Moving is generally a fresh start and a new chapter in life. But how to deal with bad movers can change that excitement into a bad experience. From broken or lost items to surprise charges and even holding your stuff hostage, there are many bad stories about the worst moving companies. If you’ve been victimized by bad moving companies or don’t wish to be, this article will help you identify, handle, and avoid problems with bad movers, and also tell you where to report them and how to protect your future moves.
Spotting the Red Flags Early
Before hiring a moving company, it’s necessary to look for red flags that indicate unreliability or even fraud. The following are some clear indications of a bad moving company:
- No business office or address: A serious mover should have a traceable physical address.
- No registration or license: Movers need to be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) for interstate moves.
- Unrealistically low estimates: Extremely low estimates typically result in surprise fees after your belongings are on the truck.
- Requests for large deposits: Most authentic movers will not ask for more than 10-15% as a deposit.
- Lack of branding: If the truck is not marked or the movers do not look official, be worried of not trusting them.
- Name changes: The worst moving companies change names to avoid negative reviews and legal consequences.
How to Distinguish Bad Moving Companies from Good Ones?
Here’s a clear comparison table that highlights the differences between good moving companies and bad moving companies based on real customer experiences and industry standards:
| Criteria | Good Moving Companies | Bad Moving Companies |
| Customer Reviews | Mostly positive (Google, BBB, Yelp) | Frequent negative reviews and complaints |
| Punctuality | Arrive on time for both pickup and delivery | Often show up late or miss schedules |
| Pricing Transparency | Provide clear quotes with detailed breakdowns | Add hidden fees or change pricing last minute |
| Licensing and Insurance | Fully licensed and insured (DOT number, liability coverage) | Work without proper licensing or lack valid insurance |
| Communication | Keep you informed throughout the process | Hard to reach or indifferent |
| Handling of Items | Handle belongings with care; use proper packing and padding | Damage or lose items due to careless handling |
| Written Agreements | Provide detailed written contracts for services and costs | Have vague verbal agreements or incomplete paperwork |
| Staff Professionalism | Trained, uniformed, respectful, and efficient | Untrained or rude staff; lack of identification |
| Delivery Time | Deliver within the agreed timeframe | Delay delivery for days or even weeks |
| Problem Resolution | Address issues quickly and offer compensation if needed | Avoid responsibility or ignore customer complaints |
What to Do If You Have a Problem with Bad Movers
If you want to know how to deal with bad movers, at first, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do:
1. Document Everything
Keep a paper trail: emails, contacts, text messages, and payment receipts. Take photos of your goods before and after the move. Such evidence is important if you need to file a claim or seek a legal alternative.
2. Try Direct Resolution of the Issue
Contact the moving company directly before taking other steps. Be calm but firm. If you’ve got a written contract, raise it in the discussion.
3. File a Complaint with Regulatory Authorities
If the issue isn’t resolved, report it to:
- FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration), especially for interstate moves. You can file a complaint directly on their official website.
- Better Business Bureau (BBB) to publicize your complaint and ensure others don’t make the same mistake.
- State Attorney General for legal recourse and consumer protection services.
- Consumer Affairs websites and Reddit forums are websites where users’ experiences shine a light on unethical work.
4. Write Honest Public Reviews
Your review can warn others. Be specific, name the company, describe what went wrong, and how they handled it.
5. Take Legal Action or Arbitration
If your items are being held hostage or you’ve been overcharged, you have legal options. Check your contract; even the worst moving companies are required to negotiate in case of a dispute.
How to Avoid the Worst Moving Companies in the First Place
Being proactive is your best defense. Here’s how to make sure you never fall victim to a bad moving company again.
Research is important
- Verify the USDOT Number on the FMCSA website. All legitimate interstate movers will have this.
- Investigate the company on BBB, Yelp, and Google. A persistent pattern of complaints is a red flag.
- Look up Reddit and moving forums for the company name and horror stories.
Ask the Right Questions
- Are you insured and licensed?
- Will you transfer my goods onto another truck or into storage?
- What is your damage claims process?
- Are your estimates binding?
Always Get a Written Estimate
Verbal quotes are worthless. Request an estimate after an in-home visit (or virtual tour), not just over the phone.
Be Cautious of Large Deposits
Avoid companies that ask for more than 20% upfront. Reputable movers accept payment on delivery.
Learn from Others’ Experiences
It is helpful to learn how other individuals have dealt with the worst moving companies.
“All My Sons is the worst moving company ever to do business with. This company’s behavior was not only unethical—it was blatantly illegal”. Although the team began charging me at 9:45 AM, they didn’t start loading until 10:05 AM. What should have been a four-hour move (estimated at no more than $600) dragged into a 12-hour ordeal, and I was hit with an outrageous bill of over $1,400.”
This is not the only case. The FMCSA receives thousands of these complaints yearly. These kinds of incidents are the reason why it’s so important to conduct full research and take preventative steps.
How to Choose a Reliable Mover?
If you’re planning a move and want to avoid the risks, consider these tips:
- Ask for references and follow up on them.
- Look for certifications from industry groups like the Canadian Association of Movers or the American Moving & Storage Association.
- Choose a company with clear policies, professional conduct, and transparent pricing.
If you’re in Vancouver, consider working with companies like Secure Moving that have strong local reputations, verified licenses, and years of experience. Many consumers have had great success by choosing local companies with a community presence.
Why Choose Secure Moving Company?
With over 15 years of experience in the moving industry, Secure Moving offers hassle-free and professional moving services by a trained and experienced team. Our clean and well-maintained trucks are packed with quality equipment and blankets to provide the safeguarding of your belongings, and all of our trucks are powered by a power lift gate to speed up your move with security. We take pride in offering competitive, clear pricing with no hidden fees, just honest service. And, our support staff is available 12 hours a day to assist with any questions. Fully insured with $5 million in liability and active WCB coverage, Secure Moving ensures your move is in safe, capable hands. Contact us today and experience the difference.
Conclusion
Dealing with a bad moving company can be frustrating. The important factors are awareness, documentation, and pursuing every available way to hold such companies accountable. Whether you’re recovering from a bad experience or looking to avoid the worst moving companies, remember this: your strongest defense is information. Stay informed and always use licensed and professional movers for your peace of mind.
Secure Moving Company – Your Trusted Partner for Every Move
At Secure Moving Company, we believe that relocating can be a good experience. From your first telephone call to the final bit of furniture in the place, you’ll have us working for you. We handle your belongings with the best methods, being on time, professional, and prepared to get the job done right. As the leading moving company in Vancouver, we are committed to making your move as smooth and efficient as possible. Do not hesitate to call us now to order our services.
FAQs
- How can I identify a bad moving company before hiring it?
You can check online reviews, verify licenses, and avoid companies with unclear pricing or poor communication.
- What should I do if my movers are late or don’t show up?
Contact the company immediately, document everything, and consider alternative movers if there’s no response and you did not pay in advance.
- What steps should I take if my belongings are damaged during the move?
Take photos, document the damage, and file a formal claim with the moving company as soon as possible.
- How can I file a complaint against a moving company?
You should submit your complaint to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), FMCSA, and online review platforms.
- What precautions can I take to avoid moving scams?
Before moving, you should get written estimates, avoid large upfront payments, verify credentials, and read the contract carefully.
