25.87 million Americans—that’s 7.8% of the population—packed up their lives and moved in 2024 according to HireAHelper. Some relocated just a few blocks away, trading up for a bigger apartment or a dream home.

Others left high-tax states in search of more tax-friendly havens. And then there were those who sold their homes entirely, chasing the promise of a quieter life in states like Vermont or Iowa, where lower costs of living and sprawling land beckoned.

The reasons for moving are as varied as the destinations—some flocked to bustling metro cities, while others sought refuge in smaller towns. The possibilities are endless.

But no matter the reason or the destination, one thing unites every person who moves: stress. Moving isn’t just emotionally taxing—leaving behind a place filled with memories and routines—it’s also a logistical nightmare, especially for families or those with large households. From packing up a lifetime of belongings to coordinating timelines, the process can feel overwhelming.

That’s why so many of these 25 million Americans turned to moving companies for help. After all, hiring professionals should make the process smoother, right?

Well, not always. While some movers had seamless experiences, others might have a few choice words about their moving company. From hidden fees to damaged belongings, the pitfalls of hiring the wrong movers can turn an already stressful situation into a full-blown nightmare.

If you’re planning a move and considering hiring a moving company, you’ll want to avoid the red flags that can lead to disaster. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the warning signs to watch out for, so you can ensure your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible. Because let’s face it—moving is hard enough without adding a bad moving company to the mix.

 

Why Choosing the Right Moving Company Matters

Moving isn’t just about logistics and moving boxes from A to B.Hiring the wrong movers can lead to a cascade of problems that turn your move into a nightmare. Not choosing the right moving company will cause you:

  • Delayed or lost belongings: Imagine waiting weeks for your essentials to arrive, only to find out some items are missing entirely.
  • Hidden fees and unexpected charges: That “affordable” quote can quickly balloon into a bill you never saw coming.
  • Damaged furniture with no compensation: Scratched tables, broken heirlooms, and no recourse to recover the loss.
  • Moving scams: From fake companies to movers holding your belongings hostage until you pay exorbitant fees, the tactics are as shady as they are stressful.

 

These risks are especially concerning in high-demand areas like Henrico, VA, where the growing number of people relocating has created a prime opportunity for scammers to take advantage. With so many families and individuals looking for the next movers to hire, dishonest companies see an opening to exploit the unprepared.

So, how do you avoid a bad moving experience? Let’s look at the biggest red flags to watch out for. By knowing what to spot, you can protect yourself, your belongings, and your peace of mind.

 

Red Flags to Watch Out For

No License or Insurance

Why it’s a red flag

Unlicensed movers operate without legal accountability, leaving you vulnerable if something goes wrong. No insurance means you’re on the hook for any damages or losses.

 

How To Check Movers License or Insurance

  • For interstate moves, verify their USDOT number on the FMCSA website.
  • For local moves in Henrico, VA, ensure they meet state licensing requirements.

 

Insurance Options

  • Standard Valuation Protection: This basic coverage is typically included at no charge and covers items at $0.60 per pound. While it’s a start, it may not be sufficient for valuable items.
  • Supplemental Valuation: Consider purchasing additional insurance for full replacement value, especially for high-value belongings.

If a company doesn’t offer these protections or refuses to clarify their insurance policies, that’s a major red flag. Make sure you understand the claims process and the coverage you’re getting.

Example: One family hired a non-licensed mover to save money, only to have their belongings held hostage until they paid double the original quote. When the items finally arrived damaged, they had no recourse—no license, no insurance, no accountability. Don’t let this happen to you.

 

Suspiciously Low Estimates

Super-low quotes can be a trap—movers hook you with a bargain, then tack on charges like fuel, stair, or long-carry fees on moving day. To steer clear, get several quotes from Henrico movers and ask if they’re binding (fixed) or non-binding (flexible).

One local learned this the hard way: they picked a cheap mover, only to face a hefty surprise bill when the truck arrived.

 

Bad Reviews & Complaints

A pile of bad reviews signals trouble—think consistent gripes about damages, delays, or price jumps.

Scope out Google Reviews, Yelp, BBB, and the FMCSA complaint database. Watch for recent issues and be skeptical of generic, overly rosy reviews that might be fake.

Pro tip: Ask for references from recent Henrico customers to get the real scoop.

 

No Physical Address or Office

No real address? That’s a major red flag. Scammers often operate solely online, with no physical location to hold them accountable. This makes it nearly impossible to track them down if something goes wrong.

Always verify the company’s legitimacy by checking for a physical address in Henrico, VA.

Use Google Maps to confirm the location, and don’t hesitate to call or even visit their office to ensure they’re the real deal.

A reputable moving company will have nothing to hide and will welcome your due diligence. Don’t risk your belongings to a ghost operation—always demand transparency.

 

Demand for Large Deposits Upfront

Legitimate moving companies typically don’t ask for large upfront deposits. Scammers, on the other hand, often demand hefty sums and then disappear, leaving you stranded on moving day.

Always remember:

  • If a deposit is required, it should be minimal—no more than 10-20% of the total cost.
  • Always pay with a credit card, not cash, to ensure you have recourse if something goes wrong.

Protect yourself by avoiding movers who pressure you for large deposits upfront. A trustworthy company will work with you to create a payment plan that feels fair and secure.

 

Cash Payments

Unfortunately, not all moving companies in Henrico, VA operate ethically. Some more red flags to avoid when choosing movers are:

  • Cash-only payments: Legitimate companies accept multiple payment methods, not just cash.
  • No in-person or virtual survey: Accurate estimates require an assessment of your belongings. Avoid companies that rely solely on phone surveys.
  • No written quote: Always insist on a written quote to avoid disputes over pricing.

 

How to Find a Trustworthy Moving Company in Henrico, VA

Finding a reliable moving company doesn’t have to be a gamble. Here’s how to ensure you’re hiring a reputable mover:

 

Research local moving companies:

  • Search for “movers in Henrico, VA” and read reviews on Google and Yelp.
  • Visit their website and verify their licenses and insurance.

 

Ask the right questions:

  • Do you have a USDOT number? (For interstate moves.)
  • Is your quote binding or non-binding?
  • What insurance options do you offer?

 

Look for affiliations:

  • Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation.
  • American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) membership.

By doing your homework and asking the right questions, you can avoid scams and find a moving company that prioritizes your peace of mind. Don’t settle for less—your move deserves to be stress-free!

 

Local Movers vs Big Name Franchise

When choosing the best moving company in Henrico, VA, you might be tempted by big-name franchises, thinking they’re the safest pick. But those recognizable logos often come with steep prices that don’t always deliver better service.

Local Henrico movers, on the other hand, can offer a smarter choice. They’re typically more affordable, rooted in the Henrico community, and focused on earning your trust with personalized care that big chains struggle to replicate.

Watch out for overpriced franchises that lean on their name rather than quality—local moving companies often strike the perfect balance of cost, reliability, and attention to detail for your move.

 

Take Control of Your Move

Moving is a big undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be a source of frustration. By carefully vetting moving companies, asking the right questions, and choosing a reputable mover in Henrico, VA, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smoother transition.

If you’re looking for a moving company that checks all the right boxes—licensed, insured, reliable, and customer-focused—Cavalier Moving stands out as a top choice in Henrico, VA. With a strong reputation for professionalism, transparent pricing, and exceptional customer service, they provide a moving experience that’s smooth and stress-free.

Contact us today for a free quote and move with confidence!