How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Search for complaints by using the official FMCSA SAFER database to verify a mover’s license and safety history.
Check reviews on third party sites but ignore anonymous profiles that lack specific details about the move.
Confirm if your mover is a carrier or a broker because brokers cannot perform the actual move themselves.
Finding real information on moving companies can feel like navigating a maze of fake five star reviews and aggressive sales tactics. If you want to know how to find moving company complaints, you must look past the star ratings on popular review aggregators. Most of these sites allow companies to bury negative feedback under a pile of paid testimonials.
You are better off starting with official federal records rather than random internet forums. Official databases provide a factual window into a mover's history that marketing websites simply cannot offer. Protecting your belongings starts with verifying the company's legal status before you ever provide a deposit or sign a bill of lading.
Where to look for official moving company complaints
The most reliable way to research a company is through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This government agency maintains the SAFER database, which tracks the safety records and operating history of every interstate mover in the country. You can perform a Verify a mover's license search to see if they hold valid authority to transport your household goods.
Why the SAFER database matters
The SAFER database lists whether a company has a valid USDOT number and active operating authority. If a company does not have an MC number, they are not legally authorized to perform interstate moves. You should also check for complaints filed directly with federal regulators regarding service issues.
Recognizing the difference between carriers and brokers
Many complaints stem from consumers who mistakenly hire a broker instead of a carrier. A broker arranges your move but does not own the trucks or employ the moving crew. They must disclose their status as a broker before you book the move. If you feel misled about who is actually handling your furniture, you have likely encountered a common industry pitfall.
Understanding your rights during a dispute
Federal law mandates that all interstate household goods movers participate in an arbitration program. This rule exists specifically to resolve disputes over loss or damage to your property. Before you sign any paperwork, the mover is legally required to provide a written summary of this arbitration process.
Researching a company involves looking at multiple data points to paint a complete picture. The following table highlights what you should look for when comparing different service providers.
Verification Step
What to Look For
Why It Matters
USDOT Number
Active status in SAFER
Confirms the mover is federally registered
Company Type
Carrier vs Broker
Determines who is accountable for the truck
Arbitration Policy
Written summary provided
Ensures you have a path to resolve damage claims
Service Area
Interstate authority
Prevents illegal operations across state lines
Which red flags matter most when reading reviews
Negative reviews are often vague, but specific details can save you from a disaster. When you read through complaints, look for mentions of sudden price hikes or hidden fees after the truck is already loaded. These are common indicators of bad faith business practices.
The problem with too many perfect ratings
An overwhelming number of generic five star reviews is a red flag on its own. Authentic reviews often contain messy details like the specific date of the move, the size of the home, or a quirk about the crew. If every review says the exact same thing about how great the company is, you are likely looking at a curated list rather than an honest assessment.
Spotting the bait and switch
Many victims of poor moving experiences report that the price they were quoted over the phone was much lower than the final bill. If a company refuses to provide an in-home or video survey before giving you a quote, they are setting you up for an inflated final price. Be wary of any company that only asks for a zip code and an estimate of the room count.
Before signing any contract, ensure you understand the arbitration process because federal law requires interstate movers to provide this information in writing.
How to identify common moving scam tactics
Scammers often operate under several different names to hide their history of bad reviews. If a company seems to have a very new website or has only been active for a few months, dig deeper into their corporate history. Use our Try our moving cost calculator to see what a realistic price range looks like so you can spot quotes that are intentionally low to lure you in.
The deposit trap
Legitimate movers usually do not ask for a large down payment before the truck arrives at your door. If a company demands a huge deposit or full payment upfront, treat it as a serious warning sign. This gives them leverage to hold your belongings hostage later on.
Vague communication
Professional movers are usually transparent about their equipment, insurance coverage, and liability limitations. If you ask for a copy of their insurance certificate and they dodge the question, move on to the next candidate. You should never feel like you are pulling teeth just to get basic business documents.
You have the right to file a claim for damaged or missing goods through the mover's mandatory arbitration program. You should document all damage with photos and keep a detailed inventory of your items before the move begins. Always check your contract for the specific valuation coverage you selected.
Are broker reviews reliable?
Broker reviews can be misleading because they often do not reflect the quality of the actual carrier that moves your items. You might have a great experience with the salesperson at the broker office but a terrible experience with the driver who shows up at your house. Always confirm the identity of the carrier and check their separate safety records.
How do I know if a mover is a legitimate carrier?
You can verify if a mover is a legitimate carrier by checking their MC number and USDOT number in the official FMCSA database. This public record will show you if their authority is active and if there are any pending enforcement actions. Do not rely on information provided solely by the company's own marketing materials.
If you find that a company lacks clear records or displays these common red flags, keep looking for a different provider. You can always Browse more cost guides to learn about fair market pricing and what to expect during a professional move. Taking a few hours to research now will prevent significant stress and financial loss later.
