How to Spot a Moving Scam in 2025

Moving to a new home should be an exciting time, but unfortunately, moving scams are more common than you might think. Dishonest movers trick people with hidden fees, damage, or steal belongings, or disappear after taking a deposit.

In 2025, scammers are getting smarter, using aggressive marketing, fake reviews, and unauthorized subcontracting to take advantage of customers.

With peak moving season just beginning and demand for movers at its highest, the risk of getting scammed is even greater. But don’t worry—there are steps you can take to protect yourself. This blog will help you spot red flags, avoid common scams, and ensure a safe and stress-free move.

Research Moving Companies

Before hiring a moving company, it's important to do thorough research to ensure you're choosing a reputable and legitimate service. Many moving scams exist, and taking the right precautions can save you from unnecessary stress and financial loss. Here’s what you should do:

Check Online Reviews

Look at trusted review sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Be cautious of companies with mostly negative reviews or very few ratings.

Verify Licensing and Accreditation

A real moving company should have a license and insurance. For long-distance moves, check if they are registered with the FMCSA and have a U.S. DOT number. It also helps if they are part of professional groups like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA).

Avoid Internet Brokers

Be wary of companies offering unusually low prices. Many online “brokers” don’t own trucks or have professional movers. They may take your money and disappear, leaving you with lost or damaged belongings.

Ask for a Physical Address

A reputable moving company will have a legitimate business location. If a mover doesn’t have an address or only operates online, it’s a red flag.

Get Recommendations

Ask friends, family, or coworkers who have recently moved about their experiences. Personal recommendations can help you find trustworthy movers. Be cheerful, protect yourself from scams, and ensure a smooth moving experience.

Common Moving Scams to Watch Out For

Scammers use many tricks to steal your money or belongings. Here are some of the most common moving scams:

Prices That Sound Too Good

When hiring a moving company, beware of prices that seem too good to be true. Scammers often lure customers in with low estimates, only to demand more money later. To avoid falling for these tactics, follow these key steps:

Get Multiple Quotes

Always compare prices from different moving companies. If one quote is significantly lower than the others, it could be a red flag.

Avoid Estimates Given Over the Phone or Online

Reputable movers will conduct an in-person or video survey to provide an accurate estimate. Be cautious of companies that give a price without seeing your belongings.

Watch Out for Bait-and-Switch Scams

Some movers offer a low estimate upfront but increase the price once they have your belongings, citing unexpected costs like extra labor, stair fees, or bulky item handling.

Demand a Binding Written Estimate

Ensure you receive a detailed contract outlining all possible charges. A legitimate company will be transparent about costs.

Demanding a Large Deposit Upfront

Be cautious of moving companies that demand large upfront payments before the move. Scammers often use this tactic to take your money and disappear. To avoid falling for an upfront deposit scam, follow these key guidelines:

Know the Standard Deposit Amount

Reputable movers may request a small deposit (usually less than 20% of the total cost) to secure your moving date, but they will never demand full payment in advance.

Avoid Paying in Cash

Scammers often insist on cash payments to avoid leaving a payment trail. Use a credit card or check for added security.

Watch for Red Flags

If a company asks for a large deposit, refuses to provide a clear contract, or doesn’t have proper licensing, it’s best to look elsewhere.

No Physical Address or Office

Before choosing a moving company, make sure they are real. Scammers often have no real address or use unclear contracts to fool people. Here’s how to stay safe:

Verify Their Business Address

A real moving company will have a physical office you can visit. Be cautious if they only use a P.O. box or have no listed address.

Check for a Detailed Contract

Always read the contract carefully. Make sure it includes the total cost, services provided, and insurance details. Scammers often operate online without a real location, so be careful.

Lack of Insurance or Licensing

When looking for a moving company, consider whether the company is insured and licensed. A legitimate moving company will be registered with the appropriate authorities and provide proof of insurance. Here’s what to check:

• Verify Their License
• Check Their Insurance Coverage
• Confirm Their Credentials.

If a company refuses to share their license or insurance details, don’t hire them.

The Company Changes Its Name Often

Some fraudulent moving companies change their names regularly to avoid bad reviews, legal trouble, or customer complaints. Here’s how to spot this scam:

• Verify the Company’s Full Name
• Check for Past Business Names
• Look for Consistency in Their Reputation.

‍Hidden Fees

A trustworthy moving company should provide a written estimate that clearly outlines all costs. Scammers often add unexpected fees after your belongings are loaded onto the truck and demand an additional payment to return your items. Here's how you can avoid hidden fees:

• Read the Contract Carefully
• Insist on a Complete Cost Breakdown
• Clarify the Final Price.

Avoid companies that won’t provide an exact estimate or attempt to add hidden costs after your move has started.

How to Protect Yourself from Moving Scams

To ensure a safe and smooth moving experience and protect yourself from moving scams in 2025, pay attention to a few things:

• Research the Moving Company
• Ask for a Written Estimate
• Check Their License and Insurance
• Avoid Large Upfront Payments
• Read the Contract Carefully
• Use a Credit Card for Payment
• Confirm the Moving Date and Time
• Get Everything in Writing

These are some of the most important things you need to check to avoid possible scams.

What to Do If You Get Scammed

No matter how careful you are, scams can still happen. If you find yourself in this situation, be sure to do the next:

• File a Complaint with the FMCSA
• Report to the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
• Contact Law Enforcement
• Leave Online Reviews
• Consult a Lawyer.

Conclusion

Moving scams are a growing concern, but by staying informed and cautious, you can protect yourself. Take the time to research movers, get everything in writing, and trust your instincts to avoid scams. Being diligent will help you ensure a smooth and stress-free move in 2025.