{"id":134,"date":"2024-09-25T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-09-25T10:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/?p=134"},"modified":"2025-09-05T15:27:42","modified_gmt":"2025-09-05T19:27:42","slug":"avoid-moving-scams","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Avoid Moving Scams"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"690\/474\" width=\"690\" height=\"474\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Avoiding-Moving-Scams.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43493 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Avoiding-Moving-Scams.jpg 690w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Avoiding-Moving-Scams-300x206.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Get everything in writing and triple-check it<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-a7f38dba-371f-4e7c-b92d-3a58a64c2484\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\">Table of Contents<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column \">\n\t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/#0-1-do-your-research-and-choose-a-reputable-mover\" style=\"\">1. Do Your Research and Choose a Reputable Mover<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/#4-2-watch-out-for-unrealistic-estimates\" style=\"\">2. Watch Out for Unrealistic Estimates<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/#8-3-be-aware-of-hostage-scams\" style=\"\">3. Be Aware of Hostage Scams<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/#12-4-understand-the-red-flags-of-a-moving-scam\" style=\"\">4. Understand the Red Flags of a Moving Scam<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/#17-5-be-cautious-when-using-third-party-brokers\" style=\"\">5. Be Cautious When Using Third-Party Brokers<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/#18-6-report-moving-scams-immediately\" style=\"\">6. Report Moving Scams Immediately<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/#21-7-stay-organized-during-your-move\" style=\"\">7. Stay Organized During Your Move<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Just like any other industry, the moving industry isn\u2019t immune to fraudsters, and home moving scams have become more common in recent years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To protect yourself, it&#8217;s crucial to recognize the warning signs of moving scams and understand how to avoid them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this guide, we&#8217;ll walk you through practical steps to ensure your move is safe, secure, and scam-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may also like to read: <a href=\"\/move\/moving-insurance-types-cost\/\">Home Moving Insurance.<\/a> Whilst not a scam, many people feel cheated by the payouts that movers insurance offers. Being underinsured is one of the most common home-moving mistakes. In this guide, we explain the different types of home moving insurance so that your move is properly insured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"\ud83d\udea8 Avoid Moving Company Scams \u2013 Don\u2019t Get Tricked! \ud83d\ude9b\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/0U4wqLmjisY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-1-do-your-research-and-choose-a-reputable-mover\">1. Do Your Research and Choose a Reputable Mover<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The foundation of a successful move starts with hiring a reputable moving company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Scam movers often pop up with fake websites, lowball estimates, or limited online presence to lure in unsuspecting customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To avoid falling into their trap, follow these steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-verify-the-companys-credentials\">Verify the company&#8217;s credentials<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>In the U.S., moving companies must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a valid U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can check this number on the <a href=\"https:\/\/safer.fmcsa.dot.gov\/CompanySnapshot.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">FMCSA website<\/a> to verify its legitimacy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-check-online-reviews\">Check online reviews<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Go to our extensive list of moving company reviews and read them carefully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While some bad reviews are normal, excessive complaints about pricing discrepancies, damaged goods, or hostage situations should raise red flags.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-seek-recommendations\">Seek recommendations<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Ask friends, family, or colleagues for referrals to trusted moving companies. Personal recommendations from people you trust are invaluable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may also like to read: <a href=\"\/move\/how-to-choose-a-moving-company\/\">How to Choose a Moving Company<\/a>. A whole section of our home moving blog is dedicated to choosing the right mover for your needs. There is some invaluable information that will make your move cheaper and safer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-2-watch-out-for-unrealistic-estimates\">2. Watch Out for Unrealistic Estimates<\/h3>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"690\/474\" width=\"690\" height=\"474\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Low-ball-moving-estimates.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43508 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Low-ball-moving-estimates.jpg 690w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Low-ball-moving-estimates-300x206.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Beware of low estimates <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>One common tactic scammers use is to offer an incredibly low estimate to secure your business, only to increase the price significantly once your belongings are loaded onto the truck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s how to avoid being trapped by an unrealistic estimate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-get-multiple-quotes\">Get multiple quotes<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Obtain estimates from at least three different movers to get a sense of the average cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be cautious of any estimates that seem significantly lower than the others. Scammers often use &#8220;too good to be true&#8221; pricing to lure customers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Must do: Be sure to get at least <a href=\"\/moving-cost-estimator.php\">4 quotes<\/a> from movers so that you can compare prices and services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-request-an-in-home-estimate\">Request an in-home estimate<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Reputable movers will offer to visit your home to provide an accurate estimate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This allows them to assess the size and weight of your items.