Moving Company Scams
Moving can be one of the most stressful events in life.
In the excitement of a new beginning, it's easy to overlook important details when planning your move, especially because...
The moving industry has its share of scams and fraudulent activities.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) administers commercial regulations governing the interstate transportation of household goods.
FMCSA makes a variety of information available to help consumers planning a move.
To ensure your move is as smooth and secure as possible, it’s essential to be aware of these scams and know how to avoid them.

Common Moving Company Scams
The Low-Ball Estimate One of the most common scams involves a moving company offering an extremely low estimate to attract customers. Once your belongings are loaded onto the truck, they might suddenly claim that your items exceed the estimated weight or volume, demanding significantly more money before they will deliver your goods.
Holding Goods Hostage In this scam, movers load your belongings and then refuse to unload them at the destination unless you pay an additional, often exorbitant, fee. This tactic is used to exploit customers who are desperate to retrieve their possessions.
Charging More While Holding Cargo Similar to holding goods hostage, some companies will initially provide a reasonable estimate but then charge more while your items are already on the truck. They refuse to release your belongings until the new, inflated invoice is paid, leaving you with little choice but to comply.
No-Show Movers Some fraudulent companies will take your deposit and simply not show up on moving day. This leaves you in a difficult position, often with little time to find a legitimate mover.
Switch-and-Bait Tactics You might be dealing with a reputable-looking company at first, but on moving day, an entirely different, less professional crew shows up. This bait-and-switch tactic can result in careless handling of your belongings or unexpected additional charges.
Unauthorized Movers Some movers operate without proper licensing and insurance. These unauthorized movers may offer lower rates but pose a significant risk to your belongings and can leave you with little recourse if something goes wrong.
How to Avoid Moving Company Scams
Do Your Research Always research moving companies thoroughly before hiring them. Look for reviews and ratings on websites like Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau. Be wary of companies with too many negative reviews or no online presence at all.
Get Multiple Estimates Obtain estimates from at least three different moving companies. Be cautious of estimates that are significantly lower than the others. This could be a red flag for potential scams.
Check Credentials Ensure the moving company is licensed and insured. In the United States, interstate movers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can check a company’s registration and complaint history on the FMCSA’s website.
Read the Fine Print Carefully read the moving contract and understand all the terms and conditions. Ensure there are no hidden fees and that the estimate includes all potential charges. Never sign a blank or incomplete contract.
Avoid Large Upfront Deposits Reputable moving companies typically do not demand large deposits before the move. Be wary of any company asking for a significant amount upfront. A small deposit to reserve the date is reasonable, but most of the payment should be made upon delivery.
Ask Questions Don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions about the company’s services, fees, and policies. A legitimate company will be transparent and willing to provide all the information you need.
Use a Credit Card Paying with a credit card can provide an additional layer of protection. If a problem arises, you may be able to dispute the charge with your credit card company.
What to Do If You Fall Victim to a Moving Scam
If you suspect you’ve been scammed by a moving company, take immediate action.
Document all communications and transactions with the company.
File a complaint with the FMCSA and your local consumer protection agency.
You may also consider seeking legal advice to explore your options for recovering your belongings or money.
Conclusion
Moving company scams can add unnecessary stress and financial burden to an already challenging process.
By being vigilant, doing your research, and taking precautionary measures, you can protect yourself from falling victim to these moving company scams.
Remember, a little due diligence can go a long way in ensuring your move is smooth and scam-free.
AVOID MOVING COMPANY SCAMS!