Moving Scams: What to Look for and How to Avoid Them

Common Moving Scams 

Most moving scams follow a predictable pattern: they play on urgency, offer a price that seems too good to be true, and count on people being too overwhelmed to read the fine print. Scammers can operate under the guise of real businesses or pose as helpful brokers, but in the end, they’re all after the same thing — your money and your belongings.

Even though recent data shows the total number of scam reports is starting to dip, the cost of each individual scam is going up. The average loss is now over $400 per case. The good news is that most scams follow repeatable tactics. Once you know how they work, they’re much easier to avoid.

Let’s break down the most common types of moving scams and what they look like in real life so you have a better chance of spotting and avoiding them.

Bait-and-Switch Pricing

This scam starts with a lowball quote that feels like a deal too good to pass up. The mover might promise an all-inclusive price over the phone or online, without asking many questions or doing a walkthrough. But once your belongings are loaded, the story changes.

Suddenly, you’re told your items weighed more than expected, or there were “extra” services required. The price goes up, sometimes by hundreds or even thousands of dollars. And if you don’t pay? They may refuse to unload your stuff.

How it works:

You’re quoted one price, the move happens, and afterward, you’re told the total is much higher.Or you’re quoted based on estimated weight, then told the truck was “overweight” and billed for the difference at a much higher rate. (For a clearer look at how legit companies structure pricing, see our guide on How do Moving Companies Charge?)

How it feels: At first, you feel relieved to have found a deal. But that relief can quickly turn into frustration or panic when your belongings are essentially being held hostage until you pay up.

Watch for red flags like:

• Vague quotes with little detail
• Refusal to do a virtual or in-person estimate
• A quote that’s significantly lower than others you’ve received

Stealing or Holding Your Belongings Hostage

Sometimes, the scammer’s goal is to load up your items and then disappear. In other cases, they’ll complete the pickup but refuse to deliver unless you pay an unexpected fee. This is often referred to as a hostage load, and it’s one of the most distressing types of scams.

How it works: You’ve paid a deposit or even the full amount, and your move seems to be going smoothly — until delivery day, that is. The mover stops responding, won’t give you a delivery date, or demands more money than you agreed to. Your items are essentially being held for ransom.

How it feels: You may feel blindsided, especially if the crew seemed polite and professional at first. Victims often describe feeling helpless, betrayed, and unsure who to call.

Red flags include:

• Movers refusing to provide a bill of lading (a legally required document)
• Sudden new charges not listed in your original contract
• Vague or evasive answers when you ask about delivery timing

Fake Moving Companies

These scams happen fast. You find a company online with a clean-looking website, glowing reviews, and maybe even a friendly voice on the phone. But when moving day comes, they’re nowhere to be found, and neither is your deposit.

How it works: The scammer poses as a real moving company. They might spoof a legitimate business name or create a new one that sounds trustworthy. They take your payment, sometimes via a peer-to-peer app or wire transfer, then disappear.

How it feels: You’re left stranded, often on a tight deadline, and have to come up with a backup plan. Unfortunately, your money is already long gone.

What to watch for:

• No DOT number or official licensing
• Payment methods that don’t offer protection (cash, Venmo, Zelle)
• No physical address or fake online reviews

Unauthorized Brokers

Not all brokers are bad. In fact, many reputable companies use brokers to match you with movers in your area. But unauthorized brokers (or ones that double-broker jobs) can be a serious problem, especially when freight or moving containers are involved. (Not sure what a moving broker actually does? Here’s a full breakdown on What is a Moving Broker and Should You Use One?)

How it works: A broker takes your booking, then sells or passes your job to another company without your knowledge. That company may not be vetted, may charge you more, or may not show up at all.

What makes it a scam: There’s no transparency. You thought you hired one company, but someone else shows up. You’re often caught in the middle and may be told that the original quote no longer applies.

Red flags:

• You don’t know which company is actually handling your move
• Multiple contracts or companies mentioned after booking
• Last-minute changes in your mover’s name or contact info

Moving Scam Red Flags

Scammers usually leave clues, but you have to know what to look for. While not every red flag means something shady is going on, seeing more than one should give you pause. Being able to spot these signs early can help you avoid a costly mistake before moving day even arrives.

