How to Spot a Fraud Moving Company

Planning a big move but not sure who to trust? The integrity of a moving company is essential when hiring them to handle your valuables and possessions. Here are some signs that the moving company you're considering hiring might not be the best choice.

12 Signs of a Fraud Moving Company

1. No On-Site Estimate

Reputable movers will assess your belongings in person or through a virtual consultation before providing a quote. If a company refuses to do an on-site estimate, be wary—it could mean hidden fees or inaccurate pricing.

2. Generic Phone Greeting

If you call and they simply answer with “moving company” instead of stating their full business name, it’s a red flag. Legitimate movers take pride in their reputation and branding.

3. No Physical Address or Local Contact Information

A trustworthy moving company will have a real office location and a local phone number. If the website only has a contact form or a toll-free number with no address, it may be a scam.

4. Large Deposit Required Upfront

Most legitimate movers don’t require a hefty deposit before the move. If a company asks for a large payment in advance, they could take your money and disappear.

5. No MC Number or USDOT Number

All interstate moving companies must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number. If a company cannot provide this information, it’s best to move on.

6. No Certificate of Insurance

A legitimate mover should be able to provide proof of insurance, including liability and workers’ compensation. If they can’t, your belongings (and their workers) may not be protected.

7. Misleading Insurance Claims

Be cautious if a company tells you that all goods are “fully covered” by insurance. While movers do provide basic liability coverage, full-value protection often requires additional insurance.

8. No Physical Office or Warehouse

A professional moving company should have an actual location, not just a website or a PO box. If they don’t have an office or warehouse, they may not be a real business.

9. Poorly Maintained Office or Warehouse

If you visit their location and it looks disorganized, dirty, or poorly maintained, it’s a sign they may not handle your belongings with care either.

10. False Claims About Storage Facilities

Some movers claim to have their own secure storage, but in reality, they rent units at self-storage facilities. If you need storage, verify where your items will actually be kept.

11. Vague or Unclear Pricing

If a company tells you they will determine the price once they arrive, be cautious. Professional movers provide clear, written estimates based on weight, distance, and services required.

12. Rental Trucks Instead of Company-Owned Vehicles

A legitimate moving company will have branded trucks and equipment. If they show up with an unmarked rental truck, they may not be an established business.

Trust Your Mover

Trust is everything when it comes to moving your personal belongings. A reputable company will be licensed, insured, and transparent about pricing. At CT Moving and Storage, we’ve built our reputation on honesty, reliability, and over 50 years of experience. Contact us today for a stress-free, secure move.