Hiring a moving company should make your life easier—not harder. Unfortunately, many customers fall victim to unreliable, unlicensed, or downright shady movers who overcharge, damage belongings, or disappear when things go wrong.
At Liberty Pro Moving, we’ve heard the horror stories—and we’re here to help you avoid becoming one of them. If you’re planning a move in Atlanta or anywhere in the Southeast, knowing what to watch out for can save you stress, money, and your most valuable possessions.
10 Red Flags to Watch for When Hiring a Moving Company
1. No License or Insurance
If a moving company isn’t licensed or insured, you’re taking a major gamble.
Why it matters:
- No accountability if items are lost or damaged
- No protection if someone gets injured on your property
- No legal backing if you need to file a claim
How to protect yourself: Always ask for a DOT number (for interstate movers) or proof of registration with the Georgia Department of Public Safety (GDPS). Request proof of liability, cargo, and workers’ compensation insurance.
2. No Written Estimates or Contracts
A handshake isn’t good enough when your furniture and valuables are on the line.
Red flag: Movers give you a verbal quote with no paperwork or rush you to sign a vague, one-page agreement.
Protect yourself: Get everything in writing—scope of work, costs, delivery date, cancellation policy, and insurance terms. At Liberty Pro Moving, we provide detailed, easy-to-understand quotes upfront.
3. Vague or Shady Pricing
Watch for:
- “Guaranteed low prices!”
- Quotes that seem too good to be true
- Hidden fees revealed after your items are loaded
Pro tip: Ask for a detailed breakdown of all costs. Reputable movers will explain their hourly rates, fuel charges, and any potential extra fees in advance.
4. Unmarked Trucks and No Uniforms
Would you trust someone with your entire home who shows up in a rented van and no company shirt?
Unmarked vehicles and unbranded attire are often signs of a fly-by-night operation.
At Liberty Pro Moving, our crews arrive in clearly marked, well-equipped trucks, in uniform, and ready to work with care and professionalism.
5. Poor or Nonexistent Online Reviews
Online reviews matter. If a company has:
- No Google reviews
- Only five-star reviews (all from the same week)
- A flood of one-star horror stories
That’s a red flag.
Protect yourself: Look at Google, Yelp, BBB, and even social media. See how the company responds to complaints. A lack of transparency online is usually a sign of trouble offline.
6. Demanding Large Cash Deposits Upfront
A small deposit is normal to reserve your move date. But if they demand 50% or more upfront—especially in cash—run.
Scam movers may disappear after collecting your deposit or hold your items hostage until you pay more.
We only require a small booking deposit—and the rest is paid after the job is done right.
7. No Physical Business Address
If the company only lists a phone number or a vague city name, beware.
Legitimate moving companies have an office, warehouse, or at least a registered address.
Do this: Check their website and Google Business Profile. If you can’t verify their location, don’t trust them with your location.
8. Rushed or Incomplete Walkthroughs
Before giving a quote, reputable movers should ask about:
- Stairs
- Elevators
- Furniture size
- Fragile items
- Special handling needs
Scammers often skip this step and give “flat rates” without understanding your move. That’s how they justify extra charges later.
At Liberty Pro Moving, we take the time to understand every move before we quote it.
9. Bad Communication or Pushy Sales Tactics
You deserve to feel comfortable and in control of your move.
Red flag behaviors include:
- Ignoring your calls
- Being vague in responses
- Pressuring you to book right away
- Changing details without notice
A good mover communicates clearly and respects your questions. If they make you uneasy now, imagine how they’ll act on moving day.
10. They Can’t Answer Your Questions
If a company can’t answer basic questions like:
- “Are you licensed?”
- “What insurance do you carry?”
- “How long have you been in business?”
- “Can I speak to a previous customer?”
Then you shouldn’t trust them with your home.
At Liberty Pro Moving, we welcome your questions—and we’ll answer them all with transparency and pride.
BONUS: Why Liberty Pro Moving Is the Safer Choice
Here’s why hundreds of Atlanta-area families and businesses trust Liberty Pro Moving:
- Fully licensed & insured
- Transparent pricing with no surprises
- Clean trucks & uniformed crews
- Real customer reviews & testimonials
- No-pressure consultations & free estimates
How to Get a Free, No-Pressure Moving Quote
Moving shouldn’t be a gamble. If you want a stress-free experience with professionals you can trust, contact Liberty Pro Moving today for a free, no-obligation quote.
