Top Moving Scams to Watch Out For — and How to Protect Yourself.

Moving is stressful enough without discovering that the company you trusted with everything you own isn’t trustworthy at all. Unfortunately, moving scams continue to affect consumers across the country.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has specifically targeted rogue movers and brokers accused of deceptive practices, including companies that hold customers’ belongings “hostage” while demanding additional money.

Whether you’re moving across Denver or relocating elsewhere in Colorado, knowing the warning signs can help you avoid an expensive moving nightmare.

1. The Too-Good-to-Be-True Estimate

One of the oldest moving scams starts with an unusually low estimate.

A mover quotes a price far below competitors to get your business. Once your belongings are loaded onto the truck, however, the price suddenly increases because of unexpected fees, additional weight, extra labor or other supposed charges.

Protect yourself: Be suspicious of an estimate substantially lower than the others you receive. Ask exactly what is included in the price and get the details in writing. A reputable mover should be willing to explain how your charges are calculated.

2. Holding Your Belongings Hostage

This is one of the most frightening moving scams. After loading your possessions, a dishonest mover demands hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than originally quoted and refuses to deliver your belongings until you pay.

FMCSA has received enough complaints about “hostage loads” that it has conducted nationwide enforcement efforts targeting rogue movers and brokers.

Protect yourself: Research your mover carefully before allowing anything onto the truck. Never sign incomplete or blank documents, and keep copies of your estimate, contract and other paperwork.

3. The Large Upfront Deposit

Be cautious if a mover demands a large cash deposit before moving day. The FTC and FMCSA both identify demands for cash or large upfront deposits as potential warning signs.

In some scams, the supposed mover collects deposits from numerous customers and then simply disappears.

Protect yourself: Understand the company’s deposit and payment policies before booking. Be particularly wary of anyone pressuring you to pay a large amount immediately to “lock in” a special deal. Most reputable moving companies don’t require a downpayment at all!

4. The Moving Broker Disguised as the Mover

You may think you’ve hired the company that will actually move your belongings when you’ve really hired a broker.

Brokers arrange transportation with other companies. While legitimate moving brokers exist, consumers can run into problems when they don’t realize their move is being handed to an entirely different company.

Protect yourself: Ask directly: “Are you the company that will actually be moving my belongings?” Find out who will arrive on moving day and whether employees or outside contractors will handle your possessions.

5. Surprise Charges on Moving Day

Stairs, elevators, long carries, packing materials and other circumstances can sometimes legitimately affect moving costs. The problem occurs when questionable movers fail to discuss potential charges until your belongings are already on the truck.

Protect yourself: Ask about possible additional charges before moving day. If circumstances change significantly, get any revised estimate in writing before loading

begins.

6. Fake Reviews and Questionable Credentials

A polished website doesn’t necessarily mean you’re dealing with an established moving company.

Look beyond a handful of glowing reviews. Check how long the company has actually been in business, whether it has a real physical location, appropriate licensing and insurance, and a substantial history of customer feedback.

How Do You Choose a Reputable Colorado Moving Company?

Start by looking for something scammers can’t manufacture overnight: a long, verifiable track record. Cowboy Moving & Storage has been moving Colorado. families and businesses since 1968. The locally owned and operated company has built its reputation over nearly six decades of serving Colorado customers.

Cowboy Moving & Storage has accumulated thousands of positive customer reviews over the years and maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Just as importantly, when you call Cowboy, you can speak with knowledgeable moving professionals who can answer questions about your move.

Cowboy believes customers deserve straightforward pricing with no hidden surprises, experienced movers and personal service from a company that plans to be here long after your move is finished.

Don’t Trust Your Belongings to Just Anyone

Your furniture, photographs, family heirlooms and personal possessions represent a lifetime of memories. Choosing a mover based solely on the lowest price can be a costly mistake.

Do your homework. Read reviews. Ask questions. Get estimates in writing. Check credentials. And choose a moving company with a reputation you can verify.

If you’re planning a move in Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Grand Junction or anywhere in Colorado, call Cowboy Moving & Storage at (303) 789-2200.

Moving Colorado since 1968. Cowboy Moving & Storage — The Recommended Mover.