Moving Company Scams: Red Flags and How to Protect Yourself

Moving should be an exciting new chapter, not an opportunity for criminals to take advantage of people. Unfortunately, moving company scams are on the rise, with fake movers tricking thousands of families each year through shady contracts, hidden fees, and even stolen belongings. According to the Better Business Bureau, over 100,000 inquiries about moving companies were made on BBB.org in 2024, and 718 formal complaints were filed against movers that year, underscoring just how prevalent these scams have become. Consumers who fell victim to moving scams reported a median loss of $754, a stark reminder of how quickly a move can turn costly.

In response to this growing threat, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) launched “Operation Protect Your Move” in 2023. This nationwide enforcement campaign targets fraudulent movers and brokers with egregious consumer complaints and serious safety violations. The 2024 FMCSA final report highlights how the initiative conducted 62 investigations, addressed 380 household goods complaints, including 128 involving hostage possessions, and identified numerous safety and commercial violations. These enforcement efforts demonstrate tangible progress in protecting American families from moving fraud.

The good news: most of these scams follow a predictable pattern. If you know what to look for, you can protect yourself before signing any agreement. Much like investing in a reliable home security system, taking time to safeguard your move up front can save you from major losses later. Below are the most common red flags of fake moving companies and how to avoid them.

1. They Only Give You an Over-the-Phone Estimate

One of the biggest red flags of a moving scam is when a company promises you a price without ever seeing what needs to be moved. Legitimate movers know that costs depend on distance, weight, and the size of your home. These details that can only be verified in person.

If a mover won’t provide an on-site or virtual walkthrough, assume the estimate is unreliable and likely a setup for hidden charges later. Protect yourself by always requesting a written in-home estimate before committing to a contract. Just as you’d verify the placement and setup of motion detectors before relying on them, you should never trust an estimate that isn’t backed by an in-person review.

2. They Tempt You With an Unbelievably Low Estimate 

If a price sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Fake moving companies lure customers with unusually cheap quotes, then pile on hidden fees once your belongings are loaded. This tactic is one of the most common moving company scams. The initial lowball price is just bait.

Protect yourself by comparing at least three written estimates from reputable movers and questioning any company that won’t break down costs clearly.

3. They Demand a Large Upfront Cash Deposit

Legitimate movers don’t require big deposits before a move. A modest reservation fee is normal, but if a company asks for hundreds of dollars in cash before loading a single box, it’s likely a scam.

Once they have your money, dishonest movers can disappear or hold your belongings hostage until you pay even more. Always pay with a traceable method, and avoid companies that pressure you into large deposits. The same principle applies at home. You want systems that give you accountability and control, like smart door locks that track access and prevent unwanted entry.

4. They Hide Fees or Refuse Transparent Pricing

Another hallmark of moving scams is unclear pricing. Shady movers often tack on surprise charges for stairs, elevators, long carries, or even fuel without ever mentioning them upfront. By the time you see the bill, it’s far higher than the original estimate.

Reputable movers are upfront about potential surcharges and put everything in writing. Before you sign, ask detailed questions about fees and make sure every possible charge is spelled out in your estimate. Transparency is a sign of a trustworthy company. The same kind of clarity you should expect when choosing door and window sensors or other home security devices.

5. They Don’t Have a Real Address or Are Hard to Find Online

A legitimate moving company should have a verifiable physical address, a working phone number, and a professional online presence. If the only way to reach them is through a vague form or a disconnected line, you may be dealing with a scam.

Check the company’s credentials before signing anything. Search their address, confirm licensing information, and read reviews from multiple sources. If their online footprint is nearly invisible, it’s a major warning sign of a fake moving company, much like how you wouldn’t rely on security cameras that don’t provide a clear, dependable view of what’s happening around your home.

6. They Can’t Prove Licensing or Registration

Legitimate movers are required to register with the U.S. Department of Transportation and, in many states, hold state licenses. Fake moving companies often avoid this because they don’t want oversight. Always ask for the mover’s DOT number and verify it through the official mover lookup tool. If they dodge the question or refuse to provide it, that’s a red flag.

7. They Threaten to Hold Your Belongings Hostage

One of the most devastating moving scams happens after the truck is loaded. Some dishonest movers demand more money before delivering your items, essentially holding your belongings hostage. This practice is illegal, but it still happens. Protect yourself by insisting on a clear, written contract that spells out all costs before moving day, and never hand over cash to an unverified mover. For added peace of mind, think of it like installing glass break sensors, they provide instant alerts when something’s wrong, giving you the chance to act before the situation escalates.

8. They Avoid Talking About Insurance Coverage

Reputable movers should explain what liability coverage they provide for your belongings. Scammers, on the other hand, avoid the topic or give vague answers. If a company won’t explain their insurance policies in writing, or if they push you to sign quickly without coverage details, take it as a warning sign.

9. They Turn Out to Be Brokers, Not Actual Movers

Some companies that advertise moving services are just brokers who sell your job to another carrier. This can lead to confusion, surprise charges, and less accountability if something goes wrong. Always ask directly: will the company you’re hiring be the one handling your move? If they can’t answer clearly, look elsewhere.

Do Your Research Before Hiring Movers

The best defense against moving company scams is careful research. Before you hire, read customer reviews, check the company’s standing with the Better Business Bureau, and confirm they’re properly licensed and insured.

Always get at least three written estimates from reputable movers and compare them carefully. Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions about deposits, fees, and contracts. A legitimate company will give clear answers. Finally, familiarize yourself with your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move, a guide published by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Knowing the rules puts you in control and makes it harder for scammers to take advantage.

And when it comes to protecting your home, the same logic applies. Choosing proven home security packages ensures you’re investing in trustworthy protection instead of risky shortcuts.

Double down on peace of mind with a Guardian Protection home security system. Call 1.800.PROTECT (1.800.776.8328) for a free quote.