How to Know if a Moving Company is a Scam

When you’re in the process of moving, there’s a lot to get done, and you might think it’s safe to just hire the first moving company you see. But if you don’t take the time to do your research and hire just any moving company, you could become the victim of a moving scam. Some moving scams involve movers charging way too much, adding unexpected charges to your bill that weren’t on your estimate, or worst of all, having you pay beforehand and then not showing up at all.

Unfortunately, these kinds of moving scams are far too common. Fortunately, they’re easy to avoid if you do your research and follow a few simple steps before hiring a local moving company.

Tips to Avoid Moving Scams

1. Have a Friend or Family Member Refer a Good Moving Company

Referrals from friends and family are one of the best ways to avoid moving scams. If you ask around, they’ll let you know which companies to stay away from and which ones you should seriously consider. Whether it be a lack of professionalism, an actual scam, or unsatisfactory work, you can avoid it all during your move if you only ask. A moving company that’s been around for a long enough time to be referred by people who have previously moved is likely still in business because it’s legitimately good.

2. Check the Moving Company’s Online Profile

When you Google this moving company, does a landline phone number appear? Is their address an actual business or a residential house? Do they only accept cash? These can be indicators of a shady moving company. Bad movers can operate under several different names but use the same phone number as a point of contact with customers. If you look up the phone number, make sure it only represents one business. Similarly, make sure the number is to a real landline and not a cellphone. Most importantly, a reputable moving company will accept almost every form of payment. If they refuse to take credit cards or certified cheques, something is wrong.

3. Look Out for High-Pressure Commitments

An easy tip-off that you may be dealing with a potential moving scam is if you feel a lot of pressure from them to commit right then and there. Listen for phrases like, “We’re very busy on that day, and you need to tell us right away, or you may not find a mover.” If they say these phrases, you should remove them from consideration. Yes, moving companies experience a busy season (summer) and see an increase in moves at the beginning and end of each month. However, they’ll usually hire additional manpower to accommodate customers.

4. Avoid Paying for Your Move Before it Happens

A reputable moving company won’t demand you pay the entire moving fee before they show up to move you. Deposits to hold your spot are industry standard, but it’s a warning sign if the moving company wants you to pay the entire moving cost up front rather than after delivery. When you pay the whole sum before the move, you not only have no control over when your items get delivered, you risk the moving company not showing up at all.

If you do all of these things when booking a moving company, you’ll be able to avoid getting scammed by illegitimate moving companies. Two Small Men with Big Hearts movers have been in business for more than 30 years, and we’re happy to answer any questions or concerns you have about all aspects of your move.