How To Avoid The 5 Worst Moving Company Scams

By Travis Few | December 9, 2016

Moving can be a difficult time, with a million details to manage. The last thing you need is a moving company that tries to scam you!

Although most moving companies are honest, it’s important to keep an eye out for moving scams so you don’t get snookered on moving day. Here are the five top moving scams and how to avoid them.

1. Who’s That No-Name Mover?

If your mover just showed up in an unmarked truck, beware! Reputable moving companies have clearly labeled trucks with a company logo—they want to show off who they are. To avoid scams, know your movers:

Moving companies should have a website, paperwork with a company logo, and a business at a real physical location.
Research each moving company by checking online reviews. Ask for references if you aren’t sure.
All moving companies should be licensed and registered with the DOT.

2. Too Good to Be True? Lowball Estimates

Everyone wants a good deal, but some deals are too good to be true.

Movers should look at the contents of your house before offering an estimate.
Examine your estimate carefully and ask about additional fees. Some movers offer a low estimate and tack on charges on moving day.
Is the estimate binding? Is the company licensed and insured?

3. Surprise Charges Appearing Now

Unscrupulous moving companies may add clauses to your contract after you’ve agreed to the original estimate. Such charges might include:

A driver’s fee
Extra time required
Mileage

The moving company may hold your belongings hostage until you pay these surprise charges. Make sure you know about all charges before you sign your contract to avoid a moving scam.

4. Cash-Only Movers

You’ll want a paper trail of your moving agreement. If anything goes wrong, you’ll have records to fall back on. That means not only getting written estimates and contracts, but paying by credit card or certified check.

Reputable movers won’t ask for cash transactions, and never, ever cash up front. The only cash that should change hands would be in tips for your movers which is never expected but always appreciated.

5. Avoid Moving-Day Weight Gain

One bait-and-switch scam is to estimate your move in weight, then charge you by cubic feet—or vice versa. Don’t fall for this. Hold the moving company to the original contract with a guaranteed price.

Choose Few Moves Moving Company to Avoid Scams

Few Moves Moving Company prides itself on honesty and quality. We provide free moving consultations and custom estimates to avoid any moving-day surprises. Few Moves offers: