Consumer Alert: Tips to Avoid Moving Scams

Memorial Day weekend marks the start of the busy consumer moving season, a time when families pack up belongings and memories to head to their next forever homes.

Some movers take the do-it-yourself approach, while others hire professionals to deliver their belongings safely and securely to their new homes.

While there are many reputable moving companies who are trustworthy and offer legitimate services, consumers need to be aware of moving scams that could affect their wallets and worldly goods.

Scammers, offering seemingly inexpensive moving service, use online message boards, shell websites, social media, and other online listings to attract unsuspecting consumers.

Often, the prices and quotes are unclear, and when the movers show up, the scammers may be using unbranded trucks or trailers.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates moving companies and has some tips on how to spot scams.

• The mover or broker doesn’t perform an on-site inspection of your household items and gives an estimate over the telephone or online — sight unseen.
• The mover or broker does not provide a written estimate or says they will determine the cost after loading.
• The moving company demands cash or a large deposit before the move.
• The mover asks you to sign blank documents.
• The mover or broker doesn’t provide you with a copy of the Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Movebooklet and a copy of FMCSA’s Ready to Move brochure, which movers are required by federal regulations to supply to their customers.
• The company’s website has no local address and no information about their registration or insurance.
• The mover claims all goods are covered by their insurance.
• When you call the mover, the telephone is answered with “Movers” or “Moving Company,” rather than the company’s name.
• Offices and warehouse are in poor condition or nonexistent.
• On moving day, a rental truck arrives rather than a company-owned or marked fleet truck.
• The mover claims that you have more belongings than estimated.

What can you do if you are the victim of theft or think you've been taken advantage by a moving scammer?

If you are the victim of theft or a scammer using a Penske rental truck, call the police immediately and contact the nearest Penske Truck Rental location.

Provide the truck information, moving company, and any other details such as photos, truck plates, truck number, rental agreement number, etc.

For more information about how to avoid moving fraud and your consumer rights and responsibilities when moving, visit the FMCSA's Protect Your Move website.

By "Move Ahead" staff