Hiring the right moving company can make all the difference between a smooth, stress-free relocation and a costly nightmare. While many movers are trustworthy professionals, unfortunately, there are also disreputable companies that take advantage of unsuspecting customers. Recognizing red flags early can protect your belongings, your budget, and your peace of mind.

Here are the most common warning signs to watch for when selecting a moving company.

Lack of Proper Licensing and Insurance

One of the biggest red flags is when a moving company doesn’t have the required licenses or proof of insurance.

  • Local movers should meet state or municipal requirements.
  • Long distance movers must have federal licensing and be registered with transportation authorities.
  • Insurance coverage is non-negotiable; without it, you could be stuck with the bill if items are lost or damaged.

Always verify credentials before signing any contract.

No On-Site or Virtual Estimates

Reputable movers typically offer an in-person or virtual walkthrough before providing a quote. Companies that only give rough estimates over the phone without seeing your belongings may be setting you up for hidden costs later.

Warning signs include:

  • Quotes based solely on square footage.
  • Refusal to perform a home survey.
  • Vague pricing without clear breakdowns.

Extremely Low Estimates

If a company’s quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. Some dishonest movers lure customers in with low prices, then demand much higher payments once belongings are loaded onto the truck.

Be wary of:

  • Cash-only payments.
  • Unusually low rates compared to competitors.
  • Large deposits upfront.

A fair company will provide a transparent estimate and explain what is included.

Poor or Nonexistent Reviews

Before hiring a mover, research their reputation online. Companies without reviews, or those with a pattern of complaints, should raise concerns.

Look out for:

  • Sudden influxes of overly positive, generic reviews.
  • Multiple complaints about lost or damaged items.
  • Reports of unprofessional behavior or hidden fees.

Real reviews provide valuable insight into how a company operates.

Lack of Professionalism

Professional movers should present themselves with clear branding, organized communication, and professional conduct. Red flags include:

    • No physical office address or a vague location.
    • Unmarked trucks or rental vans instead of branded vehicles.
    • Unclear contracts with missing details.
    • Staff unwilling to answer questions or provide documentation.

If something feels unprofessional, trust your instincts.

Withholding Belongings

One of the worst scams involves movers who refuse to deliver belongings until additional fees are paid. This is illegal, but unfortunately, it happens.

To avoid this, always:

  • Use companies with written contracts and clear payment terms.
  • Avoid movers that demand full payment before delivery.
  • Choose well-established companies with proven reliability.

Why Choosing the Right Company Matters

Your belongings represent years of memories and financial investment. That’s why it’s important to select movers who prioritize transparency, professionalism, and care. Trusted providers such as UpMove moving company set the standard by offering clear contracts, reliable service, and a customer-first approach. Working with reputable movers ensures peace of mind throughout the entire relocation process.

Conclusion

When hiring a moving company, red flags such as lack of licenses, vague estimates, extremely low pricing, poor reviews, and unprofessional behavior should never be ignored. By doing your research, asking the right questions, and choosing a well-established provider, you can avoid scams and ensure your move is handled safely and efficiently.