How to Avoid Moving Company Scams

Whether you’re relocating across the country or across town, you’ll need help moving your possessions. Moving companies can be a great resource, but stay alert for scams that could ruin your move. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration offers tips for a successful move—including red flags that might indicate you’re being scammed:   

• The mover or broker doesn’t perform an on-site inspection of your household items and gives an estimate over the telephone or online.
• The mover or broker doesn’t provide a written estimate or says they will determine the cost after loading.
• The moving company demands cash or a large deposit before the move.
• The mover asks you to sign blank documents.
• The mover or broker doesn’t provide you with a copy of the Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move booklet and a copy of FMCSA’s Ready to Move brochure, which movers are required by federal regulations to supply to their customers.
• The company’s website has no local address and no information about their registration or insurance.
• The mover claims all goods are covered by their insurance.
• On moving day, a rental truck arrives rather than a company-owned or marked fleet truck.
• The mover claims that you have more belongings than estimated.

Get more resources to ensure a successful move.