💰 Beware the “Lowball Estimate” Moving Scam: Don’t Get Ripped Off!

Picture this: you’re ready for your move, and a moving company offers you a shockingly low quote. You cheer — only for the cost to triple when they’re halfway through. Congratulations, you just met the infamous lowball estimate scam. 😱

What Is the Lowball Estimate Scam?

The lowball estimate scam is simple, yet devious:

1. A mover gives you an unusually low estimate.
2. You book and maybe even pay a deposit.
3. On moving day, once your items are loaded, they claim “extra weight”, “stairs”, “special handling” — and hike the price.
4. You’re locked in: your stuff is in their truck, and they won’t unload until you pay the new inflated bill.

It’s classic bait-and-switch, and it’s been reported by the Department of Transportation, Consumer Reports, and countless victims. 1

🔍 Real Cases You Should Know

1. DOT OIG Conviction (2014): Randy Goldberg, owner of National Moving Network, gave low estimates to lure customers, then referred them to another company that slapped them with huge final bills — far beyond published rates. He received 18 months in prison and was ordered to pay restitution. 2

2. Consumer Reports Watchdog: Noted similar scams in Massachusetts and New Jersey, where movers threatened to auction goods unless clients paid excessive fees. Over 8,500 complaints were filed with BBB in a year. 3

3. Consumer Reports Las Vegas Case: A woman paid $1,700 upfront to move to Texas — only to find her items diverted to a storage facility. She had to pay another $450 to get them released, and eventually the move cost over $4,000. 4

😂 How the Scam Plays Out (A Comic Version)

Imagine this as a mini-skit:

• Mover: “Oh, it’s just a cozy studio, 2-bedroom? We got you: $800 flat.”
• You: “Woohoo! That’s under budget!”
• [Moving Day] – They pack up while you watch TV.
• Mover: “Uh… your boxes are 200 lbs heavier than we thought, stairs? fuel? tolls? Now it’s $2,500.”
• You (eyes wide): “But… that wasn’t the quote!”
• Mover: “Sign here or no sofa. Also, your cat-in-a-box — $50 extra.”
• You (defeated): “Fine… here’s my card.”

The kicker? They have all your stuff. You’re trapped in move limbo — unless you want to hire a lawyer or sleep on the floor.

🚨 Red Flags to Watch

• Quotes way below the average local price. Compare it (e.g., from Consumer Reports, NerdWallet). 5
• Non-binding estimates given via phone or email — no one sets foot in your place. 6
• Deposit requests >20% or cash-only demands. 7
• Clear threats: “Pay more or we keep your stuff.”
• No copies of written binding estimates or contracts.

🧠 Don’t Be a Victim – How to Avoid It

1. Get 3+ in-person binding estimates. If they won’t show up, skip them. 8
2. Watch the weigh-in: Trucks should be weighed before & after loading—and you watch. 9
3. Read contracts carefully: Watch for blanks and vague clauses.
4. Use credit/debit card: No cash-only deals. At least you can dispute charges.
5. Verify licenses: For interstate, check USDOT via FMCSA; for local, confirm state registration. 10
6. Compare reviews: Look for consistent complaints about low prices that balloon.
7. Walk away: If it feels fishy, it probably is.

🎯 Final Thoughts – Be Smart, Move Safe

The lowball estimate scam thrives on stress, urgency, and surprise. But with simple checks and a little patience, you can avoid becoming a scam statistic. Do your homework, get things in writing, and protect your stuff — and your wallet.

Your move should be a new chapter, not a worry-filled sequel riddled with hidden fees. Shield your belongings and your zen: smart planning beats comedy—or tragedy—every time. 🏡

If you enjoyed this guide, share it with anyone planning a move—and let’s keep the scammers out!