Moving is already stressful as it is. The last thing you need is people trying to scam you as you deal with one of the most hectic days of your life. These vultures are everywhere, but thankfully, there are signs that should make your alarm bells sound off.

Signs You’re Being Targeted by a Moving Scam

 

Men working for a moving services company unloading a sofa from a truck.jpeg

Cash-only payments

If the moving company only accepts cash because they cannot process credit card payments, it’s likely they’re avoiding the paper trail that comes with that ability, and that should make your Spider-sense tingle.

No contract

Having a signed contract is standard operating procedure for legitimate moving companies or any legal service provider for that matter. It protects both parties, so no contract means no protection at all.

No company logo

Real companies would want to advertise their services, and a logo represents them best. You should be concerned if the moving truck that shows up at your place is unmarked. Chances are, you won’t see your belongings ever again once they leave.

Huge down payment

A 20% down payment is what legitimate moving companies usually ask for, that is, if they ask for one. Many movers don’t even do that, to be honest. Another thing that they don’t do is ask for large upfront payments. If the moving company you hired asks you for, say, a 50% down payment, better cancel the whole thing. If you pay up, they’ll probably never show up on moving day.

No verifiable office or address

An office address, phone numbers, and a website with complete contact details can help you verify the legal existence of a company. If the mover you’re talking to provides you none of the above, contact another moving company. Never do business with anyone whose legitimacy you can’t confirm.

These are just some of the signs that scammers have their eyes set on you. To avoid the further stress of becoming a victim of a moving scam, you have to be more vigilant. Hopefully, the above tips would help in that regard.

Art Lopez

Art Lopez is the founder and owner of A&C Brothers Moving in Phoenix, Arizona. The company helps residents from all over Arizona take the stress out of moving.