It’s time to move! Your general mood, enthusiasm, organization, and – last but not least – the choice of the moving company determines whether this relocation is a ‘yay’ or ‘nay.’ If you are about to search for a chicago moving company to help you relocate, you have to be mindful that there are scammers out there.

Who are the rogue movers? Rogue movers are the ones whos the only goal is to scam the customers by either charging five times the regular price or stealing the money without providing the service, or sometimes even stealing one’s belongings. It sounds harsh, but that is the scary truth. If you are careful enough and well-informed, you’ll be able to find your way around relocation scam experts. Here are some pieces of advice on how to make sure you avoid the scammers entirely and, if you get into that awkward scamming situation, what to do then.

Do Your Research

Chicago is a big city with vast opportunities. The same goes for the choice of moving companies—there are so many of them. The internet is home not only to legitimate, certified companies’ websites but also to rogue relocation businesses that may look professional but are anything but. That’s why it’s critical to be extra cautious!

Here’s how to verify whether a moving company is trustworthy:

  1. Check Licensing and Registration

Every legitimate moving company operating in the U.S. must have a federal motor carrier (MC) or USDOT number. You can verify these numbers on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to confirm the company is registered and authorized.

  1. Read Reviews and Testimonials

Look for customer reviews on trusted platforms such as Google Reviews, Yelp, or Better Business Bureau (BBB). Be wary of companies with consistently poor reviews or complaints about scamming practices.

  1. Examine Their Website

Rogue movers often have poorly designed websites with vague information, lack of contact details, or missing physical addresses. A legitimate company will provide clear and transparent details about their services and credentials.

  1. Ask Questions

Contact the movers and ask detailed questions about their pricing, insurance, and services. If the representatives are evasive or unwilling to answer, it’s a major red flag.

  1. Beware of Too-Good-to-Be-True Deals

If a quote seems unusually low compared to other companies, approach with caution. Scammers often lure victims with attractive prices only to add hidden fees later.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

  1. No Written Estimates

Legitimate movers will always provide a written estimate after assessing your belongings. Avoid companies that refuse to offer an on-site or video estimate and rely only on verbal agreements.

  1. Large Upfront Deposits

Most reputable movers do not require a significant upfront deposit. Be cautious if a company demands a large payment before the move.

  1. Unmarked Vehicles

Professional movers typically use branded trucks and uniforms. Unmarked vehicles can indicate a lack of legitimacy.

I Got Scammed! What Now?

Unfortunately, the worst-case scenario can happen. Even if you feel hopeless, there are steps you can take to address the situation:

  1. Contact Law Enforcement

Report the incident to your local police. Stealing money or belongings is a crime, and involving law enforcement is the first step toward prosecuting the scammers.

  1. Notify the Media

Informing local media outlets can draw attention to the scam and increase pressure on the fraudulent company. Public exposure can deter them from continuing their practices and may help recover your belongings or money.

  1. File a Complaint with FMCSA

The FMCSA allows consumers to report moving scams through their website. Filing a complaint helps document the issue and warns others to avoid falling victim to the same scam.

  1. Alert Consumer Protection Agencies

Contact organizations like the Better Business Bureau (BBB) or the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) to file a formal complaint. These agencies often maintain records of fraudulent companies.

  1. Spread Awareness

Share your experience on social media or review platforms to warn others. By making your story public, you contribute to preventing others from being scammed.

How to Safeguard Yourself in the Future

  1. Get Multiple Quotes

Compare estimates from at least three moving companies to identify fair pricing. Be cautious of significantly low or high estimates.

  1. Insist on Contracts

Always ensure that you have a written contract outlining the services, pricing, and any additional fees.

  1. Research Moving Insurance

Consider purchasing additional insurance to protect your belongings in case of damage or theft. This is especially important for long-distance moves or valuable items.

  1. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, trust your gut and move on to another company. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

Moving is a significant and often stressful event, but ensuring the legitimacy of your moving company can save you from unnecessary complications. Rogue movers prey on uninformed consumers, but with careful research, due diligence, and a healthy dose of skepticism, you can avoid becoming a victim. If you do encounter a scam, take immediate action by involving law enforcement, reporting the incident to authorities, and sharing your experience to protect others.

Remember, relocation is an opportunity for a fresh start—don’t let scammers spoil it. With the right precautions, you’ll find a reputable moving company to help make your transition seamless and stress-free. Good luck with your move!