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Everyone thinks they would never fall victim to a scam…until it happens. This was the unfortunate reality for 75-year-old Joan B., who has moved 27 times in her life. Planning her final move from Arizona to Western Massachusetts to be closer to her daughter, what should have been a happy reunion turned into a nightmare. Joan called us at BBB of Central New England from an empty apartment, distressed, unsettled, and in despair.
Moving across the country at 75 years old is no easy feat. Joan began looking for moving companies in April 2024, ensuring her move would go off without a hitch. She received quotes from two companies, but unsolicited calls and emails from additional movers soon flooded in. One such call was from "Budget Long Distance Movers." Without an in-home inspection, they provided a lowball quote over the phone. Pressed for time, Joan hired them, paying a $1,115.50 deposit.
Two days before the move, "Budget Long Distance Movers" called again, now identifying as "Relocation Express," and demanded an additional $2,000, threatening to cancel her move otherwise. Reluctantly, Joan paid. On a moving day, a truck arrived with two workers from yet another company, "I Relocate You Inc." They demanded an additional $1,708.62. After loading her belongings, the movers drove off. Joan hasn’t seen her possessions since.
Joan's story is, unfortunately, not unique. In 2023, there were 1.5 million inquiries on BBB.org about moving companies, and 5,918 complaints were filed. Victims of moving scams reported a median loss of $350.
How can you avoid becoming a victim of a moving scam like this?
- Watch for warning signs: Verify the company's registration, insurance, and address. Be cautious if they offer phone estimates or use rented trucks.
- Beware of unusual requests and extra costs: Avoid movers who ask for large upfront payments or demand additional fees that are not agreed upon.
- Get everything in writing: Check BBB.org for reputable movers and verify their licenses.
- Keep an inventory: Track your possessions with an inventory sheet.
- Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to clarify anything you don't understand.
- Pay with a credit card: Credit cards offer better protection against fraudulent charges.
- Hold on to valuables: Never pack valuables in the moving truck.
If you fall victim to a moving scam:
- File a police report.
- Contact MoveRescue at moverescue.com or (800) 832-1773.
- File a complaint on BBB.org or report the scam on Scam Tracker.
- Report to the U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- File a claim with the insurer listed in your contract.
- Visit BBB.org/moving for more tips.
Stay vigilant and protect yourself from moving scams.
For more information
For more moving tips, like how to choose the best option for your move, see BBB's moving HQ.
See a list of BBB Accredited moving companies near you.
To report a moving scam, visit BBB Scam Tracker. To learn how to protect yourself from scams, read our 10 steps to avoid scams.