Choosing the right moving company can make the difference between a smooth transition and a nightmare experience. According to the Better Business Bureau, over 100,000 inquiries were made about movers in 2024, with scam victims losing a median of $754. Knowing how to identify trustworthy movers has never been more important.

This guide will help you spot red flags, verify credentials, and select a moving company you can trust.

Critical Warning Signs of Unreliable Movers

No Physical Address or Proper Licensing

If a company’s website lists only a P.O. box or fails to provide a USDOT number for interstate moves, that is an immediate red flag. Every legitimate interstate mover must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Consumers should always verify a mover’s registration status, insurance coverage, safety record, and complaint history before booking a move.

Generic Business Practices and Name Changes

Legitimate movers answer the phone using their registered business name. Companies that respond with vague phrases like “moving company” or frequently change names often do so to escape negative reviews or unresolved complaints.

Excessive Upfront Deposits

While small deposits may be normal during peak season, consumer protection experts warn that requesting more than 20 percent upfront is a serious red flag. Fraudulent movers often demand large cash deposits before the move begins.

Professional companies typically collect payment upon delivery and accept credit cards, which provide consumer protection and dispute options. Movers who insist on cash-only payments, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency should be avoided, as these payment methods offer no recourse if problems arise.

Estimates Without Inspection

Reputable movers conduct in-home inspections or video surveys before providing estimates. Phone-only quotes without seeing your belongings often indicate a bait-and-switch tactic.

Low initial estimates are commonly used to secure your business, then dramatically increased once your items are loaded. One of the most common excuses is that the shipment weighs more than expected, followed by a demand for immediate additional payment.

Unmarked or Rental Trucks

Professional movers arrive in clearly marked company vehicles displaying the business name, logo, and USDOT number. Rental trucks or unmarked vehicles suggest missing insurance, licensing, or federal registration.

Blank or Incomplete Contracts

Never sign blank contracts or documents with missing details. Legitimate movers provide written agreements outlining services, pricing, insurance coverage, dates, and dispute resolution procedures.

What Legitimate Movers Provide

Proper Licensing and Insurance

All interstate movers must maintain active USDOT and Motor Carrier numbers. Legitimate companies willingly provide documentation and encourage customers to verify their credentials.

Federal law requires movers to offer valuation coverage options. Released Value Protection is included at no additional cost but provides minimal coverage of 60 cents per pound per item. Full Value Protection offers more comprehensive coverage, requiring the mover to repair, replace, or reimburse damaged items.

Items valued above $100 per pound must be declared separately to receive full protection.

Written Estimates and Professional Conduct

Professional movers provide written estimates after reviewing your belongings and clearly itemize all services and fees. Binding estimates guarantee the total cost, while not-to-exceed estimates cap the maximum amount you can be charged.

Clear communication, trained crews, and adherence to safety standards are strong indicators of a reputable moving company.

Essential Questions to Ask Movers

Before signing any contract, ask the following questions and verify the answers:



  • What is your USDOT number?

  • Will you conduct an in-home or video estimate?

  • What insurance options do you offer?

  • How does your claims process work?

  • Can you provide recent customer references?

Established movers answer these questions clearly and without hesitation.

Where to Verify Moving Company Credentials

Consumers should check independent and official sources when researching a moving company. Look for complaint patterns, licensing status, and how companies respond to customer issues. Detailed reviews that reference specific move details tend to be more reliable than short, generic ratings.

The First Class Moving Systems Difference

When choosing First Class Moving Systems, customers work with a fully licensed and insured moving company that prioritizes transparency, protection, and professionalism.

Clear written estimates, verified credentials, comprehensive insurance options, and trained crews help ensure a smooth and reliable moving experience in an industry where trust matters most.