Last updated 2026-07-10 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Learning how to avoid moving scams protects your money and your belongings. Verifying licensing, getting written estimates, and refusing big deposits stop most scams cold.
Step: Verify the mover USDOT or state license number
Step: Get written in-home or video estimates, not phone quotes
Step: Be wary of quotes far below the others
Step: Refuse to pay a large deposit upfront
Step: Read recent reviews and check complaint records
Step: Confirm the company name, address, and equipment
Step: Get every term and the inventory in writing
Step: Trust your gut and walk away from red flags
Spotting and dodging rogue movers.
When: Vet movers while gathering estimates, before any payment.
Watch out: A demand for a large cash deposit or a refusal to provide a license is a scam signal; do not hand over money or your goods.