One way moving companies take advantage of unwary customers is by estimating the volume of the belongings to be moved and then giving you a price later, based on the weight of those items. Be sure to get an estimate from the moving companies you are considering based on the weight. As of 2005, interstate moves based on volume are illegal.

The most common scam perpetrated by moving companies is the low-ball. Movers will treat you like a king and quote you a very low price in order to get your business, but once they show up and move most of your belongings onto the truck, then they give you the real price. Once your possessions are on the truck, they then refuse to take them off until you pay them in cash, and if you refuse, they threaten to take your belongings and sell them to recoup the costs of the load-in. Be sure to get the total cost in writing before they come to get your belongings.

Another thing that customers should be sure to get in writing from moving companies is the estimated time of arrival. Unless it is in writing, a moving company is under no obligation to get you your belongings in a timely fashion and instead of an easy move into your new home, you could be stuck waiting for the movers for days. Always check the small print of any contract you are signing. It is there where the company will try to slip something by you.