Common Moving Scams and How to Avoid Them

Moving to a new home is a significant life event, and the last thing you need is to fall victim to a moving scam. Unfortunately, dishonest movers and fraudulent companies do exist, and they often target people during the stressful process of relocating. To help you protect yourself, First Rate Moving and Storage has put together a guide on the most common moving scams and how to avoid them.

1. Lowball Estimates

One of the most common moving scams is the “lowball estimate.” In this scenario, a moving company offers you an unbelievably low estimate to win your business. However, once your belongings are loaded onto the truck, the price suddenly skyrockets, often with hidden fees and charges that were not disclosed upfront.

How to Avoid It:

• Get Multiple Quotes: Always obtain at least three estimates from different moving companies to compare prices. Be wary of any quote that is significantly lower than the others.
• Request a Written Estimate: Ensure the estimate is provided in writing and includes all potential charges. Be cautious of companies that only offer verbal estimates.

2. Demanding Large Upfront Deposits

Another red flag is a moving company that demands a large deposit upfront, often in cash. Once they have your money, they may disappear or deliver subpar service, leaving you with little recourse.

How to Avoid It:

• Pay a Reasonable Deposit: Reputable movers may ask for a small deposit to secure your moving date, but it should never be more than 20% of the estimated cost. Avoid companies that demand full payment before the move.
• Use Credit Cards: Whenever possible, pay with a credit card rather than cash or a check. Credit card payments provide additional protection and allow you to dispute charges if necessary.

3. Holding Your Belongings Hostage

In this scam, movers load your belongings onto the truck and then refuse to deliver them until you pay an inflated fee. This “hostage” situation can leave you feeling trapped and helpless, especially if you’re moving long distance.

How to Avoid It:

• Verify Licensing: Check that the moving company is properly licensed and insured. In the U.S., interstate movers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• Research the Company: Read reviews and check the company’s reputation with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) before hiring. Avoid companies with a history of complaints or negative reviews.

4. Last-Minute Change of Terms

Some unscrupulous movers may agree to one set of terms only to change them at the last minute. This can include increasing the price, altering the delivery date, or changing the payment method.

How to Avoid It:

• Get Everything in Writing: Ensure that all agreements, including pricing, services, and timelines, are documented in a contract. Review the contract carefully before signing.
• Confirm Details Before Moving Day: Double-check all details with the moving company a few days before your move to ensure there are no surprises.

5. Fly-by-Night Movers

These are companies that seem to appear out of nowhere, often operating without a physical address or website. They may offer cheap rates, but once you’ve paid, they’re impossible to contact.

How to Avoid It:

• Verify Contact Information: A legitimate moving company should have a physical address, a working phone number, and an established online presence.
• Check for Red Flags: Be cautious of movers who use rental trucks, have no company logo, or refuse to provide written contracts.

6. Uninsured or Underinsured Movers

Some moving companies may cut corners by operating without the proper insurance. This leaves you vulnerable if your belongings are damaged, lost, or stolen during the move.

How to Avoid It:

• Ask for Proof of Insurance: Always request proof of insurance from the moving company. Make sure they have adequate coverage to protect your belongings.
• Consider Additional Insurance: Depending on the value of your belongings, you may want to purchase additional moving insurance for extra peace of mind.

7. Bait-and-Switch Tactics

In this scam, a moving company promises one thing but delivers something entirely different. For example, they might promise full-service moving only to show up with inadequate equipment or an inexperienced crew.

How to Avoid It:

• Read the Contract Carefully: Make sure the contract explicitly states the services being provided. Don’t rely on verbal promises.
• Choose Established Companies: Opt for well-known, reputable moving companies with a proven track record of customer satisfaction.

Protecting yourself from these common moving scams requires vigilance and due diligence. By taking the time to research moving companies, getting everything in writing, and being aware of common red flags, you can ensure a safe and successful move. At First Rate Moving and Storage, we pride ourselves on our transparency, reliability, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can make your move stress-free.