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Don’t Get Burned: How to Avoid Scams When Hiring a Moving Company

  • Writer: Dos Manos Moving
    Dos Manos Moving
  • Jul 31
  • 4 min read

Is Your Move at Risk? Why Hiring the Wrong Moving Company Could Cost You Thousands


How to Avoid Scams When Hiring a Moving Company

You’ve packed up your life, signed the lease or closed on the new place, and now it’s time to move. You do a quick Google search, find a moving company that looks decent — and boom — disaster.

Suddenly, your “cheap” movers are holding your stuff hostage for double the quoted price. Or worse, they never show up at all.

Sound dramatic? Unfortunately, it’s not. Moving scams are far more common than most people think. But here’s the good news: with a little knowledge and a few red flags to watch for, you can avoid shady movers and hire a company that actually shows up, does the job right, and respects your time and belongings.

Let’s break it down.


What Does a Real Moving Company Do (That Scammers Don’t)?

A legitimate moving company is more than just a truck and a couple of guys with strong backs. When you hire a reputable mover, you’re paying for:

Scam movers, on the other hand, often bait you with a low price — then switch it up when it's time to load. Some ghost you completely. Others demand cash only. Real moving companies have systems, accountability, and positive reputations. Scammers have burner phones.


Real Story: When a Move Turned Into a Nightmare

Jennifer from Downers Grove thought she’d scored a deal. She hired a “moving company” she found online offering a flat rate that seemed too good to be true. Spoiler: it was.

On moving day, two men in an unmarked van showed up late, didn’t bring any tools or moving pads, and insisted she pay before they loaded anything. She refused. They left — and she was left scrambling last minute, paying double to book a legit company on emergency notice.


The 7 Red Flags of a Moving Company Scam

Here’s a list of the biggest warning signs to look out for when hiring movers:

  1. No in-person or video estimate: If they won’t see your items before quoting, they’re guessing — or planning to jack up the price later.

  2. Cash-only payments or huge deposits: Most legit movers only take deposits under 20%. Anything more is suspect.

  3. No website or generic contact info: A Gmail address, no real business name, and a sketchy online presence are major red flags.

  4. Unmarked trucks or rented vans: Real companies brand their trucks. Scammers rent theirs.

  5. Bad or no online reviews: No Google, Yelp, or Thumbtack presence? Or a string of 1-star horror stories? Move on.

  6. No DOT number or insurance: Any real interstate mover has a U.S. DOT number. Ask for it.

  7. Pressure tactics or vague answers: If they dodge questions or try to rush your decision — that’s a scammer move.


FAQ: How Do I Know if a Moving Company is Legit?

Q: Should I trust a company that only gives me a phone quote?A: No. Reputable movers will either come out in person or request a video walkthrough to provide an accurate quote.

Q: What’s a fair deposit to pay?A: Typically 10–20%. If a mover asks for 50% or more up front, walk away.

Q: How can I verify a moving company?A: Look them up on the FMCSA website to verify their DOT registration. Check Google reviews and call their phone number to see how professional their communication is.


What to Do If You’ve Already Been Scammed by a Moving Company

First: report them. Contact the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and file a complaint. You can also leave reviews to warn others. If they damaged or stole items, file a police report and check your renter’s insurance.

Second: document everything. Take screenshots of text messages, photos of license plates, names, and contracts. You might need this if you pursue legal action.


Where to Find a Moving Company You Can Actually Trust

When you're ready to move — whether it’s a short hop from Oak Brook to Naperville or a long haul to Texas — you need movers who show up, do the job right, and treat your stuff like it’s their own.

That’s exactly what we do at Dos Manos Moving. We're a top-rated local moving company serving Chicago’s western suburbs. We show up with real trucks, real equipment, and real care — no surprises, no scams.


Question for You:

Have you ever hired a moving company and felt uneasy about the process? What did you wish you knew before the move?

Drop us a message — we’d love to hear your experience and help however we can.


Don’t Let a Scam Ruin Your Move

Moving is already stressful enough. Don’t make it worse by hiring the wrong crew.

Choose a moving company that’s built on trust, transparency, and customer-first service. At Dos Manos Moving, we believe you deserve a smooth, stress-free experience — no games, no gimmicks.


📦 Need help with your next move? Reach out today and discover why so many families trust Dos Manos Moving.

Call or text us at 630-710-1423

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