Anyone who has moved knows how stressful moving can be and a big source of that stress can come from worrying whether you’ve chosen the right moving company. The best moving company supports a smooth, stress-free move, saving you from a chaotic experience.
While many reputable moving companies provide excellent service, there are also some less scrupulous operators out there. You can safeguard yourself by recognizing these red flags when evaluating moving companies and then knowing what to do if you encounter them.
Red flag #1: Lack of proper licensing and insurance
Here’s a fact: licensed and insured movers comply with industry standards and regulations. For those of us in the U.S., interstate movers are required to register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number.
You have every right to ask for the company’s USDOT number and verify it on the FMCSA website. By doing so, you’ll ensure the company has adequate insurance to cover potential damages during the move.
Red flag #2: Unclear or non-binding estimates
If your potential moving company provides only vague estimates — or worse! — refuses to present you with a written estimate you should request a detailed, written estimate and ensure it includes all potential charges. Whenever possible, request a binding estimate, which guarantees the quoted price; non-binding estimates can lead to unexpected charges on moving day.
Keep in mind that a legitimate moving company will provide a clear, written estimate based on an in-person or video survey of your belongings.
Red flag #3: Extremely low bids
When a moving company offers a significantly lower estimate than other movers, remember, if a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Low bids may actually indicate a scam, hidden fees, or subpar service.
All you have to do in this instance is compare estimates from multiple companies and always be wary of estimates that are much lower than the competition, as they may be a bait-and-switch tactic.
Red flag #4: Poor online reviews and reputation
Any moving company with numerous negative reviews or unresolved complaints likely represents unsatisfactory service or unethical practices. Before signing up for a moving service, check reviews on multiple platforms, such as Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Carefully check for patterns in the feedback and consider how the company responds to complaints.
Red flag #5: Lack of a physical address or professional website
It’s important to evaluate a moving company the same way you would any other product or service provider. A legitimate moving company should have a physical location and an online presence. Lack of these can indicate a fly-by-night operation so be sure to visit the company’s website in order to check for an address and contact information. If possible, visit their office to verify their legitimacy for optimal peace of mind and confidence in your choice.
Red flag #6: Requests for large upfront deposits
When a moving company demands a large upfront deposit before the move, it could be a scam. In this case you risk losing your money if the company disappears or provides subpar service. So, avoid paying large deposits because reputable movers typically require payment upon delivery. Whenever possible, use a credit card for deposits and payments to have reliable recourse in case of fraud.
Red flag #7: Lack of professionalism and poor communication
Any moving company that is unprofessional in its communication or is difficult to reach can cause misunderstandings resulting in unmet expectations. Right from the first interaction, pay attention to how the company communicates during the initial contact. Is the team responsive, courteous, and transparent? From start to finish, a professional moving company will prioritize clear and consistent communication with its customers.
Champion your move with CLR Movers
Ultimately, partnering with the right moving company requires careful research and attention to detail. By being aware of these red flags and taking proactive steps, you can avoid potential pitfalls and ensure a smooth, stress-free moving experience.
“We were extremely satisfied with the service. From start to finish, you made our move very comfortable. You were 100% on time (a few minutes early which is even better), professional, non-smoking, constant communication, VERY reasonable prices, and just a joy to work with. We were very impressed how well everyone worked together. If you ever need a referral, please send them my way!!” — Lisa Lemieux
Remember, a reputable moving company will be transparent, professional, and dedicated to providing excellent service. Take your time, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts to make the best choice for your move.Better yet, streamline the entire vetting and decision making process by getting in touch with our team today. Contact us!
