched table. The reality is that bad actors often use high pressure tactics to hold your belongings hostage for extra cash. Knowing how to find moving company complaints before you sign a contract is the best way to keep your move on track.
Nearly 36 million Americans move every year. This massive volume of business creates a playground for scammers who count on your lack of research. A few minutes of digging can distinguish a professional crew from a company that will disappear when you need them most.
Checking public databases might sound like a chore, but it is the primary line of defense for your household goods. You have the right to know who is handling your life, and the tools to uncover their track record are free and accessible to everyone.
Why Checking Mover Records Matters
Identifying the Red Flags
Most companies look professional online, but that gloss fades quickly if they have a history of breaking contracts. Look for patterns involving unexpected price hikes or delays that exceed the estimated delivery window. If you find multiple reports of the same issue, take those warnings seriously.
Understanding Federal Oversight
Interstate movers must follow specific rules set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Every legitimate interstate company carries a USDOT number and an MC number. You can verify these details instantly through the Verify a mover's license tool to confirm they are registered correctly.
Protecting Your Household Goods
Moving is already the third most stressful life event for most people. When you take the time to verify a company, you significantly reduce the risk of being overcharged or dealing with stolen items. Smart research turns a high risk situation into a controlled business transaction.
Because you need to compare options effectively, it helps to see how the industry standards align with what you should expect.
Checklist Item
Why It Is Essential
Where To Look
USDOT Registration
Proves legal authority
FMCSA SAFER Database
Better Business Bureau
Tracks consumer disputes
BBB Official Website
State Attorney General
Handles local fraud
State Government Site
Rights Handbook
Explains your protections
Official FMCSA Portal
After verifying the basics, you should consider the actual cost of your relocation by using our Try our moving cost calculator to see what a fair price looks like in your area.
How to Spot a Dishonest Mover
The Disappearing Review
Many companies bury negative feedback under a mountain of fake five star reviews. When reading online testimonials, look for specific mentions of broken items or changes in price after the truck was loaded. If every single review is glowing and vague, be extremely skeptical of their reputation.
High Pressure Sales Tactics
A legitimate company gives you time to review the estimate and your rights. If a representative demands a large cash deposit upfront or pressures you to book immediately to hold a price, walk away. Professional movers focus on your inventory list rather than rushing your financial decision.
Vague Estimates
You should never receive a quote that lacks detail. A binding estimate must be clear about weight, distance, and extra fees like stairs or elevator access. If you cannot get a firm answer on why the price is what it is, look for a more transparent provider.
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.
These requirements ensure you have a path to resolution if the move does not go as planned. Ensure your mover provides these details early in the process.
What to Do If Something Goes Wrong
Initiating a Peaceful Resolution
Start by documenting every interaction with the company. Take photos of damaged items and keep copies of every email or signed document from the day of the move. Contact the company manager directly with your evidence and a clear request for a resolution.
Escalating to Official Channels
If the company refuses to listen, your next step is filing a formal report with the FMCSA. You should also report the business to the Better Business Bureau and your state Attorney General. These offices track patterns of behavior that lead to formal investigations.
Using Small Claims Court
Sometimes, the only way to recover lost funds is through the legal system. Small claims court is designed for individual disputes where you do not need a lawyer. It acts as a final resort when companies refuse to honor their contractual obligations or basic consumer rights.
If you are just starting your search, you can Browse more cost guides to learn what typical services cost before you finalize your moving list.
You cannot perform a personal background check on a business owner easily, but federal registration tells you if they are authorized to operate. The FMCSA database shows if a carrier has been flagged for safety violations or operating without proper insurance. This data is usually more predictive of their business integrity than a personal history check.
Are bad reviews always a sign of a bad company?
Even the best companies occasionally have a frustrated customer, so look for a trend of similar complaints instead of one isolated event. If you see ten reports of the same exact behavior, like hidden fees or late arrivals, that is a pattern you should avoid. One complaint about a late truck is often a logistical hiccup, but a dozen reports about stolen goods is a warning sign.
Is the Better Business Bureau the final word on movers?
The BBB is a helpful starting point, but it is not a government agency with legal enforcement powers. While it tracks complaints and helps facilitate communication between you and the company, it does not replace the official oversight of the FMCSA. Use both sources to get the full picture of a company before you sign any paperwork.
Take control of your move by verifying every mover on your shortlist before you book. Use the federal database to confirm their authority and always keep a copy of the required rights publications to protect your household goods.
