10 Signs a Moving Company Is a Scam

Worried about moving scams? Here's what you need to know upfront:

1. No License or Registration: Legitimate movers must have a USDOT number (for interstate moves) or state-specific licenses.
2. Unclear Contracts: Vague terms or missing details can hide surprise fees.
3. Large Upfront Payments: Avoid companies demanding big cash deposits before moving day.
4. No Physical Address: Trustworthy movers operate from a verifiable business location.
5. Too-Low Prices: Extremely cheap quotes often lead to hidden fees later.
6. No In-Person Estimates: Refusing to inspect your belongings can result in inaccurate pricing.
7. Aggressive Sales Tactics: High-pressure techniques like "limited-time offers" are a red flag.
8. Bad Reviews or No Online Presence: Check for consistent feedback and online credibility.
9. Multiple Company Names: Frequent name changes signal shady practices.
10. Ransom Demands: Scammers may hold your belongings hostage for extra fees.

Key Takeaway: Research, verify licenses, and get written estimates to avoid scams. Platforms like MOD24 can connect you with pre-screened, insured movers for a safer experience.

Top 5 Moving Company Scams And Red Flags (2021)

1. Missing License and Registration

One major warning sign of a moving scam is the lack of proper licensing and registration. In the U.S., legitimate moving companies are required to have the appropriate licenses.

For interstate moves, companies must display a USDOT number. This number helps track their safety record, insurance coverage, and compliance with federal regulations. Local moves, however, follow state-specific rules. For example, in California, movers need a valid Cal-T number, while other states may have different requirements.

Here’s how you can verify a mover’s credentials:

• Interstate Moves: Check for the USDOT and MC numbers. Verify these through official databases.
• State-Specific Licenses: Use your state’s transportation authority website to confirm the company meets local regulations.
• Business Registration: Look up the company in your state’s Secretary of State database to ensure it’s registered.

Red flags to watch for include:

• No valid license numbers provided
• Claims that licensing isn’t required
• License numbers that don’t match official records
• Use of multiple or inconsistent license numbers

Tools like MOD24 can make the verification process easier. They help confirm a mover's credentials, protecting you from unlicensed operators who might deliver poor service - or worse, vanish with your belongings.

2. Unclear Contract Terms

A clear, detailed contract is your safeguard when hiring movers. It lays out the services, costs, and schedules, ensuring there are no surprises. If the contract uses vague wording or skips over important details, it could be a red flag for hidden fees or unfavorable conditions.

Just like checking a mover's license, reviewing the contract carefully is a must. If anything seems unclear, ask for written clarification before signing. MOD24 helps you find vetted movers who provide straightforward contracts with all terms clearly outlined.

3. Upfront Cash Payment Requirements

Be cautious of companies that ask for large upfront cash deposits or full payment before your moving day. While some movers may request a small deposit to reserve your booking, most of the payment should follow a clear, written schedule. If a company insists on cash-only payments or demands a significant upfront amount without secure options, it could be a red flag for fraud.

At MOD24, we prioritize transparency by partnering only with verified movers who follow standard payment practices. These movers provide clear, written payment schedules and accept multiple payment methods, including credit cards and checks, for your convenience and security.

Watch out for these warning signs:

• Cash-only payment policies
• Unusually high deposits
• Pressure tactics like "limited-time cash discounts"
• No written payment terms

A trustworthy moving company will address your concerns and offer fair, documented payment terms to ensure a smooth process for both parties.

4. No Real Business Location

A trustworthy moving company will have a physical address you can verify. If a business only uses a P.O. box or operates entirely online, consider it a warning sign.

MOD24 works exclusively with movers that have confirmed, accessible business locations. Here's why this matters:

• Insurance and permits: Many states require moving companies to have a physical address to meet licensing and insurance standards.
• Storage for equipment: Professional movers need space for trucks, dollies, and other essential supplies.
• In-person service: A physical office allows customers to discuss plans or resolve issues face-to-face.

Stay alert for these red flags:

• The company lists only a P.O. box.
• They avoid sharing a physical address.
• The provided address turns out to be a residential property.
• Google Street View shows no signs of a moving company at the listed location.

To confirm a mover’s legitimacy:

• Visit their address during business hours.
• Check local business registrations.
• Search the address on Google Maps or Street View.
• Verify the location with property management.

If you can’t confirm the company’s address, it’s best to look for another mover.

