Moving Scams and Bad Movers: How to Protect Your Move in Dallas–Fort Worth

Trusted Movers in DFW

Moving can be stressful enough without worrying about dishonest movers. Each year, hundreds of families in North Texas fall victim to moving scams or unprofessional moving companies.
At Firehouse Movers, we’ve spent more than 20 years helping homeowners move safely across Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, and Frisco. As a licensed, insured, firefighter-owned company, we’ve helped customers recover from scam situations and bad experiences.

If you’re searching for reliable Dallas movers, our mission is to help you move with transparency, fairness, and peace of mind.

The Difference Between a Bad Mover and a Moving Scam

It’s important to know the difference between a careless mover and a criminal operation.

• A bad mover: This might include the team being disorganized, untrained, or charging hidden fees.
• A moving company scam is deliberate fraud: There are fake businesses that collect deposits, raise prices mid-move, or disappear altogether.

Moving company scams are becoming increasingly common across the Dallas–Fort Worth area, where unlicensed movers target families looking for last-minute deals or same-day service. Both share warning signs, including poor communication, no local address, or suspicious moving company reviews. Federal regulations require reputable movers to provide written estimates, clear contracts, and a registered USDOT number. Before hiring anyone, check that they appear on the FMCSA: Protect Your Move website.

Moving Scams & Red Flags to Watch Out For

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the Department of Transportation warn against several common moving scams in DFW.
Look out for these red flags before signing any contract:

• No in-home or virtual inspection. Movers must inspect your household goods before quoting.
• Estimates over the phone. The law requires movers to issue binding or fixed estimates in writing.
• Large deposits before service. Legitimate movers rarely request more than a small reservation fee.
• No USDOT or TXDMV registration. Check for credentials on official government websites.
• Fake company names. Scam movers often change their branding or use generic titles to hide complaints.
• Unsecured websites or missing contact info. Never share sensitive information online without HTTPS verification.

If something feels off, it probably is. When a quote sounds too good to be true, that’s often a major red flag. Paying attention to these moving scams red flags early on can help you avoid major losses and choose a legitimate, reputable mover before your moving day begins.

How to Avoid Moving Scams

Learning how to avoid moving scams is one of the most effective ways to protect your household goods and wallet. Follow these steps:

1. Check credentials. Confirm registration with the FMCSA and Texas DMV.
2. Read verified moving reviews. Look for patterns in complaints across multiple platforms.
3. Ask for a written estimate. Movers are required to inspect your items and document all costs.
4. Verify the address. A real, physical location indicates a legitimate mover, not a shell business.
5. Avoid sharing sensitive data. Never provide personal info or deposits over the phone.

Pro Tip: Always choose a reputable moving company that provides clear contracts, secure websites, and consistent communication throughout the moving process.

How to Deal With Bad Movers

Even with research, some moves go wrong. If you’re unsure how to deal with bad movers, take these steps immediately:

• Keep all written communication, receipts, and your original estimate.
• Contact the company in writing to document missed deliveries or extra fees.
• If your items are held hostage, contact local authorities.
• File a complaint with the FMCSA, BBB, and TXDMV (see links below).

Even with the best planning, you may still face unprofessional or unreliable movers. Learning how to deal with bad movers before problems arise can save you time, stress, and potential financial loss. Bad movers can turn a simple relocation into chaos. Working with trusted Dallas moving services like Firehouse Movers ensures accountability and professionalism from start to finish.

If You’ve Been Scammed: File a Report

If you suspect moving fraud or encounter a moving company scam, report it right away. Quick action helps protect both your property and other consumers.

• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA):
  File a complaint through the National Consumer Complaint Database.
• Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV):
  Submit a consumer protection report for in-state moves.
• Better Business Bureau (BBB):
  Check the BBB Scam Tracker or leave an official report.
• Local law enforcement:
  If your items are withheld, contact the police and provide all documentation.

These agencies operate under the Household Goods Transportation Act of 1980, giving consumers the right to file complaints when movers violate contracts or refuse delivery.

FAQs: Avoiding Moving Scams in DFW

What are the most common scams in Dallas–Fort Worth?

The most frequent scams include bait-and-switch pricing, unlicensed movers, and fake companies that hold belongings until extra fees are paid.

How can I check if a mover is legitimate?

Search the company’s USDOT or TXDMV number on the FMCSA website and confirm the local address listed on their company’s website.

Can I get money back after being scammed?

You may recover part of your payment by disputing charges through your credit card provider or filing a claim with the FMCSA or BBB.

Why DFW Families Trust Firehouse Movers

As one of the leading Dallas movers, Firehouse Movers is known for honesty, reliability, and community trust. We provide Dallas moving services across Collin, Tarrant, and Denton Counties from apartments near Frisco Square to homes in McKinney and Irving.

Our crews are fully trained, insured, and never subcontracted. We provide itemized estimates, clear pricing, and support for all types of moving and storage needs. We follow consumer protection regulations to ensure every relocation is transparent and secure.

Move Safely With Firehouse Movers

Don’t risk your belongings with unverified movers and moving scams. Whether you’re moving across town or relocating your business, Firehouse Movers provides licensed, insured, and transparent service throughout DFW.

Call (972) 412-6033 or request a free quote to move confidently with a trusted team that puts integrity first.