How to Spot & Avoid Moving Scams

As you prepare for a relocation, professional movers can be a valuable asset, assisting you with various tasks and taking extra burdens off your plate. Although moving companies should provide help, scam movers can make moving even more difficult by intentionally completing a poor job or adding unneeded stress.

But how can you ensure you choose a reputable moving company? What can you do to alleviate the risk of relying on movers with bad intentions? If you want to discover common red flags in moving companies and how to avoid a moving scam, discover our comprehensive guide below, empowering you to find the perfect movers for your upcoming move!

Red Flags in Moving Companies

When searching for a reliable moving company, being familiar with the warning signs of rogue movers can properly prepare you for their practices and allow you to avoid them more effectively. Learn more about how the signs of moving scams can be pinpointed below!

• Lack of Licensing and Insurance: Legitimate moving companies should have proper licenses and insurance. If a company can’t provide proof of these credentials, it’s a major red flag. Without proper licensing and insurance, you have no guarantee that your belongings will be protected during the move, leaving you susceptible to any malintent from your movers.
• Requiring Large Deposits: Be cautious of moving companies that demand large deposits or upfront payments before the move. Reputable companies typically request payment upon delivery, not before. If anything, movers will only require a small sum to be deposited in advance Asking for a substantial deposit could indicate a potential scam or financial instability, raising warning signs for you to avoid.
• Name Changes: If a moving company has a history of frequent name changes or inconsistent branding, it could be a sign of trouble. Name changes might be an attempt to evade negative reviews or legal issues. Stick with companies with a stable and recognizable identity and an established reputation.
• No In-Home Estimate: A reputable moving company will usually need to conduct an in-home assessment of your belongings before providing a quote. If a company insists on giving you a quote over the phone without seeing your items, it could result in inaccurate pricing or hidden fees.
• Incomplete or Blank Contract: Always review the moving contract carefully before signing. If the contract is incomplete, contains blank spaces, or lacks essential details, it’s a red flag. A reliable moving company will provide a comprehensive contract outlining all the move’s terms and conditions.
• High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Beware of moving companies that use high-pressure sales tactics to rush you into making a decision. Reputable companies will give you time to review your options and won’t pressure you into committing to their services hastily. Any pressure indicates something wrong below the surface.
• Unprofessional Behavior: Pay attention to how the moving company communicates with you. If they’re unresponsive, rude, or evasive when you ask questions, it’s a warning sign. Professional movers should be courteous, helpful, and transparent throughout moving, or else their services should be avoided.

How Do I Find Reliable Movers?

Although there are plenty of red flags to avoid as you search for movers, finding a reputable company doesn’t need to feel like an uphill battle. With these simple steps, you can book with a dependable moving company to facilitate your relocation! Discover our five steps to finding your perfect movers below.

1. Ask for Recommendations: Start by asking friends, family, neighbors, or colleagues for recommendations. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into the reliability and quality of moving companies they’ve used in the past by providing candid, firsthand feedback from a previous customer.
2. Thoroughly Research: Take the time to research moving companies online. Look for companies with positive reviews and ratings on trusted websites like Yelp, Google, or the Better Business Bureau. Pay attention to any complaints or negative feedback and consider how the company responds to them, and always make sure they are in good standing.
3. Verify Credentials: Verify that the moving companies you’re considering are licensed and insured. You can usually check this information on the company’s website or by contacting relevant regulatory agencies. Working with licensed and insured movers ensures that your belongings are protected throughout the moving process.
4. Obtain Several Quotes: Contact multiple moving companies to get quotes for your move. Be sure to provide detailed information about your moving needs to receive accurate estimates. Compare the quotes carefully, taking into account factors such as services offered, pricing, and any additional fees. Always beware of suspiciously low prices, as these can denote shady behavior from a moving company. 
5. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the moving companies questions about their experience, services, and policies. Inquire about their process for handling fragile or valuable items, equipment and vehicles, and procedures for resolving any issues that may arise during the move. A reputable moving company will be transparent and willing to address your concerns with professionalism.
6. Review Your Contract: Before hiring a moving company, carefully review the contract they provide. Make sure you understand all terms and conditions, including pricing, payment schedule, services provided, and any cancellation or liability clauses. If there are any discrepancies or unclear terms, ask for clarification before signing. Having everything clearly laid out in the contract is an important precaution to protect you in case of any issues in the future.

Find a Trustworthy Moving Company for Your Relocation

By understanding the warning signs and knowing the best way to approach finding a moving company, you will be able to choose reputable movers you can rely on.

If you want to skip the search and facilitate your move with movers you can trust, count on none other than Oneida Solutions Group! Since 2005, Oneida Solutions Group has been providing trusted, top-rated moving services to Michigan and beyond, delivering comprehensive moving solutions to residential and commercial customers.

Our proven services can transform your move, allowing you to easily facilitate the transition whether you’re headed near or far. Interested in working with us? Request a quote online or call us today, and discover how OSG can improve your move!