· Michael Blair
Moving has a persistent fraud problem, and the pattern is recognisable. A few checks before booking remove almost all of the risk.
Verify registration
Interstate movers must be registered with the federal regulator and carry a USDOT number, which can be looked up along with their complaint history and insurance status.
For moves within Tennessee, check state registration. A company unwilling to provide either is answering the question.
Insist on a survey
Any mover quoting a full household without seeing it — in person or by video — is guessing, and a guess is what later becomes a price increase on loading day.
A survey also gives you a written inventory, which is what any subsequent dispute rests on.
- Look up the USDOT number and complaint history
- Insist on an in-person or video survey
- Get the estimate type in writing — binding, not-to-exceed
- Be wary of large cash deposits
- Confirm the name on the truck matches the contract
The warning signs
A quote well below the others without an explanation. A demand for a large deposit, particularly in cash. No physical address. A generic company name answering the phone.
And on the day, a truck with different branding from the company you booked, which usually means the job has been brokered.
Brokers versus carriers
A broker sells the job and subcontracts it to a carrier you did not choose. It is legal and it removes your ability to vet who actually turns up.
Ask directly whether they are a carrier or a broker, and if a broker, whether you will be told the carrier before the day.