The Moving Industry Has a Fraud Problem
Rogue movers — companies that provide low estimates and then hold belongings hostage for inflated payments — cost American consumers millions of dollars every year. Knowing the warning signs can save you from a nightmare.
Red Flag #1: No Physical Address
A legitimate moving company has a real office you can visit. If the company only operates through a website with no verifiable physical address, walk away.
Red Flag #2: Unusually Low Estimates
If a quote is significantly lower than other estimates, ask why. Rogue movers attract customers with low quotes and inflate charges after loading your belongings onto their truck — when you have no leverage.
Red Flag #3: No License Numbers
Legitimate interstate movers are required to have a USDOT number and MC number. Ask for them and verify at the FMCSA website. A Better Moving's DOT number is 528679 — you can look us up right now.
- Red Flag #4: Requiring a large cash deposit upfront
- Red Flag #5: Showing up in a rented truck with no company markings
- Red Flag #6: No written estimate — verbal quotes only
- Red Flag #7: Refusing to do an in-home or video assessment before quoting
How to Protect Yourself
Always get at least three written estimates. Verify license numbers. Read reviews on Yelp, Google, and the BBB. Ask how long the company has been in business. A+ BBB accreditation, like A Better Moving holds, means the company has a proven track record of resolving disputes fairly.