7 Red Flags When Hiring Moving Services

Major red flags when hiring movers include door-to-door solicitation, cash-only payment demands, unusually low estimates, no physical address, lack of proper licensing, requesting large upfront deposits, and refusing to provide written estimates. These warning signs often indicate potential scams or unprofessional services.

Why Do Moving Scams Happen So Often?

Moving is stressful, and scammers know it. When you're overwhelmed with relocating, it's easy to miss warning signs that would normally raise red flags. The moving industry sees frequent scams because people often hire movers quickly, sometimes just days before their move. This urgency creates perfect conditions for dishonest companies to take advantage. The best protection comes from getting recommendations from people you trust. When your neighbor or coworker shares their positive experience with a moving company, you're getting insider knowledge about how that company actually treats customers. This personal insight is far more valuable than anonymous online reviews, which can be easily faked. Start asking around early - at least six weeks before your move. Post in neighborhood groups, ask colleagues, and reach out to friends who've moved recently. Building a list of trusted recommendations gives you leverage and options.

What Are the 7 Critical Red Flags to Watch For?

These warning signs should immediately disqualify any moving company from consideration:

1. Door-to-door solicitation or cold calls - Reputable movers get business through referrals and marketing, not by showing up uninvited
2. Demands for cash-only payment or large upfront deposits - Professional companies accept multiple payment methods and typically require payment upon delivery
3. Unusually low estimates that seem too good to be true - Drastically low bids often lead to surprise charges or held hostage belongings
4. No physical business address or only a P.O. Box - Legitimate companies have actual offices where you can visit if problems arise
5. Lack of proper licensing and insurance documentation - Moving companies must be licensed and should readily provide proof of insurance
6. Refuses to provide written estimates or contracts - Everything should be documented in writing with clear terms and pricing
7. Asks you to sign blank or incomplete paperwork - Never sign documents with missing information or blank spaces that could be filled in later

How Can You Verify a Moving Company's Legitimacy?

Start by checking their licensing status through your state's transportation department and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for interstate moves. Every legitimate moving company has a DOT number you can look up. But don't stop at official verification. The most reliable information comes from your personal network. Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues who've moved in the past two years. Ask specific questions: Were they on time? Did they handle belongings carefully? Were there any surprise charges? Did they honor their estimate? When someone in your network had a great experience, ask if you can mention their name when contacting the company. This personal connection often results in better service because the company knows their reputation with existing customers is on the line.

Your Moving Company Verification Checklist

• Check DOT number and licensing through official databases
• Verify insurance coverage and get certificates if needed
• Look up Better Business Bureau rating and complaint history
• Get at least three personal recommendations from trusted sources
• Visit their physical business location if possible
• Confirm they have proper equipment and uniformed staff
• Read their contract thoroughly before signing anything
• Verify they conduct in-home estimates for accurate pricing

What Questions Should You Ask During the Estimate?

A legitimate moving company will conduct an in-person or detailed virtual survey of your belongings before providing an estimate. During this process, ask pointed questions that reveal their professionalism. Inquire about their policy for handling damages, what their insurance covers, and how they handle disputes. Ask for references from recent customers - good companies are proud to share success stories. Find out who will actually be doing your move. Some companies subcontract to other crews, which can lead to communication problems and quality issues. The best insights often come from asking your network what questions they wished they'd asked. Post in local community groups asking what red flags others have encountered. This crowdsourced wisdom can reveal location-specific issues and companies to avoid.

What Are the Most Common Moving Scam Tactics?

Dishonest movers use these manipulative tactics to take advantage of customers:

• Bait and switch pricing - Low estimate followed by massive price increases on moving day
• Hostage belongings - Refusing to unload until you pay inflated fees or surprise charges
• Phantom movers - Companies that exist only online with fake addresses and phone numbers
• High-pressure tactics - Pushing you to sign contracts immediately without time to review
• Inventory manipulation - Adding items to your inventory list to justify higher charges
• Unlicensed subcontractors - Hiring day laborers without proper training or insurance coverage

The best moving companies I work with get 80% of their business from referrals. When you find a company that treats customers well, those customers naturally recommend them to friends and family. That's the strongest indicator of quality service.

Maria Santos, Real Estate Agent

How Should You Handle Estimates and Contracts?

Never accept an estimate over the phone without an inventory inspection. Legitimate companies need to see what they're moving to provide accurate pricing. Get estimates from at least three companies, preferably ones recommended by people in your network. Compare not just prices, but services included, insurance coverage, and terms. The middle estimate is often most realistic. Be wary of estimates significantly higher or lower than others. When reviewing contracts, take your time. A trustworthy company won't pressure you to sign immediately. Ask friends who've moved recently to review your contract - they might catch things you missed based on their experience. Pay attention to the claims process and damage policies. Understanding these details upfront prevents disputes later.

What Should You Do If You Spot Red Flags?

Walk away immediately. Don't try to negotiate with companies showing red flags - these warning signs indicate fundamental problems with their business practices. Instead, return to your network for more recommendations. If you're running short on time, ask your current leads if they know other reputable companies. Good movers often know other professional companies in the area and may provide referrals. Document any concerning interactions, especially if a company was pushy or provided misleading information. Share these experiences with your community to help others avoid the same companies. This collective knowledge protects everyone and strengthens the network of reliable service providers in your area.

How Can You Prepare for Moving Day Success?

Even with a trusted company, preparation ensures smooth execution:

• Take photos of valuable items before packing for damage claims if needed
• Keep important documents and valuables with you, not in the moving truck
• Have cash available for tips - quality crews appreciate recognition for careful work
• Be present during loading and unloading to answer questions and supervise
• Review inventory lists carefully before signing off on delivery completion
• Keep your moving contract and company contact information easily accessible