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Avoid movers who only provide estimates over the phone or online without seeing your belongings firsthand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-understand-the-types-of-estimates\">Understand the types of estimates<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>There are three types of moving estimates: binding, non-binding, and binding-not-to-exceed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A binding estimate locks in the quoted price, while a non-binding estimate may fluctuate based on the final weight of your belongings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A binding-not-to-exceed estimate ensures that even if your belongings weigh more than expected, you won&#8217;t be charged extra.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose the type of estimate that suits your needs, and be wary of non-binding estimates that leave too much room for sudden price hikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may also like to read: <a href=\"\/move\/moving-companies-paperwork\/\">Understanding the Moving Companies Paperwork<\/a>. In this guide, we explain the various documents that the moving company will give to you and what you should take particular note of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-3-be-aware-of-hostage-scams\">3. Be Aware of Hostage Scams<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In a hostage scam, movers pack up your belongings and then refuse to deliver them until you pay a much higher fee than originally agreed upon. This is not only unethical but illegal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s how to avoid such scams:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"9-read-the-contract-carefully\">Read the contract carefully<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensure the terms of the contract clearly state the total cost, delivery dates, and liability for damages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Never sign blank or incomplete documents. If anything seems unclear, ask for clarification before proceeding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"10-ask-about-insurance-and-coverage-options\">Ask about insurance and coverage options<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Reputable movers offer different levels of liability coverage, typically based on the weight of your items.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Basic coverage is usually included in the price, but you may want to consider purchasing full-value protection for added peace of mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"11-avoid-paying-large-deposits\">Avoid paying large deposits<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Most legitimate moving companies do not require large upfront deposits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If a mover asks for a significant deposit before the move, it\u2019s a red flag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pay a small deposit if necessary but avoid paying cash. Using a credit card provides you with protection in case of fraud.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"12-4-understand-the-red-flags-of-a-moving-scam\">4. Understand the Red Flags of a Moving Scam<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Spotting early warning signs can help you steer clear of fraudulent movers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be on the lookout for these red flags:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"13-no-physical-address-or-company-name\">No physical address or company name<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Scammers often operate under generic names like &#8220;Mover Inc.&#8221; or &#8220;National Movers&#8221; and may not have a physical office or location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Always verify the company\u2019s address and ensure they have a professional office presence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"14-unprofessional-behavior\">Unprofessional behavior<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Pay attention to how the company interacts with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If they are difficult to reach, avoid answering questions, or pressure you into making quick decisions, they could be running a scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"15-cash-only-payments\">Cash-only payments<\/h4>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"690\/475\" width=\"690\" height=\"475\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/How-to-Protect-Payments-when-hiring-movers.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43510 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/How-to-Protect-Payments-when-hiring-movers.jpg 690w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/How-to-Protect-Payments-when-hiring-movers-300x207.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Paying by card gives you a level of protection<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Legitimate moving companies accept multiple forms of payment, including credit cards, checks, and wire transfers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If the mover insists on cash payments, it&#8217;s likely a scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"16-no-inventory-list-or-bill-of-lading\">No inventory list or bill of lading<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>A reputable mover will provide you with a bill of lading (a detailed receipt of your belongings) and an inventory list. This ensures accountability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If they don&#8217;t offer these documents, find another mover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"17-5-be-cautious-when-using-third-party-brokers\">5. Be Cautious When Using Third-Party Brokers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>While some legitimate moving brokers can help connect you with moving companies, fraudulent brokers may charge you extra fees without offering any real services or connecting you to unreliable movers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you choose to work with a broker, ensure they are registered with the FMCSA, and verify the moving company they assign you to before agreeing to any contract.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may also like to read: <a href=\"\/move\/what-is-a-moving-broker\/\">What is a Moving Broker?