Long-distance moves cost a lot of money. Scammers know people feel stressed and rushed, so they try to take advantage. A bad moving company can take your money, hold your things, or even disappear. The best way to stay safe is to know the common tricks and spot them early.
Scam Example #1: The “Too-Good-To-Be-True” Quote
You call three movers. Two give prices near $3,000. One says they can do it for $1,200. It sounds like a great deal, so you book them. On moving day, the crew loads your items and then says the price is now $3,800. They claim it’s because of the stairs or because your boxes are “heavier than expected.” If you don’t pay, they threaten to leave your things outside.
How to avoid it:
Get at least three written estimates. If one quote is much lower than the others, be careful. Ask what could raise the price and get that answer in writing.
Scam Example #2: Hostage Storage
A company picks up your things and says delivery will take one week. After the truck leaves, they stop answering your calls. Later, you get a message saying your items are in storage and you must pay extra fees to get them delivered. Many people pay because they feel trapped.
How to avoid it:
Ask where your items will go, how long delivery should take, and what happens if there is a delay. Make sure the contract shows delivery dates and storage rules.
Scam Example #3: Fake Company, Real-Looking Website
Some scammers create nice websites with stolen photos and fake reviews. They take your deposit, set a moving day, and then vanish. When you call, the number does not work. There is no real office.
How to avoid it:
Check that the mover has a real address, a working phone number, and a valid license. Look them up on official state or federal sites. Don’t trust reviews from only one place.
Scam Example #4: Bait-and-Switch Subcontractors
You book a company you researched. But on moving day, a different crew shows up with a rented truck. They say they are “partners.” They don’t follow your quote and charge more. If something breaks, the first company says it wasn’t their crew, so they won’t help.
How to avoid it:
Ask if the company uses subcontractors. Get the answer in writing. The contract should clearly say who is responsible for your move.
Simple Safety Steps Before You Book
- Never sign a blank contract.
- Don’t pay a large deposit up front.
- Get every promise in writing.
- Read the estimate carefully and ask questions.
- Trust your gut if they rush or pressure you.
Move Safely with VIP Moving
Moving scams are real, but you can avoid them by taking the right steps and choosing the right team. If you want a long-distance move with clear pricing, real responsibility, and honest service, get the service from VIP Moving. We give detailed written estimates, use trained crews, and keep you updated from pickup to delivery, so your move stays safe and stress-free.
This post was written by a professional at VIP Moving. Make your next move effortless with VIP Moving, your trusted local movers in Midland and Odessa, TX. We provide top-quality residential and commercial moving services with a personal touch—fast, reliable, and stress-free. Our experts specialize in luxury item moving, including antiques, pianos, and high-value possessions, ensuring your valuables are handled with care. From packing and unpacking delicate items to full-service relocation, we make your move seamless from start to finish. Your move, our priority!