5. Too-Good-To-Be-True Prices

If a moving company offers rates that are far below the average, it’s often a warning sign of a scam. Running a legitimate moving business comes with real expenses like labor, equipment, and insurance. Extremely low quotes are typically a tactic to draw you in before hitting you with surprise fees later.

Here’s how these scams usually work: You’re enticed by a low estimate, but once the job is underway, the company starts adding unexpected charges - things like fuel costs, fees for stairs, or packing materials. Before you know it, your final bill is much higher than you anticipated.

How to protect yourself:

• Compare quotes from multiple companies to get a sense of fair pricing.
• Ask for a binding written estimate to ensure the price can’t suddenly skyrocket.
• Check the company’s licensing and insurance to confirm they’re legitimate.
• Read recent customer reviews to spot patterns of unexpected charges.

MOD24 makes it easier by connecting you with licensed and insured movers who provide clear, upfront pricing. This helps you avoid falling for suspiciously low offers.

Stay alert - other warning signs might pop up as your move progresses.

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6. No In-Person Estimates

If a moving company refuses to provide an in-person estimate, it could be a warning sign of a scam. Reputable movers need to see your belongings in person to give an accurate quote and plan for the move properly.

Estimates done over the phone or online often miss important details, such as:

• The size and weight of your items
• Challenges like stairs, elevators, or tight spaces
• Special packing needs
• Parking or access limitations
• Large items requiring special equipment

These missed details can lead to surprise fees on moving day. Without a proper inspection, movers might later claim your load is heavier or includes more items than you initially reported.

Steps to Protect Yourself

• Ask for an in-person or virtual survey to ensure accuracy.
• Get a written, binding estimate to avoid unexpected costs.
• Document your items and save all communication for reference.

For added peace of mind, consider using MOD24. Their network of licensed, insured, and verified movers has an impressive 4.6 out of 5 rating based on 370 reviews.

If a mover refuses to provide an in-person or virtual estimate, it’s a strong indicator to look elsewhere for a reliable company. Choose a verified mover instead.

7. Aggressive Sales Methods

Aggressive sales tactics, like unclear contract terms or demanding upfront payments, are often red flags for scams. Trustworthy moving companies understand that relocation requires careful planning and won’t pressure you into hasty decisions.

Common Pressure Tactics to Look Out For

• Fake urgency: Phrases like "This rate is only valid for 24 hours" or "We only have one slot left for your move."
• Too-good-to-be-true discounts: Huge price cuts offered only if you commit immediately.
• Constant follow-ups: Daily calls or messages pushing for instant decisions.
• Guilt trips: Attempts to make you feel at fault for delays or scheduling issues.
• Rushed contracts: Insisting you sign without enough time to review the terms.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Set clear boundaries: Let the company know you'll reach out when you're ready.
2. Keep detailed records: Save all communications, including dates and any high-pressure tactics.
3. Take your time: Carefully review terms before signing or making payments.

Be wary if the company:

• Won’t provide written estimates
• Avoids answering questions about licensing or insurance
• Makes verbal promises that don’t match the written terms

These behaviors, combined with other warning signs, can indicate an untrustworthy company. Reliable movers prioritize understanding your needs over pressuring you into fast decisions. Using a platform like MOD24 can help you find pre-screened, professional movers who meet high service standards.

Red Flags in Communication

Pay attention to these troubling patterns:

• Repeated calls without leaving voicemails
• Threats to give your moving date to someone else
• Refusal to provide detailed quotes via email
• Sudden changes to quoted prices during conversations

Take the time to research and compare your options. A legitimate moving company will respect your need to plan your move thoroughly.

8. Bad Reviews or No Online History

A moving company's online presence can tell you a lot about its reliability. Companies you can trust usually have verifiable customer feedback. Here’s how to evaluate a mover’s online credibility.

Red Flags in Online Reviews

Watch out for these warning signs in reviews:

• A flood of 5-star reviews posted in a very short time
• Generic comments that don’t mention specific aspects of the move
• Reviews with identical wording
• Frequent complaints about damaged items or surprise fees
• Reports of late deliveries

Lack of an Online Presence

If a company has little to no online presence, that’s a concern too. Legitimate movers should have:

• Profiles on major review platforms
• Detailed company information on their website
• A physical address that can be verified
• A professional presence on social media
• Registration with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)

Tips for Researching Movers

• Check Multiple Review Platforms
  Don’t just rely on the company’s website. Look at reviews on independent platforms to get a clearer view of their service quality.
• Evaluate the Quality of Reviews
  Real reviews often include specific service dates, detailed experiences, and a mix of positive and constructive feedback.
• Verify Business Details
  Confirm the company’s contact information, business license, office location, professional website, and clear pricing.

