Navigating the stress of a move can feel overwhelming, but making conscious choices, delegating tasks wisely, and keeping your focus on the exciting future ahead can provide you peace of mind. One of the most important decisions you’ll face is hiring a moving company you can trust, one that won’t hit you with hidden fees or shady practices.
In this blog, we’ll share practical tips to avoid common scams and help you choose a reliable moving company in Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, and Fort Worth, so you can move with confidence!
What Are Common Moving Company Scams and How Can You Spot Them?
Moving company scams happen more often than you might think. Some scammers lure customers with low estimates, only to demand extra fees on moving day. Others hold your belongings hostage until you pay more. These scams can happen whether you hire a small moving company, a large moving & storage service, or long-distance movers in Houston or Austin.
Be wary of movers who:
- Offer prices far below competitors, such as cheap movers in Dallas with suspiciously low rates.
- Refuse to provide a written contract or bill of lading.
- Only accept cash payments without receipts.
- Rush through estimates without inspecting your belongings.
Take extra care to verify the company’s credentials and reputation before booking. Ward North American was the recipient of the North American Van Lines Agent of the Year Award for 2019 and the 2014 AMSA Agent of the Year Service Excellence Award!
How to Choose a Trusted Moving & Storage Service
Finding a reputable moving & storage service starts with research. Whether you need movers in Dallas, movers in Houston, or movers in Austin, follow these tips:
- Check if the company is licensed and insured. For long distance moves, federal registration is a must.
- Read reviews and ask for referrals to find the best movers in Texas.
- Request in-home or video estimates to get accurate quotes.
- Avoid companies without a physical office or with no branded trucks.
- Compare multiple quotes, including from top moving companies and established movers.
Using these steps helps ensure your moving companies, whether in Fort Worth or Houston or anywhere else in Texas, are trustworthy. Ward North American is proud to be considered one of the most reliable movers throughout Texas.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Moving Company
Before hiring, ask the moving company these key questions to avoid surprises:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- How do you calculate your rates? By weight, volume, or hourly?
- Are there any additional or hidden fees?
- Can you provide references or reviews from recent customers?
- Do you offer local furniture delivery services?
- What is your policy on damages or lost items?
These questions are important whether you are hiring a small moving company nearby or looking for reliable moving services in Dallas. At Ward North American, we are happy to answer any questions you have to ensure a trustworthy, reliable move.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Watch for these warning signs when searching for a moving company:
- No physical address or operating only online.
- Demanding large deposits or full payment upfront.
- No written contract or unclear billing practices.
- Pushy sales tactics or pressure to sign quickly.
- Lack of insurance information.
If you encounter these red flags, look elsewhere for a trustworthy moving company.
Understanding Your Rights When Hiring Movers
Knowing your rights protects you during your move. Federal regulations require movers to provide a written contract and bill of lading. You have the right to:
- Receive a clear, binding estimate for long distance movers in Houston or
- Obtain insurance options for your belongings.
- File a complaint with the Department of Transportation if a moving company scam
Whether you’re moving from Austin, Dallas, or somewhere else, it’s important to review all paperwork carefully. Ward North American’s representatives will go through all of this with you before you sign anything.
How to Protect Your Belongings During Your Move
To keep your items safe, take these precautions:
- Make an inventory list and photograph your belongings.
- Label boxes clearly and pack fragile items carefully.
- Consider using local furniture delivery services for large or valuable pieces.
- Be present during the loading and unloading process to oversee your items.
These tips help whether you hire movers in Austin, movers in Houston, or a small moving company for a local move. Whether you’re moving across town or to a new corner of Texas, our expert moving team is dedicated to making your transition seamless and stress-free. Serving both homes and businesses statewide, we provide customized moving solutions designed to fit your unique needs, no matter your destination.
Hiring the Best Moving Companies in Texas
Taking the time to research and ask the right questions will ensure you’re protected, whether you’re looking for Dallas moving services, trusted movers in Fort Worth, Houston moving companies, or local small moving companies. Remember, the best movers in Texas have excellent reputations, clear pricing, and offer full transparency every step of the way. If you want help finding reliable movers in your area or have questions about moving and storage service options, check out our moving resource guides or contact us for a free estimate.
For nearly 50 years, we’ve proudly partnered with North American Van Lines, and Ward North American is an award-winning top agent for North American families. Our commitment to exceptional service is a shared value across our ownership, management, and staff. With strict operational systems in place, we ensure efficient execution and consistently high-quality standards in every move we handle.
