How to Choose a Reputable Moving Company (and Avoid Scams)
Moving scams cost American consumers tens of millions of dollars every year — usually from companies that quote low, load your stuff, then hold it hostage for a higher final bill. The good news: vetting a mover takes about 20 minutes if you know what to check.
Verify licensing (USDOT and MC numbers)
Every interstate mover in the US is required to register with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number, plus an MC (Motor Carrier) number for moving household goods. Local-only movers don't need MC numbers but most states require state-level licensing.
- Ask the company for its USDOT number (and MC number for interstate).
- Look it up at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov — confirm the legal name matches what's on quotes and the company is 'Authorized for HHG' (household goods).
- Check the FMCSA complaint history at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.
- For local moves, search your state's Public Utilities Commission or Department of Transportation for the license.
Confirm insurance and valuation
Ask for a Certificate of Insurance showing general liability, cargo, and workers' compensation. A real mover sends this within an hour. Separately, confirm what valuation options they offer — by federal law interstate movers must offer Released Value (free, 60¢/lb) and Full Value Protection. If a company can't explain the difference, don't hire them.
Read reviews the right way
- Read the most recent 20 reviews across Google, Yelp, and the BBB — not the all-time average.
- Look specifically for words like 'damage', 'delayed', 'final bill', 'estimate'. Patterns matter more than one bad review.
- Filter the 3-star reviews — they're the most honest. 1-star is often dramatic, 5-star is often coached.
- Check how the company responds to negative reviews. Professional, specific replies are a good sign.
Red flags — walk away immediately
- No on-site or video survey, but they give you a binding quote anyway.
- Requested deposit over 20% of the total, or cash/wire transfer only.
- No physical address, or the address on Google Street View is a residential house or empty lot.
- Company name on the truck doesn't match the company on the quote.
- No USDOT number, or the number returns no results on SAFER.
- Quote is dramatically lower than every other estimate.
- Pressure to sign immediately, 'this rate is only good today'.
Questions to ask before booking
- What's your USDOT number and how long have you been in business under this name?
- Are your crews employees or day labor?
- Is the truck yours or rented?
- What does the estimate include (travel, fuel, materials, stairs)?
- Is the quote binding, non-binding, or binding-not-to-exceed?
- What's your claims process if something is damaged?
- Can you send a Certificate of Insurance to my email today?
What to look for in the contract
The bill of lading is your contract. Before signing, confirm: legal company name, USDOT/MC numbers, pickup/delivery dates, type of estimate, agreed-upon valuation, full list of accessorial charges with dollar amounts, payment method, and the dispute process. Never sign a blank or partially-blank form. Keep a signed copy at every step.
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