Moving is like life — full of surprises, but some surprises you definitely want to avoid.
If you’ve ever moved before, you know what we mean. There’s the excitement of a new place, but then there’s also the headache of packing, logistics, and dealing with moving companies.
Now, if you’re thinking about hiring a moving company for your big day, listen up because this is where things can either go smoothly or turn into a total disaster.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, around 31 million people pack up and head to a new home annually.
However, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) gets thousands of complaints every single year about moving companies. We're talking about moving company scams, damaged goods, delayed deliveries, and surprise fees coming out of nowhere.
So, before you start Googling “reliable moving companies near me” and booking the first one with a decent price, you have to know what’s lurking beneath the surface.
There are plenty of moving company red flags that can cost you big time.
Don’t stress; we’ll cover all the warning signs when hiring movers so you can dodge the scams, figure out what to look for in a mover, and get tips on how to choose a moving company that won’t leave you hanging.
Why Should You Care About These Red Flags?
Moving is stressful enough, and the last thing you want is to add moving drama to it.
The reality is moving industry is packed with people trying to pull a fast one.
Did you know that according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, thousands of complaints flood every year about movers ripping people off or messing up their stuff?
When you’re hiring a moving company, spotting these red flags early is like having a superpower — it keeps your belongings safe and your wallet intact.
Feeling overwhelmed with your first move? Check out our ultimate guide on Moving Out For the First Time Checklist to make your move smooth and stress-free.
Common Moving Company Scams You Need to Watch Out For
Unfortunately, moving company scams are very real and can ruin your move. Here are some typical tricks scammers use:
The “Lowball” Trap
You know that deal that sounds too good to be true? It usually is.
Some movers will give you a dirt-cheap estimate just to get their foot in the door. Once your stuff's loaded, they'll hit you with a massive bill that's double or even triple the original price.
It’s like buying a cheap plane ticket and ending up paying for every extra ounce of luggage plus peanuts.
How to avoid it: Always get multiple quotes and ask for a written estimate. If it’s suspiciously low, wave goodbye.
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Holding Your Stuff Hostage
Imagine this: Your furniture is packed up and ready to roll, but the movers suddenly go radio silent. There is no delivery, no calls, nothing.
They’ll only bring your stuff back if you give more money. This isn’t just a nightmare; it’s downright criminal.
How to avoid it: Make sure you hire licensed and insured movers. Without proper licensing, they can pull this stunt without legal consequences.
The “No Paperwork” Houdini
If they don’t want to put things in writing, that’s a big red flag. No written contract? No clear pricing? That’s like agreeing to a date without knowing where you’re going or what time.
How to avoid it: Demand a written contract with all details — pricing, dates, services, everything.
The “Unlicensed” Move
Some companies look legit but aren’t licensed. This means they might not have insurance or the proper qualifications, so if your couch falls through the floor, you’re out of luck.
How to avoid it: Check their USDOT number and verify their insurance. It’s your best protection.
Want to know more common moving scams and how to dodge them like a pro? Check out these Common Moving Scams and How to Avoid Them.
The Telltale Signs of a Bad Moving Company
Sometimes, the red flags aren’t obvious scams but subtle hints that things could go south.
Here are some signs that scream, "Run away!"
No Physical Address or Local Office
If the company only gives you a P.O. box or refuses to share a real address, that’s shady. Real companies have offices you can visit or at least verify.
Poor or Negative Online Reputation
Got zero reviews? Or a bunch of angry customers complaining? If you google their name and get more horror stories than happy tales, hit the brakes.
You can check out moving company reviews and complaints on multiple platforms, such as Google, BBB and My Moving Journey, and weigh what people say.
Pressure to Book Now
Ever had a salesperson make you feel like you’re going to miss the deal of a lifetime if you don’t book ASAP? That’s a red flag. Reliable companies let you take your time.
Large Upfront Deposits
Watch out if they demand more than 20% upfront. Big deposits can mean trouble, especially with untrustworthy movers.
How to Know What to Look for in a Mover
Picking the right mover is like dating; you want to find someone reliable and honest who won't ghost you halfway through.
- Licensed and Insured: You want movers who have the proper licenses and insurance because it means they're legit, and your stuff is protected if anything goes wrong. Always ask for their USDOT number and insurance details before you commit.
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Transparent Pricing: A good mover will give you a clear estimate upfront, so you know exactly what you’re paying for—no sneaky add-ons or hidden charges.
- Good Reviews: Real, honest reviews from past customers can tell you a lot. Look for movers with plenty of positive feedback and watch out for repeated complaints or patterns of bad experiences.
- Experience: Movers who’ve been in the industry for a while usually know what they’re doing. They’ve handled all kinds of moves and have systems in place to keep things running smoothly.
- Clear Communication: If they’re patient, answer your questions clearly, and don’t make you feel dumb for asking, that’s a good sign. You want a mover who treats you like a person, not just a paycheck.
Every successful move starts with a solid plan. Get our step-by-step guide on How to Plan a Move and move with confidence.
Pro Tips — How to Choose a Moving Company Like a Boss
Now that you know what to watch out for, here’s how to pick the moving company that won’t give you headaches.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be moving like a pro without the stress:
Shop Around: Don’t just settle for the first quote that lands in your inbox. Getting at least 3 or 4 estimates gives you a good idea of what the market rates are and helps you spot the fair deals versus the scams.
Ask for References: You can’t always trust flashy websites or slick marketing. The best way to know if a moving company is legit is by talking to people who’ve actually used their services.
Read the Fine Print: Contracts might make your eyes glaze over, but this is where the real info lives. Don’t sign anything without understanding exactly what services are included, what might cost extra, and what the cancellation or delay policies are.
Look for Extra Services: Moving isn’t just loading and unloading — sometimes you’ll need help with packing, unpacking, or even storing your stuff temporarily. Make sure to ask about these extras up front so you can budget accordingly and avoid surprise fees later.
Check for Complaints: Even the best companies can have a few bad days, but a history of unresolved complaints is a huge red flag. Check out the Better Business Bureau, FMCSA, and other official sites to see if your movers have any skeletons in their closet.
Don’t Just Pick The Top Result Blindly
When you type “reliable moving companies near me” into Google, don’t just pick the top result blindly. Some companies pay to be #1, but that doesn’t mean they’re the best.
Here’s what to do:
- Look beyond the first page.
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Check reviews carefully for consistency.
- Call and talk to the company directly.
- Ask about their licensing and insurance right away.
Don’t roll the dice on your move. Explore our Best Long Distance Moving Companies in the USA and choose a mover you can rely on.
Quick Recap on Spotting the Red Flags
| Red Flag | Why It’s Bad | How to Dodge It |
|---|---|---|
| Unlicensed movers | No insurance or legal backing | Verify licenses & insurance |
| Super-low estimates | Hidden fees or scams | Get multiple quotes |
| No contract | No proof or recourse | Insist on a written contract |
| Big upfront deposit | Potential scam or job skipping | Limit deposits to under 20% |
| No physical address | Could be a fly-by-night company | Check for real office location |
| Bad or no reviews | Possible poor service | Read reviews on multiple sites |
| Pushy sales tactics | Pressure to rush decision | Take your time, don’t get pressured |
Final Thoughts
When you’re hiring a moving company, look for these sneaky red flags. Do your homework, don't rush, and trust your gut.
If something feels off—whether it's a weirdly low price, no paperwork, or pushy sales calls—it probably is. Pick a mover with a solid rep, and you’ll be moving into your new place without a care in the world.
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