How to Verify a Moving Company’s Legitimacy (General Guidance)

In the moving industry, verifying a company’s legitimacy is paramount.

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While Midlandvanlines.com shows many positive signs, applying a general verification checklist is always a wise approach before entrusting anyone with your belongings.

This process helps safeguard against scams and ensures you’re dealing with a reputable, compliant mover.

Key Steps to Verify Legitimacy

• Check FMCSA Registration: For interstate moves (moves across state lines), the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is the governing body. All legitimate interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number and an MC (Motor Carrier) number.
  • Action: Go to the FMCSA SAFER system. You can search by USDOT number, MC number, or company name. A legitimate company will have an active registration, insurance information, and a safety rating. If a company doesn’t have these or claims to only do local moves (to avoid federal regulation, but then offers interstate), it’s a huge red flag.
  • Data Insight: According to FMCSA data, thousands of moving companies operate interstate. Verifying their SAFER profile provides crucial details on their operational status, safety record, and insurance filings.
• Verify Insurance and Bonding: A legitimate mover will carry proper insurance to cover your belongings in transit and general liability. They should be transparent about their insurance coverage and valuation options (e.g., Released Value vs. Full Value Protection).
  • Action: Ask for proof of insurance directly. This information should also be visible on their FMCSA SAFER profile. Be wary if a mover cannot provide clear insurance details or pushes for a low-value “released value” coverage without explaining options.
• Check for a Physical Address: A real company will have a physical business address.
  • Action: Verify the address on Google Maps. Is it a legitimate office building or a residential address? Be cautious if they only list a P.O. Box or if the address doesn’t match the company’s description.
• Read Independent Online Reviews: Don’t rely solely on testimonials on the company’s own website. Look for reviews on third-party platforms.
  • Action: Check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website for their rating and customer complaints. Also, look at reviews on Google My Business, Yelp, ConsumerAffairs, and social media platforms. Look for patterns in complaints (e.g., consistent issues with hidden fees, damaged goods, or late deliveries).
  • Statistical Context: Studies by organizations like Nielsen show that 92% of consumers trust earned media, like reviews and recommendations, over other forms of advertising.
• Get a Written Estimate: A reputable mover will provide a detailed written estimate after an in-home or virtual survey of your belongings. This estimate should clearly outline all costs, services included, and any potential additional charges.
  • Action: Insist on a “binding estimate” or “binding not-to-exceed estimate” to avoid price surprises. Non-binding estimates can legally go up by a significant percentage.
• Beware of Red Flags:
  • Requiring large upfront deposits: Legitimate movers rarely demand more than a small deposit (10-20%) upfront.
  • Cash-only payments: This is a major warning sign.
  • Extremely low bids: If a quote is significantly lower than others, it could indicate hidden fees or subpar service.
  • No physical office or generic contact info: If they only have a mobile number or a generic email address.
  • High-pressure sales tactics: If they try to rush you into signing a contract.
  • Brokers vs. Carriers: Understand the difference. A broker arranges the move but doesn’t own the trucks or employ the movers. A carrier performs the move. While some brokers are legitimate, ensure they are registered as such with the FMCSA.

By following these verification steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of encountering moving scams and increase your chances of a smooth, legitimate moving experience.

This proactive approach is essential for protecting your assets and peace of mind.