How to Find Moving Company Complaints Before You Hire?
TM
Written by TheMoveTips Editorial Team
Updated 6 min read
Quick Answer
Start by checking the federal SAFER database to confirm the company has active operating authority and valid insurance.
Search the FMCSA consumer complaint database specifically for reports of cargo damage and billing disputes.
Never rely solely on star ratings on third party review sites because many companies pay to suppress negative feedback.
Most people realize they need to check a mover's history only after something goes wrong with their shipment. Finding out how to find moving company complaints is a simple process that saves you from potential scams and damaged belongings. You should spend twenty minutes on official government sites before you ever hand over a deposit.
Moving companies often bury negative reviews under a mountain of fake five star ratings on popular search engines. These platforms lack the verification tools needed to separate honest customer feedback from paid marketing tactics. You need to look where the federal government tracks real, documented problems.
Where can you find official records on moving companies?
The most reliable way to research a company is through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration or FMCSA. This agency maintains the SAFER database, which is the gold standard for verifying if a mover is legitimate. You can verify a mover's license there in seconds.
Checking the SAFER database
Every interstate mover must have a USDOT number and an MC number to operate legally. When you search these numbers, look for the status section. If the status says inactive or out of service, stop your search immediately and look for another provider.
Accessing the FMCSA complaint system
The FMCSA also tracks consumer complaints related to household goods moves. This database logs specific issues like delivery delays, loss of items, or unauthorized price increases. You can filter these records to see if a company has a history of repeated violations.
Why third party sites are often misleading
Consumer review sites are notorious for allowing companies to respond to and hide negative posts. Some platforms even offer paid services to help movers manage their online reputation by pushing complaints to the second page of results. Trust official federal filings over anonymous comments found on social media or review apps.
How do you interpret the complaints you find?
Finding a single complaint does not necessarily mean a company is dishonest. Even the best movers occasionally deal with equipment failure or scheduling errors. You should pay attention to how the company resolved the problem rather than the existence of the complaint itself.
Patterns of bad behavior
Watch for recurring themes across multiple reviews. If five different people mention that their final bill was significantly higher than the initial written estimate, that is a clear red flag. You want to avoid companies that consistently ignore their legal obligations to customers.
Comparing moving service data
Use this table to understand the typical cost and timeline structures for different types of long distance moves.
Service Type
Average Price Range
Typical Timeline
Risk Level
Full Service Pack
$4,000 to $9,000
3 to 7 Days
Moderate
Self Service Container
$2,500 to $5,000
7 to 14 Days
DIY Truck Rental
$1,000 to $3,000
2 to 5 Days
Low
White Glove Move
$6,000 to $15,000
2 to 5 Days
Low
When to walk away from a deal
If a mover refuses to provide an in person or virtual walkthrough, find another company. Accurate estimates require a clear assessment of your inventory. If you are still unsure about the total cost of your move, try our moving cost calculator to see if your quote is realistic.
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.
What are your rights if a mover fails you?
The law provides specific protections for people moving across state lines. Federal regulations ensure you have a path to resolution if your move goes wrong. You are entitled to receive two specific documents: Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move and Ready to Move.
Understanding your legal leverage
If a mover damages your property, they are required by law to offer a process to address the claim. You do not have to settle for their initial offer if it does not cover the value of your damaged items. Always keep a copy of your signed bill of lading, as this document acts as your primary contract.
Reporting bad actors to the government
You can file a formal complaint directly through the National Consumer Complaint Database if a mover violates federal rules. This action helps the agency track trends and penalize companies that operate in bad faith. By documenting your experience, you help protect future customers from the same treatment.
Reviewing your contract carefully
Read the fine print before signing anything. Companies often include clauses that limit their liability for specific items. If you see language that feels restrictive or confusing, ask for a written explanation before you hand over any payment.
How can you spot a moving scam before you book?
Scammers often rely on high pressure sales tactics to get your deposit quickly. If a salesperson insists you must book today to secure a price, that is an immediate warning sign. Genuine moving professionals provide quotes that are valid for several days or weeks.
The dangers of lowball quotes
Moving companies that provide a price far below the market average are often planning to hike the fee on moving day. They might hold your belongings hostage until you pay the inflated balance. If a price seems too good to be true, it almost certainly is.
Common signs of a fake mover
Check their website for a physical office address and a landline phone number. Scammers often use generic websites with stock photos and no verifiable location. You can browse more cost guides to understand what typical market rates look like for your specific move.
Is it possible to track every complaint against a mover?
You can view federally reported complaints on the FMCSA website, but local issues are often handled by state attorneys general. Many state level consumer protection agencies keep separate databases for complaints filed within their borders. Checking both federal and state resources provides the most complete picture of a company.
Should I believe reviews on social media?
Social media reviews are often unreliable because they lack verification and can be easily manipulated by company owners. While they might give you a general sense of public sentiment, they should never be your primary research tool. Always confirm the information you find there by cross referencing it with official government data.
How do I know if a mover is legally authorized?
Every legitimate interstate mover is required to have a valid USDOT number and an MC number on file with the federal government. You can search these numbers on the SAFER website to verify their operating authority and current insurance status. If a company cannot provide these numbers or refuses to share them, you should choose a different provider immediately.
Taking the time to verify your mover through federal databases is the best insurance policy you have. Use the tools provided by the FMCSA to ensure your belongings arrive safely and on budget. Your research today prevents the stress of a failed move tomorrow.
