Hiring professional movers should give you peace of mind, not make you a target for fraud. Unfortunately, moving scams are more common than most people think. Unscrupulous movers often take advantage of the stress and urgency surrounding relocations, leaving people overcharged, stranded, or even robbed of their possessions. Whether you’re relocating across town or the country, it’s essential to know the red flags. This guide outlines 7 warning signs of a moving scam and shows you how to avoid them. If you’re searching for a reputable provider, choosing a trustworthy company like Montford Movers or a verified Port Royal SC Moving Service can help you steer clear of trouble.
Unrealistically Low Estimates
One of the most common tactics scammers use is baiting customers with too-good-to-be-true pricing. They’ll give you a quote that’s far lower than competitors, only to add hidden fees or hold your items hostage for more money once your belongings are loaded.
How to protect yourself:
- Get at least three quotes from licensed movers to compare.
- Be wary of quotes given over the phone or email without an in-home or video survey.
- If a mover’s estimate is significantly lower than others, that’s a red flag—not a deal.
Reputable movers like Montford Movers conduct detailed assessments before providing fair, transparent pricing.
Lack of Proper Licensing & Insurance
A legitimate moving company operating across state lines must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a U.S. DOT number. Local movers should also have relevant state-level licenses and insurance coverage.
How to protect yourself:
- Ask for the mover’s USDOT number and verify it on the FMCSA website.
- For local services like Port Royal SC Moving Service, confirm licensing with the South Carolina Public Service Commission or other applicable state bodies.
- Insist on proof of insurance, including liability and cargo coverage.
Avoid movers that dodge these questions or seem confused by licensing terms.
No Physical Address or Company Website
Scammers often operate under vague or fake business names. They may not have a verified business address or may provide a generic website with little to no real information. Some even use changing company names to avoid bad reviews and lawsuits.
How to protect yourself:
- Check if the mover has a real business location, not just a PO box.
- Look for a professional, secure website with contact info, services, and reviews.
- Verify the business through Google Business Profiles, the Better Business Bureau, and other review platforms.
Reputable companies like Montford Movers have consistent branding, real contact information, and positive feedback from satisfied clients.
Large Deposits Upfront
Most legitimate moving companies will not demand a large deposit—or any deposit at all—before the move. Scam movers may ask for cash deposits or wire transfers upfront and then disappear or fail to show up on moving day.
How to protect yourself:
- Avoid companies that require more than 20% down, especially in cash.
- Always use a credit card for protection and dispute resolution.
- Get all payment terms in writing in your moving contract.
Remember: if you’re being rushed into payment, you’re likely being rushed into a scam.
No Written Contract or Vague Terms
Scammers often avoid contracts or provide vague, poorly written agreements that give them room to add hidden fees, cancel at the last minute, or deny responsibility for damage.
How to protect yourself:
- Insist on a detailed contract that outlines all services, dates, payment terms, and liability.
- Read the fine print, especially around delivery windows and claims processes.
- Keep all correspondence and documents, including emails and text messages.
A trusted Port Royal SC Moving Service will walk you through the contract and ensure you understand every part of it.
No On-Site or Virtual Inspection
Legitimate movers need to know what they’re moving to provide an accurate quote. If a company refuses to perform a visual inspection—either in person or via video call—and still promises a fixed price, that’s a warning sign.
How to protect yourself:
- Ask for a pre-move inventory and room-by-room assessment.
- Be cautious of companies that won’t take the time to see your items before quoting a price.
- Ensure the quote includes specifics: box count, furniture dimensions, and special handling instructions.
Montford Movers, for instance, offers thorough estimates based on detailed consultations—not guesses.
Poor or No Online Reviews
A lack of an online presence is a red flag, especially in an industry as review-driven as moving. Scam companies often create new business names to hide a history of complaints.
How to protect yourself:
- Look up the company on Google, Yelp, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau.
- Watch for consistent complaints about broken items, price increases, or hostage situations.
- Be cautious if the reviews seem overwhelmingly perfect or fake.
Local businesses like Montford Movers and other reliable Port Royal SC Moving Services have a track record of genuine customer satisfaction, and it shows in their reviews.
Conclusion:
A moving scam can turn one of life’s most exciting moments into a nightmare. But with the right knowledge, you can protect yourself and ensure a smooth, stress-free move.
Here’s a quick recap of how to avoid becoming a victim:
- Always research your mover’s license, reputation, and payment policies.
- Avoid vague contracts, shady deposits, and lowball estimates.
- Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
Working with reputable professionals like Montford Movers or a trusted Port Royal SC Moving Service guarantees peace of mind and ensures your move is handled with care, honesty, and professionalism. Don’t gamble with your possessions or your time—do your homework, watch for red flags, and choose a mover you can trust.
