Long Distance Moving Scams: How to Protect Yourself
Learn about common moving scams, warning signs to watch for, and how to choose legitimate moving companies to protect your belongings and wallet.
Types of Moving Scams to Watch For
Understanding these common scams helps you stay protected
Low-Ball Estimates
Scammers offer extremely low estimates to get your business, then demand much more money on moving day
⚠️ Warning Signs:
- Estimate significantly lower than competitors
- Refuses to do in-home survey
- Pressure to sign immediately
- Vague or incomplete contract
✅ How to Avoid:
- Get at least 3 written estimates
- Ensure in-home survey is done
- Read contract thoroughly
- Ask for detailed breakdown of costs
Rogue Movers
Unlicensed movers who hold your belongings hostage until you pay inflated fees
⚠️ Warning Signs:
- No physical address or office
- Unlicensed or uninsured
- Demands large upfront payment
- Uses rental trucks instead of company vehicles
✅ How to Avoid:
- Verify DOT number and license
- Check physical address
- Read online reviews
- Never pay full amount upfront
Bait and Switch
Company advertises one service but provides something completely different
⚠️ Warning Signs:
- Different company name on contract
- Different phone number than advertised
- Subcontracts to other companies
- Refuses to provide written estimates
✅ How to Avoid:
- Verify company identity
- Get everything in writing
- Ask about subcontractors
- Check company registration
Storage Scams
Movers claim your items need storage and charge excessive fees
⚠️ Warning Signs:
- Unexpected storage charges
- Items held longer than necessary
- Inability to access stored items
- Excessive storage fees
✅ How to Avoid:
- Ask about storage policies upfront
- Get storage costs in writing
- Choose your own storage facility
- Understand storage terms
Red Flags Checklist
If you see any of these warning signs, avoid the moving company
Requires cash payment only
No written contract or estimate
Unusually low estimate
Pressure to sign immediately
No physical address
Unlicensed or uninsured
Demands large upfront payment
Uses rental trucks
Different company name on contract
Refuses to provide references
No online presence or reviews
Won't provide DOT number
How to Verify Legitimate Movers
Follow these steps to ensure you're working with a legitimate moving company
Check DOT Number
Verify the company's Department of Transportation number
Visit fmcsa.dot.gov to verify DOT number and safety record
Verify Insurance
Ensure the company has proper insurance coverage
Ask for proof of insurance and verify with insurance company
Read Reviews
Check online reviews and ratings
Look at Google, Yelp, BBB, and moving-specific review sites
Get Written Estimates
Always get detailed written estimates
Get at least 3 estimates and compare them carefully
Check Physical Address
Verify the company has a real physical location
Visit the office or verify address through Google Maps
Ask for References
Request references from recent customers
Contact references and ask about their experience
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
If you believe you've been scammed, take these immediate steps
Don't pay additional money
Document everything
File complaint with FMCSA
Contact local authorities
Report to Better Business Bureau
Share your experience online
Consider legal action
Work With Trusted, Licensed Movers
Don't take chances with your belongings. Choose Network Moving - a licensed, insured, and trusted moving company with a proven track record.
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