Hey there! Moving to a new home can be like starting a new adventure. But there’s something important you need to know about moving scams. Some sneaky people out there might try to trick you during your move. Don’t worry, though! With a few smart tips and some detective work, you can avoid moving scams and have a smooth, safe move. Ready to become a moving scam-busting expert? Let’s dive in!

First, let’s talk about some tricks bad movers might use. Knowing these can help you spot trouble from a mile away. One common scam is the “low-ball estimate.” This is when a mover gives you a super low price to get you to hire them. But once they have your stuff, they demand much more money to return it.
Another trick is asking for a large upfront deposit. Honest movers usually ask for a small deposit or none at all. If someone wants a lot of money before starting, that’s a big red flag. Some scammers might also say they don’t have an actual address or use rental trucks instead of their branded ones.
These are just a few examples, but they show why it is so important to look for anything that seems off. Let’s move on to some ways to protect yourself.

Research is your best friend when you’re planning a move. Start by looking up different moving companies online. Check their websites, read reviews like Yelp or Google, and see what other customers say. Look for companies with many good reviews and a professional-looking website.
It’s also good to check if the company is registered with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or other trusted organizations. These places keep track of complaints and can tell you if a company has a bad reputation. Another smart move is to ask friends or family for recommendations. If someone you know had a good experience with a mover, that’s a great sign.
Doing a little research can avoid many problems and find a trustworthy mover.

Now, let’s discuss some specific red flags to watch out for. Looking for a different moving company is a good idea if you see any of these. First, if a mover won’t give you a written estimate, that’s a problem. A good mover will always give you a detailed quote in writing.
Another red flag is if they only give you an estimate over the phone or online without seeing your stuff in person. It’s hard to provide an accurate price without seeing what needs to be moved. Also, be wary if the company has no physical address or only uses a P.O. Box.
If the movers show up in a rental truck instead of a branded company truck, that’s another warning sign. It could mean they’re not a legitimate company. And, of course, if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
By looking for these red flags, you can avoid bad movers and have a safer, smoother move.

Protecting your valuables is super important when you’re moving. One way to do this is by packing your most precious items yourself. Things like jewelry, important documents, and small electronics should stay with you, not in the moving truck. This way, you can keep an eye on them and make sure they’re safe.
Another great tip is to take photos of your items before the move. It can help you prove their condition if something gets damaged or goes missing. It’s also wise to get moving insurance. Many reputable movers offer insurance that covers your items in case something happens.
Labeling your boxes clearly with your name and new address can also help prevent mix-ups. And if you’re worried, you can even use a small lock on some of your boxes. Taking these precautions can help ensure that your valuables stay safe and sound during the move.

1. Are you licensed and insured? Make sure the mover has the proper licenses and insurance. It protects you in case something goes wrong.
2. Can you provide references? A good mover should be able to give you names of past customers who were happy with their service.
3. What is included in the estimate? Make sure you understand exactly what services are included in the price and if there are any extra fees.
4. Do you have your trucks and equipment? It can help ensure they are an honest company, not just a few guys with a rented truck.
5. How do you handle complaints or disputes? Knowing their process for resolving issues can give you peace of mind.

By asking these questions, you can better understand whether the moving company is trustworthy and avoid scams.

• Stairs: Some movers charge extra if they have to carry items up or down stairs.
• Long Carries: If the distance from your door to the truck is far, there might be an additional charge.
• Fuel Surcharges: Some companies add extra fuel costs, especially long-distance moves.
• Packing Materials: Make sure you know if the cost of packing materials is included in your estimate.
• Storage: If your move-in date is delayed, you might need storage. Ask about these fees in advance.

Understanding these potential hidden fees allows you to better budget for your move and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Securing your belongings is critical to avoiding moving scams. Start by creating an inventory of all your items. List everything you’re moving, and note the condition of each item. It will help you keep track of your stuff and make it easier to file a claim if something goes missing or gets damaged.
Consider using tamper-evident seals on your boxes. These seals will show if someone has opened the box, which can be helpful if you suspect theft. Another great idea is to use a GPS tracker in your moving truck. Some companies offer this service, so you can always know where your belongings are.
Finally, supervise the loading and unloading of your items. Being present can deter thieves and help ensure everything is handled carefully.

• Avoid Cash: Paying in cash can be risky because it’s hard to track and recover if something goes wrong.
• Use Credit Cards: They offer fraud protection and the ability to dispute charges.
• Get a Receipt: Always get a written receipt for any payments you make.
• Agree on Payment Terms: Ensure you understand when and how the final payment is due.

These payment tips can protect you from scams and ensure a smoother moving process.

Verifying a mover’s credentials is one of the best ways to avoid moving scams. Start by checking their license. In the U.S., interstate movers should be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can look up their license number on the FMCSA website.
Check with your state’s moving association or consumer protection agency for local moves. Also, ask the company for proof of insurance. Legitimate movers will have insurance to cover any damage to your items.
Another smart move is to visit their physical office. This can help you confirm they’re a real company with a real address. If a company refuses to provide any of this information, it’s a big red flag.

If you think you’ve been scammed, don’t panic. There are steps you can take to report and prevent moving scams. First, contact your mover and try to resolve the issue directly. If that doesn’t work, file a complaint with the FMCSA, Better Business Bureau, or your state’s consumer protection office.
You can also warn others by leaving reviews online. Share your experience on review sites and social media to help others avoid the same problems. Educating your friends and family about moving scams can also help prevent them from becoming victims.

Moving should be an exciting new chapter in your life, not a stressful experience filled with scams. By recognizing the risks, researching, and being aware of red flags, you can avoid moving scams and enjoy a smooth transition to your new home. Protect your valuables, ask the right questions, and choose reliable payment methods to safeguard your move. Remember, taking a little extra time to verify credentials and prepare properly can save you a lot of headaches down the road. With these tips in your toolbox, you’re now equipped to tackle your move confidently and safely, keeping those sneaky moving scams at bay.
Moving to a new home is a big step, but with the proper precautions and awareness, you can make sure it’s a positive experience. Trust your instincts, stay vigilant, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or walk away if something feels wrong. Here’s to a smooth, scam-free move and an excellent start in your new home!
Happy moving!