<\/a> Booking your move through a broker can be a convenient way to find a mover but doing so is not without risks. Whilst the majority will offer a great service, there are scammers out there. This guide tells you all you need to know about moving brokers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"18-6-report-moving-scams-immediately\">6. Report Moving Scams Immediately<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you believe you&#8217;ve fallen victim to a moving scam, take action right away. Reporting fraudulent activity can help recover your losses and prevent others from being scammed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s what to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"19-file-a-complaint-with-the-fmcsa\">File a complaint with the FMCSA<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Visit their website or call their hotline to report fraudulent movers. The Fraud Line Number is 1-888-368-7238.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"20-contact-local-authorities\">Contact local authorities<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If your belongings are being held hostage, contact the police or your state&#8217;s attorney general&#8217;s office to report the scam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find your local Secretary of State office listed at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.activefilings.com\/information\/sos-access\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.activefilings.com<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Report to the Better Business Bureau<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Submit a complaint through the BBB to help others avoid the same fraudulent company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can file a complaint with the BBB <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bbb.org\/file-a-complaint\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Leave a review<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ensure that you leave a review so that others are warned and do not fall victim to shady movers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Leave a review for your mover <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/write-a-review\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"21-7-stay-organized-during-your-move\">7. Stay Organized During Your Move<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Organization is key to a smooth move. Keeping detailed records of contracts, receipts, and communication with your moving company can help you avoid misunderstandings and protect yourself if disputes arise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"22-create-a-moving-folder\">Create a moving folder<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep copies of all documents, including the signed contract, inventory list, and any emails or texts related to your move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"23-label-boxes-clearly\">Label boxes clearly<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Mark boxes with the contents and the room they belong in. This helps movers know where to place them in your new home and makes it easier to check if any items are missing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You may also like to read: <a href=\"\/move\/file-complaint-against-movers\/\">How to File a Complaint Against a Moving Company<\/a>. If you have found yourself a victim of a moving scam then this guide suggests the steps to be taken to help resolve the situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"24-avoiding-moving-scams\">Avoiding Moving Scams<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" data-aspectratio=\"690\/475\" width=\"690\" height=\"475\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.mymovingreviews.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Avoiding-moving-company-scams.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-43505 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Avoiding-moving-company-scams.jpg 690w, https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/Avoiding-moving-company-scams-300x207.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 690px) 100vw, 690px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">A good moving company will ensure a stress-free moving day and a great start to your new life<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Moving scams can turn what should be an exciting new chapter of your life into a stressful nightmare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By doing thorough research, staying vigilant, and recognizing the red flags, you can protect yourself from fraudulent movers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, reputable moving companies are transparent, professional, and dedicated to providing a seamless experience and nothing will make your move easier and less stressful than a good moving company.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But trust your instincts, and if something feels off, don\u2019t be afraid to walk away and choose another mover.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, be sure to visit our <a href=\"\/move\/\">home moving blog<\/a> which is packed with guides to make your home move cheaper, easier, and safer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Good luck with your home move!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Just like any other industry, the moving industry isn\u2019t immune to fraudsters, and home moving scams have become more common in recent years. To protect yourself, it&#8217;s crucial to recognize the warning signs of moving scams and understand how to avoid them. In this guide, we&#8217;ll walk you through practical steps to ensure your move &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/\" class=\"more-link\">Continue reading<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> &#8220;How to Avoid Moving Scams&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":43492,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"ub_ctt_via":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[40],"tags":[24],"class_list":["post-134","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-how-to-choose-a-moving-company","tag-paperwork-regulation","entry"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/05\/How-to-Avoid-Moving-Scams.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Peter Langley","author_link":"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/author\/peter-langley\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v24.8.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How to Avoid Moving Scams - MyMovingReviews<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Once you know how to spot a moving scam you can avoid them. Here we show you how, and what to do if you become a victim of a scam.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/moveadvisor.com\/move\/avoid-moving-scams\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Avoid Moving Scams - MyMovingReviews\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Once you know how to spot a moving scam you can avoid them. 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