Moving from one city to another is often one of the most expensive things you’ll do, especially if you invest in household moving services to make the transition easier. That’s why it’s extra important to search for and work with trustworthy movers who won’t take advantage of you. In this guide, we’ll explore red flags, talk about avoiding fraudulent movers, and how to report moving scams.
Key Takeaways
- Moving scams are fairly common, resulting in lost money and belongings.
- A trustworthy mover gives you options for an estimate.
- Avoid scams with thorough written contracts and avoid red flags.
- Report anything questionable about the moving company or broker to the authorities.
Moving Scams Are More Common Than You Think
Moving company scams leave you financially and emotionally devastated. Every year, thousands fall victim to moving scams that result in lost money and damaged or stolen belongings. Scammers often target those who require long-distance moving help or are unfamiliar with how professional movers should work.
Understanding the most common moving scams and how to avoid them is the best remedy to ensure your move is smooth and stress-free. But what should you look for in a moving company, and what sorts of scams do these criminals try to pull? Read on to learn more.
Types of Moving Scams: Know the Warning Signs
Scammers use deceptive tactics to take your money or belongings when you move. The following are typical moving scams that can put you at risk.
1. The Bait-and-Switch Price Scam
One of the most common mover scams starts with an enticingly low estimate. Moving companies provide quotes that seem like a great deal, often significantly lower than competitors. But once your items are on the truck, the price skyrockets. The company claims additional charges for unexpected weight, labor, hidden fees, and other costs. If you refuse to pay, they take your stuff hostage.
How can you avoid this scam? Easy. Get estimates in writing and ensure they’re binding or not-to-exceed estimates. Research moving companies thoroughly and check reviews from reputable sources. Be wary of quotes that are much lower than others. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Over-the-Phone Estimates with No On-Site Inspection
Legitimate movers will conduct in-home or virtual assessments to give you accurate quotes. Scammers who give “too good to be true” quotes over the phone tend to raise the price later.
Phone quotes aren’t uncommon, of course, but they shouldn’t be the last word in your estimate. A moving broker can provide an audio quote, but they can also use Zoom, Facetime, or other video call methods to get a better sense of what’s in your home. That’s often preferable to strangers visiting your home, as in the case of some in-person moving estimates.
3. Moving Broker Scams
Speaking of moving brokers, it’s important to know that your broker is who they say they are. Moving brokers are a relatively recent phenomenon, coming into the industry in the early 2000s as a way to break the monopoly that large moving companies held. Before then, it was difficult for smaller companies to compete.
Some brokers pose as moving companies, collecting your deposits and handing the job off to unverified movers. Their typical red flags include having no physical address, a lack of transparency about which company will perform the move, and pushy sales tactics. One easy way to avoid this scam is to check the broker’s registration with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
4. Hostage Load Scam
In a hostage load scam, the moving company picks up your belongings but refuses to deliver them unless you pay an unexpected exorbitant fee. With your possessions in their hands, you have little option but to pay up. Obtaining your belongings will be difficult without a solid contract outlining the charges.
How to Avoid Scams: Protect Yourself Before You Book
Some of the best ways to reduce the risk of falling for moving scams involve paying close attention to common moving mistakes to avoid. Many involve researching potential moving companies, verifying their credentials, and getting everything in writing. A moving broker can help with all three (and provide other moving tips to simplify the process).
1. Research Moving Companies Thoroughly
You have plenty of tools at your disposal to research moving companies. First, check for licensing with the FMCSA website. You can also read online reviews from multiple sources like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Don’t just read the good reviews. Look at the negative ones, too. Avoid companies with multiple name changes or vague contact information.
Thankfully, moving brokers can help facilitate this process. Brokers specifically vet carriers for reliability and service. They work with trusted moving companies to provide the best possible value and ensure your needed services are part of the contract.
2. Get Everything in Writing
Speaking of contracts, always demand a written agreement with all pricing and services clearly detailed. Avoid companies that only offer verbal agreements or refuse to offer clear documentation.
3. Watch for Red Flags During the Booking Process
Scammers often reveal themselves early on through shady practices, but only if you know what to look for.
Some critical red flags to consider include, but aren’t limited to, the following:
- Large upfront deposits, especially in cash: Legitimate movers request payment upon delivery, not earlier.
- No physical address or online presence: A reputable moving company should have a physical office, address, and online presence.
- Refusal to provide written estimates: Movers must offer a detailed, written estimate outlining the cost. Refusal to provide this information could set you up for a bait-and-switch.
- High-pressure sales tactics: Even some brokers aren’t immune to this. Scammers push you into a quick decision or offer “special discounts” for immediate bookings. Reputable companies allow time to review the contract and compare options.
- No licensing or insurance information: Legitimate movers are registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Illegitimate ones don’t. If they won’t share proof of this or insurance, avoid them.
- Last-minute changes to terms: Movers who suddenly alter pricing, contract terms, or policies right before your move are a red flag. This is often a tactic to trap you into paying more than expected.
- Unprofessional communication: Poor customer service, vague answers, or inconsistent contact information create a lack of credibility.
Recognizing these red flags early helps you avoid costly mistakes and fraud.
Reporting Moving Scams: What to Do If You’re a Victim
Falling victim to a moving scam is frustrating and costly but taking the right steps can help recover damages. It may even help others avoid the same problems. When you suspect fraud, act quickly.
1. Contact the Authorities
File complaints with the FMCSA, which regulates interstate movers. You can also submit reports for the National Consumer Complaint Database (NCCDB), BBB, and your state’s consumer protection or attorney general’s office. Contact the police if your belongings are being held hostage or you’ve been threatened.
2. Dispute Charges and Seek Legal Action
If you paid with a credit card, contact your bank or card issuer to dispute the charge. Many institutions can use fraud protection policies to help you recover the damages. For significant losses, consider filing a claim in small claims court or consulting a lawyer for your options.
3. Find Last-Minute Moving Services
Should you be stranded without a mover, you still have options. A reputable last-minute moving company can help. A moving broker can even connect you with licensed movers who focus on emergency and last-minute moves.
Stay Informed and Move with Confidence
Protecting yourself from moving scams means staying vigilant, researching companies, and taking full advantage of your consumer rights. Always take the time to verify moving company credentials before you sign a contract. Avoid upfront payments and get everything in writing. Trust your instincts, especially if something feels off.
Of course, moving brokers can simplify the process. A good one does the pre-work of vetting companies and provides clear, written documentation for your moving estimate with no hefty deposits required.
Our commitment to service helps you find licensed cross-country movers within our carrier network at fair, competitive prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I identify a fraudulent moving company?
Look for red flags like no physical address, no license or insurance, vague estimates, large upfront deposits, and poor online reviews. Absurdly low prices can also be a major red flag.
What steps should I take if I suspect a moving scam?
Report the company to the FMCSA, BBB, and your state’s consumer protection office. If they’re holding your belongings hostage, call local authorities.
Are there warning signs to watch for when hiring movers?
Yes. Beware of movers who demand large cash deposits, refuse to offer written estimates, and use high-pressure sales tactics. Sudden last-minute price changes are also a problem.
What resources are available for reporting moving scams?
Report scams to the FMCSA, BBB, consumer protection offices, and the National Consumer Complaint Database. If fraud is involved, you may also contact local law enforcement.
