How to Avoid Scammers and Brokers When Moving

Moving can be a stressful time, and it's important to be aware of the potential for scams and brokers especially during the busy season. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them:

Do your research. Before you hire a moving company, be sure to do your research and get quotes from several different companies. You can find reviews of moving companies online, or you can ask your friends and family for recommendations.

Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics. If a moving company is pressuring you to sign a contract right away, or if they're offering you a deal that seems too good to be true, it's probably a scam. Most movers only have around a 10% margin so the price should have limited variance.

Search the DOT number of the mover- Make sure they actually have running trucks in their fleet and are a real mover and not a broker by their licensing.

Get everything in writing. Before you hire a moving company, be sure to get everything in writing, including the estimated cost of the move, the date of the move, and the services that will be provided.

Pay with a credit card. If you pay for your move with a credit card, you'll have more protection if something goes wrong. If the moving company doesn't show up or fails to perform the services promised you can dispute the charge with your credit card company.



Here are some additional tips to help you avoid scammers and brokers:

Beware of companies that require you to pay a deposit upfront. Legitimate moving companies typically don't require a deposit greater than 10% of your total move and will often waive it if it is a major concern.

Beware of companies that offer to pick up your belongings without providing you with a quote first. Legitimate moving companies will always provide you with a quote before they pick up your belongings.

If you think you've been scammed by a moving company, you should report it to the Better Business Bureau and your state's attorney general's office. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from scammers and brokers when you're moving.