Consumer Guide 2026

How to Choose a Moving Company:
10 Red Flags to Avoid

Moving fraud costs Americans millions every year. Here's exactly what to check before handing over a single box.

Updated April 2026  ·  7 min read  ·  MovingQuotation.com
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The stakes are real. Moving fraud — where companies quote low prices, then hold your belongings hostage until you pay more — cost American consumers an estimated $250 million last year. The FMCSA received over 900 complaints about hostage load scams in a single recent year. Knowing what to look for protects you.

Step 1: Verify the USDOT Number (Non-Negotiable)

Every legitimate interstate moving company must have an active USDOT number registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This is federal law — not optional.

To verify any mover: go to protectyourmove.gov, click "Search for Movers," and enter the company's name or USDOT number. You'll see their license status, insurance, complaint history, and whether they're in good standing.

Red Flag #1: The company can't provide a USDOT number, or their number is inactive on the FMCSA database. Walk away immediately.

The 10 Red Flags That Predict a Bad Move

Red Flag #2: The quote is dramatically lower than everyone else

If one company quotes $2,000 and three others quote $3,500–$4,000 for the same move, something is wrong. Low-ball quotes are the #1 tactic used by fraudulent movers. They quote low to win the job, then add fees or hold your items until you pay more.

A fair quote should be in a reasonable range compared to others. If it's more than 25% below the average, ask why — and get the explanation in writing.

Red Flag #3: They ask for a large upfront deposit

Legitimate movers typically collect payment on delivery, not before. Be extremely cautious of any company asking for more than 25% upfront — and never pay 100% before your items are delivered.

Red Flag #4: No in-home or video survey for large moves

For any long-distance move or large local move, a reputable company will conduct an in-home (or video) survey to accurately estimate the weight and complexity of your move. A company that gives a firm quote over the phone without seeing your belongings is guessing — and that guess tends to grow on moving day.

Red Flag #5: They have no physical address

Search the company's address on Google Maps. A legitimate moving company will have a real warehouse or office. If the address is a residential home, a PO box, or doesn't exist, that's a serious warning sign.

Red Flag #6: The company answers the phone with a generic greeting

Fraudulent moving "brokers" often answer with "moving company" instead of their actual company name. Always confirm the exact legal business name, and search it on Google, the Better Business Bureau, and FMCSA before booking.

Red Flag #7: No written contract or vague contract language

Everything must be in writing: the binding estimate, all fees, pickup and delivery windows, liability coverage, and the payment terms. If a company resists putting terms in writing, or the contract is full of vague language like "additional charges may apply," do not sign it.

Red Flag #8: They use rented trucks with no company markings

While not always a problem, legitimate movers typically operate branded trucks. A crew showing up in a plain white rental truck with no identification should prompt you to verify their credentials immediately before they touch a single item.

Red Flag #9: Overwhelmingly perfect reviews with no negative feedback

A 5.0 rating with 200 five-star reviews and zero complaints is statistically suspicious. Look for companies with a high rating but a realistic mix of reviews — and pay attention to how they respond to complaints. Check Google, Yelp, and the BBB.

Red Flag #10: They won't provide references

Any reputable mover should be able to provide references from recent customers. If they refuse or stall, trust your instincts.

The 5-Point Verification Checklist

Before signing with any mover, confirm all five of these:

  1. Active USDOT number — verified on protectyourmove.gov
  2. Proper insurance — minimum $750,000 in liability for interstate movers (check on FMCSA)
  3. Physical business address — confirmed on Google Maps
  4. Written binding estimate — signed before pickup day
  5. Clear payment terms — deposit under 25%, balance on delivery

What to Do If You're a Victim of Moving Fraud

If a mover has taken your belongings hostage or is demanding more than the agreed price, you have options:

Under federal law, for interstate moves, you have the right to be present when your shipment is weighed. You have the right to receive a written estimate. And you cannot be required to pay more than 110% of a non-binding estimate at the time of delivery.

Why Comparing Multiple Quotes Protects You

Getting at least 3 quotes from different movers is the single most effective protection against fraud and overpaying. When you have multiple quotes from vetted, licensed companies, you can immediately identify any outlier — too high or suspiciously too low.

Get Quotes from Verified Movers Only

Every company in our network is FMCSA-licensed and vetted. Compare up to 5 quotes — free, no obligation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Go to protectyourmove.gov and search the company by name or USDOT number. You'll see their license status, insurance coverage, and complaint history. All legitimate interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA.
A hostage load is when a moving company loads your belongings, then demands more money than agreed before they'll deliver. This is illegal. File a complaint with the FMCSA and contact local law enforcement if this happens to you.
Tipping is customary but not required. A common guideline is $20–$50 per mover for a half-day job, and $50–$100 per mover for a full-day or particularly difficult move. Always tip in cash.
A moving broker connects you with carriers but doesn't perform the move themselves. Brokers must be registered with the FMCSA but they don't have trucks. The actual carrier they book may be different from who you researched. Always ask if a company is a broker or a carrier.