When it comes to moving, choosing the right company can make or break your experience. A simple search for terms like “cheap moving companies,” “best interstate movers,” or “affordable moving services” will give you thousands of results—but here’s the truth: not all moving companies are trustworthy.

In fact, with over 8,000 registered moving companies in the U.S., it can feel overwhelming to know which one is legitimate and which ones might leave you with damaged belongings, hidden fees, or even worse—no service at all.

So, how do you separate the reliable professionals from the scams? In this guide, we’ll break down practical steps you can take to do a background check on a moving company before you hand over your hard-earned money.

Also, Read: Best Interstate Moving Companies

1. Check Their Reputation

The first thing you should do when evaluating a moving company is to dig into its reputation. A company’s past performance is usually a strong indicator of how it will treat you as a customer. Don’t just rely on advertisements or flashy websites—look for real feedback from people who have actually used their services.

Start with:

Customer Reviews: Look at what past customers say on trusted review sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, or Trustpilot. Pay attention not just to ratings, but to how the company responds to complaints.
Better Business Bureau (BBB): The BBB is a goldmine for checking complaints, business ratings, and overall credibility.
Word of Mouth: Ask friends, family, or co-workers if they’ve worked with the company. A real-life recommendation is often more valuable than online ads.

Red flag: If a company has little to no online presence or mostly generic reviews, proceed with caution.

2. Be Cautious with Brokers

Many people don’t realize that some moving companies are actually brokers. A broker doesn’t perform the move themselves but instead connects you with another moving company. While some brokers can provide good deals, the problem is that the level of service can vary greatly depending on which company they assign to you.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

Do Your Homework: Always research the company they recommend. Don’t just rely on the broker’s word.
Ask for Transparency: A good broker should tell you exactly which company will handle your move.
Check Reviews of Both: Look up the broker and the moving company to be safe.

Red flag: If a broker refuses to disclose who will actually move your belongings, that’s a deal-breaker.

3. Verify Licensing and Registration

A legitimate moving company should always have the proper licensing and registration. This is one of the most important steps in protecting yourself from scams. Licensed movers must follow state and federal regulations, which gives you an added layer of protection if something goes wrong.

Here’s how to verify:

Department of Transportation (DOT): Use the FMCSA search tool to confirm their DOT number and see if they’re legally allowed to operate.
State Requirements: Some states also require intrastate movers to have a state-specific license. Double-check with your state’s consumer protection office.

Red flag: If they can’t provide a DOT number or their registration is expired, look elsewhere.

4. Get a Written Estimate

One of the most common problems customers face with movers is unexpected fees. To protect yourself, always request a written estimate before agreeing to anything. This ensures that you and the mover are on the same page about what services will be provided and at what cost.

Why this matters:

It prevents last-minute price changes.
It outlines what’s included, such as the number of boxes, size of the truck, or distance of the move.
It gives you proof in case of disputes.

Pro Tip: Get estimates from at least three different companies. This way, you can compare and spot deals that seem too good to be true (because they usually are).

Red flag: Movers who only give verbal quotes or refuse to put details in writing are often running scams.

5. Read the Fine Print

The contract is where many people get caught off guard. Even if you’ve verified licensing and read reviews, you still need to carefully read the paperwork before signing. This is where hidden fees or vague terms often appear.

What to look for:

The Contract: Look for hidden fees (stairs, long carry charges, oversized items).
Insurance Options: Make sure they offer proper coverage for your belongings.
Cancellation Policy: Life happens—know the terms in case you need to reschedule.

Red flag: If the contract feels rushed, incomplete, or one-sided, step back and reconsider.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Rush Your Decision

Choosing the right moving company is about more than just price. It’s about trust, professionalism, and peace of mind. A little research upfront can save you from stress, money loss, or damaged belongings down the road.

Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, always take time to check credentials, read reviews, and compare estimates. By following the steps above, you’ll be in a much better position to hire a mover that will handle your belongings with care.