MOD24 helps by connecting you with verified movers, complete with live customer reviews and detailed company information.

9. Multiple Company Names

Using multiple business names is another red flag for potential scams. Fraudulent movers often tweak their names to dodge detection and avoid bad reviews.

Common Tricks to Watch For

• Different names appearing on estimates, contracts, and service vehicles
• Slight spelling changes (like "AAA Moving" vs. "Triple A Moving")
• Use of "DBA" (Doing Business As) names without proper registration
• Multiple names linked to the same contact details or address
• Names that closely imitate reputable moving companies
• Recent changes in business registrations
• Shared phone numbers across several company names

These tactics are designed to confuse and mislead customers, but you can take steps to verify a mover's identity.

Steps to Confirm a Mover's Identity

• Check your state's Secretary of State database to verify the company name.
• Confirm their USDOT number - legitimate interstate movers have a unique number.
• Examine all paperwork for consistent branding, including:
  • Business licenses
  • Insurance documents
  • Marketing materials
  • Company vehicles
  • Employee uniforms

MOD24 helps protect you from these scams by thoroughly vetting movers listed on their platform. They verify each company's legal name and licensing credentials to ensure reliability.

A trustworthy moving company keeps a consistent identity. Frequent name changes or multiple names often signal attempts to mask poor practices or fraudulent behavior.

10. Ransom Demands for Property

Some dishonest movers may hold your belongings hostage, demanding extra fees beyond what was agreed upon. This tactic can leave you stuck and frustrated.

Warning Signs Before the Move

Watch out for these signs that could indicate trouble ahead:

• Extremely low initial estimates that seem unrealistic
• Mentions of extra fees during the loading process
• Pressure to sign blank or incomplete paperwork

These clues often signal a plan to demand more money later on.

Common Ransom Tactics

Here’s how these scams usually play out:

1. Initial Deception
   The movers give you a reasonable estimate, collect a deposit, and load your belongings onto their truck.
2. Mid-Move Manipulation
   Once your items are loaded, they may claim extra fees for:
   • Heavy or oversized items
   • Fuel charges or other unexpected costs
   • Using stairs or elevators
   • Adjusting for a "miscalculated" volume of items
3. Final Extortion
   They refuse to deliver or unload your items unless you pay a much higher amount than the original quote, often demanding immediate payment.

How to Protect Yourself

To avoid falling victim to these scams, take these precautions:

• Get a binding estimate in writing before the move.
• Take photos of your inventory for documentation.
• Verify the mover’s credentials, including their USDOT number.
• Keep copies of all agreements and paperwork.

If your items are being held hostage:

• Contact the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
• File a police report right away.
• Document all interactions with the movers.
• Avoid paying in cash or wire transfers - keep receipts and written records.

Using MOD24’s network connects you with carefully vetted movers, helping you steer clear of these extortion schemes.

Conclusion

Moving scams can lead to financial losses and unnecessary stress. Recognizing the warning signs is the first step to safeguarding your belongings and ensuring a smooth relocation.

Common Warning Signs

• Missing Documentation: Absence of a USDOT number or proper licensing.
• Payment Issues: Demands for cash-only payments or unusually low estimates.
• Shady Business Practices: Lack of a physical address, use of multiple company names, or unclear contracts.
• Poor Customer Service: No in-person estimates or use of high-pressure sales tactics.

What to Do If You're Scammed

If you suspect you're dealing with a moving scam, act quickly:

• Contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• Reach out to your state's consumer protection office.
• File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Keep thorough documentation, including photos, emails, and written records.
• Save copies of all receipts and contracts.

Secure Your Move with Verified Services

Once you've spotted the red flags, opt for a trusted moving service to ensure peace of mind. MOD24 connects you with movers who are licensed, insured, and committed to providing a safe and transparent experience.

"Every local and long-distance moving helper featured on Mod24 is licensed, verified, and insured. Our commitment is to deliver a professional customer experience, regardless of your relocation destination. With Mod24, a secure and simple move is assured for all."

Reputable movers will always:

• Offer detailed written estimates.
• Hold valid licenses and insurance.
• Operate with clear and honest business practices.
• Maintain open communication throughout your move.