To avoid moving nightmares, it’s essential to thoroughly research movers before hiring them. Keep an eye out for these red flags:
- ✅ Estimate Given by Phone or Email Without a Survey
Example: Imagine a mover quotes you a price just by hearing what you need to move over the phone. Without seeing your items in person or via a virtual tour, they could easily underestimate or overestimate the job. Insist on an on-site or virtual survey for accuracy—a written estimate should always be provided. - ✅ Large Deposit Demands
Example: If a mover asks for a significant deposit upfront, it’s a red flag. Reputable movers typically request a small deposit or none at all. Picture booking a mover and paying a large sum, only for them to vanish before moving day. - ✅ No PUC or MC License Number Displayed
Example: You’re browsing a mover’s website and notice there’s no state Public Utility Commission (PUC) or MC license number, or it’s missing from the estimate form and Bill of Lading. This is a legal requirement, so its absence could indicate an unlicensed or unscrupulous mover. Always look for a license number and a physical address. - ✅ Generic Name Answering the Phone
Example: You call a moving company, and they answer with a vague name like “Movers” instead of the company’s specific name. This could be a tactic to avoid accountability. A legitimate company will answer with its full, registered name. - ✅ Not Listed with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Example: A quick search on the BBB website shows no listing for the mover you’re considering. The BBB helps track customer complaints and reviews—no listing could be a sign of a fly-by-night operation. You can also check moving reviews on Movers Near Me. - ✅ No “Information for Shippers” Form Provided
Example: By law, movers are required to provide you with an “Information for Shippers” form detailing your rights and responsibilities. If they don’t, they might be trying to sidestep legal obligations or deceive you about the terms of service. - ✅ Bad Reviews on Angie’s List, Yelp, Google, etc.
Example: Reading through reviews, you find multiple complaints about missed deadlines, damaged items, and poor customer service. While a few negative reviews can happen to any company, a pattern of bad experiences is a serious warning sign. - ✅ Unmarked Truck on Moving Day
Example: The movers show up in an unmarked truck. This could mean they are not a legitimate company and might not be insured. Before allowing them to load your belongings, verify their credentials. - ✅ Suspiciously Low Quote
Example: If a mover offers you a deal that’s much lower than all the others, be cautious. It might be a bait-and-switch tactic, where they later add hidden fees or hold your belongings hostage for more money. - ✅ Missing PUC, USDOT, or MC Numbers
Example: The mover’s website lacks a PUC, USDOT, or MC number, or the USDOT number provided doesn’t match the federal government’s listing. This could indicate they are not properly registered or are operating under false pretenses. Always cross-check these numbers at fmcsa.dot.gov.
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