How to protect yourself from moving scams
This year’s moving season could be the best yet for scammers — and the worst yet for families — because AI is improving con artists’ techniques.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) are warning consumers about the danger of moving scams and the vigilance required when selecting a mover.
“With AI, the fraudsters are very convincing and effective,” said Steve J. Bernas, BBB president and CEO. “The phony websites look genuine, the wording is professional, and the online reviews are excellent, but fake. Some counterfeit moving company names are a takeoff on actual legitimate mover names. This way, scammers easily trick people. It’s all designed to take your money and run.”
May is the busiest month for moving and the demand for movers continues throughout the warm weather of summer and early autumn.
“Families have a lot on their plates during a move, and they very well could encounter a substandard mover or a con artist posing as a legitimate company,” Bernas said. “The consequences can be severe, ranging from exorbitant prices and damaged furniture to, in the worst-case scenario, the complete disappearance of your belongings.”
When it comes to hiring a mover, trust is absolutely vital. While there are many reputable moving companies, it is crucial to read ratings and reviews before choosing. Because of the advances in AI, the customer must also verify that ratings and reviews are genuine.
“BBB.org is an excellent starting point for your search. Remember, a lower price does not always mean a better deal,” Bernas said. “Scammers and subpar movers often use lowball offers to lure unsuspecting customers.”
Moving scams are a big problem every year.
“The moving process can be stressful because most people only hire a mover a few times in their lives,” Bernas said. “Scammers capitalize on this, plus the fact that you are so busy meeting deadlines and running a household that you might let your guard down.”
According to the BBB Scam Tracker, consumers report receiving a quote and paying a deposit, only for the movers to never show up. Other complaints involve items arriving late or damaged, or being held “hostage” by a disreputable company demanding a higher price.
Another prevalent scam involves movers providing a quote based on the expected weight of the load. After loading the truck, they inform the consumer that the load exceeds the expected weight, requiring an additional fee. Often, this extra cost is significantly higher per pound, sometimes double the original estimate.
The BBB and ICC urge consumers to thoroughly research moving companies, read reviews, and verify credentials before making a decision. Taking these precautions to reduce the risk of scams will result in a smoother moving experience.
When moving within the state, always check with a great partner of the BBB, the Illinois Commerce Commission.
“Before packing up your household, check the ICC website to see a company’s complaint history, and confirm the mover holds a valid state license. A quick check can help unsuspecting customers from dealing with unexpected fees or scams come moving day,” said ICC Chief of Police Ruben Ramirez, Jr.
When moving between states, check licensing with the U.S. Department of Transportation. All interstate moving companies require an identification number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), which can be verified at fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move.
BBB recommends consumers follow these guidelines:
• Scammers can pose as legit moving companies. Make certain the moving company has a physical address, not just a P.O. Box number. Be wary if a company says they only do estimates over the phone, not in person at your home. Not even via Zoom.
• Do not hire a “ghost” moving company. These are not real movers. Although the website looks professional, the reviews are very recent and fake. They do not have a physical address. They often answer the phone with a generic “Movers” or “Moving” without a company name. Once they take your cash deposit, they disappear.
• Watch for warning signs. When reviewing a company’s website, if there is no address or information about a mover’s registration or insurance, it may indicate that the company does not possess the appropriate policies to protect a consumer’s belongings. Additionally, it may not be a legitimate business if the mover uses a rented truck or offers an estimate over the phone before conducting an on-site inspection.
• Get everything in writing. Though most professional movers do give quotes over the phone, it’s still a good idea to get written documentation of all the services you are receiving. If an estimate seems too good to be true, it likely is. Get three written estimates from different movers based on in-person visits to your home. Be sure the estimates are based on weight, not cubic feet, and opt for full-value replacement liability insurance. If the services change at any point, ensure that both parties document and understand these changes. Do not sign any contract with blank spaces where prices should be.
• Put a tracking device, such as an AirTag, inside a few boxes of your belongings, in case your items do not arrive at your new residence.
• Keep an inventory of your belongings. An inventory sheet is one of the best ways to keep track of your possessions. Label the boxes your belongings are packed in and what is in each box. Movers are not liable for lost or damaged contents in customer-packed boxes unless there is provable negligence on the mover's part. Taking photos of the contents before packing is a great way to prove if damage was incurred during the moving process.
• Ask questions. If the moving company cannot or will not answer your questions, look for another company.
If you encounter a scam, report it to the BBB Scamtracker to help alert others and protect your community.