Here are some of the most common red flags that might signal a moving scam:

• No on-site or virtual inspection before quoting a price
• Lowball estimates or vague quotes that don’t include clear terms or item counts
• No physical address or official licensing, like a DOT number
• Large deposits demanded upfront, especially in cash or via peer-to-peer payment apps
• Poor, overly vague, or suspiciously glowing reviews online
• No written contract or one that’s full of unclear language
• Unmarked trucks or movers without uniforms, anything that feels unprofessional or inconsistent

When in doubt, trust your instincts and ask questions. A reputable company won’t mind!

How to Avoid Moving Scams and Fraud

One of the simplest ways to protect yourself is by booking through a platform that only works with vetted professionals. When you schedule a move through MovingPlace, you’re getting access to a network of experienced providers with a proven track record for reliability, professionalism, and customer service.

Even so, it’s still a good idea to do your homework. Here are a few smart steps to help you steer clear of scams:

• Check their website and phone number. A real moving company should have a working website and phone lines that connect you to an actual person. If you keep hitting voicemail or the number keeps changing, take that as a sign to move on.
• Make sure they’re properly licensed. Look for a valid business license and registration with the FMCSA, especially if you’re moving out of state. A DOT number is another must-have for long-distance moves.
• Read through reviews. Every company has an off day, but if you see the same complaint over and over, that’s worth noting. Check sites like Google, Yelp, and the BBB to get a clearer picture.
• Get a few quotes in writing. It’s tempting to go with the cheapest option, but big price gaps are a red flag. A super low estimate often means surprise charges later. (Wondering what a reasonable quote looks like? Check out our guide on How Much do Movers Cost per Hour?)
• Skip the big upfront payments. Most legit movers won’t ask for a large deposit ahead of time. Paying after delivery is standard, and much safer.
• Use a credit card if you can. Credit cards offer a layer of protection that cash, checks, and peer-to-peer apps just don’t. If something goes sideways, it’s easier to dispute the charge.
• Know what you’re signing. Take a few minutes to read through your estimate and contract. Knowing your rights ahead of time can save a lot of stress later.
• Stick with trusted platforms or personal referrals. If you’re not booking through MovingPlace, lean on people you trust. Ask friends, family, or coworkers who’ve had good experiences. This is one of the safest ways to find a reliable mover.

What to Do If You’re the Victim of a Moving Scam

Scams often feed on moments when people feel overwhelmed, rushed, or emotionally drained, which is why they’re so common during a move. If you’ve been scammed, or even suspect something’s wrong, you’re not alone. It can feel awful, confusing, and deeply personal. But taking action early can help you recover your losses, protect others, and stop the scammer from doing more damage. Here’s where to start:

• Contact the moving company directly. Start by explaining the issue clearly and calmly. Whether your belongings are missing, fees were changed without notice, or a promised service wasn’t delivered, ask for a resolution in writing. Keep a record of all conversations, emails, and payment receipts. Some companies will work to resolve complaints once they know you’re taking the situation seriously.
• Leave reviews to warn others. Your experience could help someone else avoid the same trap. Be specific: include the name of the company, what was promised, what happened, and any communication issues. Post your review on platforms like Google, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and any moving directories the company appears on.
• Report the scam to local law enforcement and the FTC. If you believe a crime has been committed (such as theft or fraud), file a police report with your local department. You should also report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov. These reports help track fraudulent activity and can support investigations.
• File a complaint with the FMCSA or BBB. If your move crossed state lines, file a complaint with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). For local or intrastate moves, contact your state consumer protection office or the Better Business Bureau. Include detailed information and documentation when possible.
• Explore legal options. If you’re unable to reach a resolution and the financial loss is significant, you may want to speak with a consumer rights attorney. Small claims court is another avenue, especially if the amount falls within your state’s limits. Many local legal aid offices offer free consultations.

You’re not powerless, and taking action not only helps your case but also protects future movers from falling into the same trap.

Final Thoughts

Getting scammed is the last thing anyone wants to deal with during a move. But if you know what to look out for, it gets a lot easier to avoid the worst of it.

Most moving companies are out there doing honest work, helping people get to their new homes without any issues. And when you book through MovingPlace, you’re choosing from a network of professionals who’ve already earned our trust.

If you’re feeling unsure, that’s completely normal. Moving can be a lot, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. We’re here to help make your move easier!

For more advice, check out our 20 Moving Tips for a Stress-Free Relocation guide.