Watch Out for These 5 Common Moving Scams

Moving to a new home can be exciting, but it also comes with risks—especially when dealing with shady moving companies. Every year, thousands of people fall victim to moving scams, losing money, possessions, and peace of mind. From lowball estimates to hostage loads, scammers use deceptive tactics to trap unsuspecting customers.

But here’s the good news: you can protect yourself by knowing the warning signs. In this guide, we’ll uncover the five most common moving scams and how to avoid them. Plus, we’ll introduce you to Affinity Moving Company, a trusted and reputable moving service in Minneapolis, MN that ensures a stress-free and honest moving experience.

Let’s dive in! 🚚💨

1. The Lowball Estimate Scam

🚨 The Trap:

A mover gives you an unbelievably low quote over the phone or online, without seeing your belongings. It seems like a great deal—until moving day. Suddenly, they claim your move requires extra charges for weight, labor, or "unexpected difficulties." If you refuse to pay, they threaten to hold your belongings hostage or cancel the move last minute.

🔎 How to Spot It:

The company refuses to do an in-home estimate or inspect your items.
The quote seems too good to be true compared to others.
They ask for a large upfront deposit before the move.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Get at least three quotes from different movers and compare.
Request written estimates with detailed pricing.
Choose reputable movers like Affinity Moving Company, which offers transparent and fair pricing upfront.

2. The Hostage Load Scam

🚨 The Trap:

You’ve packed everything, the movers load up your items, and you expect a smooth delivery. But once your belongings are on the truck, the company demands more money—often double or triple the original estimate. If you don’t pay, they refuse to unload your items or even disappear with them.

🔎 How to Spot It:

The moving company avoids providing a written contract.
The movers seem rushed or careless when loading your items.
You notice vague language in their terms, like “additional fees may apply.”

✅ How to Avoid It:

Always sign a detailed contract before moving day.
Research movers with strong reviews and verified credentials.
Trust companies like Affinity Moving Company, which has clear policies and ethical business practices.

3. The Fake Moving Company Scam

🚨 The Trap:

Scammers create fake moving websites, using stolen company names and stock photos. They offer cheap rates to lure customers in, ask for a deposit, and then disappear. Victims often realize too late that the company doesn't exist.

🔎 How to Spot It:

The company has no physical address or office location.
They only accept wire transfers or cash payments.
Their website has a poor design, no reviews, or generic stock images.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Check the mover’s USDOT number at the FMCSA website (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
Call the company’s office number to verify they exist.
Choose Affinity Moving Company, a licensed and insured mover with a proven track record in Minneapolis, MN.

4. The Bait-and-Switch Scam

🚨 The Trap:

You receive a reasonable estimate, but on a moving day, the company suddenly raises the price—citing extra labor, packing materials, or "unexpected circumstances." Since you’re already committed, you feel pressured to pay more than agreed.

🔎 How to Spot It:

The contract contains hidden fees or vague language.
The company refuses to honor its original quote.
The movers demand immediate payment in cash.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Always get a binding estimate in writing.
Read the contract thoroughly before signing.
Work with honest professionals like Affinity Moving Company, where pricing is clear, fair, and upfront.

5. The Blank Contract Trick

🚨 The Trap:

A moving company asks you to sign an incomplete contract, promising they’ll "fill in the details later." Once signed, they add extra charges or change terms without your consent.

🔎 How to Spot It:

The contract has blank spaces or missing details.
The company pressures you to sign quickly.
They refuse to provide a copy of the contract after signing.

✅ How to Avoid It:

Never sign a blank or incomplete contract.
Insist on getting a copy of the signed agreement.
Rely on Affinity Moving Company, where contracts are clear, complete, and legally binding.

How to Avoid Moving Scams

✅ Check for licenses – Make sure the mover is FMCSA registered.
✅ Read reviews – Look for Google, Yelp, and BBB ratings.
✅ Beware of large deposits – Legit movers charge upon delivery, not upfront.
✅ Get everything in writing – Verbal agreements are not legally binding.
✅ Trust reputable companies – Like Affinity Moving Company, which is licensed, insured, and transparent.

Conclusion

Moving should be exciting, not stressful. Unfortunately, scam artists take advantage of unsuspecting customers every day. By staying informed and working with trusted professionals, you can avoid fraud, financial loss, and unnecessary headaches.

If you're moving in Minneapolis, MN, don’t take chances with shady movers. Affinity Moving Company is a legitimate, fully insured, and highly-rated moving service that prioritizes honesty, transparency, and customer satisfaction.

📞 Contact Affinity Moving Company today for a stress-free, scam-free moving experience!

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