5 Red Flags When Hiring a Moving Company (And Why WeMove Pittsburgh is Different)
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5 Red Flags When Hiring a Moving Company (And Why WeMove Pittsburgh is Different)

Terry WeMove7 min read2024-08-05

5 Red Flags When Hiring a Moving Company

Hiring the wrong moving company can turn what should be an exciting new chapter into a nightmare. Every year, thousands of people across the country fall victim to moving scams and unprofessional movers. Here is how to protect yourself—and why WeMove Pittsburgh does things differently.

Red Flag #1: No In-Person or Video Estimate

The warning: A company gives you a quote over the phone without seeing your belongings.

Why it is dangerous: Without assessing the actual volume and weight of your items, the quote is a guess. Many dishonest companies give a low phone estimate to win your business, then jack up the price on moving day when your belongings are already on their truck.

How WeMove Pittsburgh is different: We offer instant online pricing through our transparent pricing tool AND we are happy to do video or in-person assessments for larger moves. What we quote is what you pay—guaranteed.

Red Flag #2: Unusually Low Estimates

The warning: One company's quote is dramatically lower than everyone else's.

Why it is dangerous: If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Low-ball estimates are the number one tactic of scam movers. They hook you with a cheap price, then add hidden fees for stairs, long carries, heavy items, packing materials, and more.

How WeMove Pittsburgh is different: Our pricing is honest and competitive because we run an efficient operation, not because we are hiding fees. Every quote is upfront and transparent—what we quote is what you pay, with no surprises on moving day.

Red Flag #3: No License or Insurance Information

The warning: The company cannot provide a USDOT number, state license, or proof of insurance.

Why it is dangerous: Unlicensed movers have zero accountability. If they damage your belongings, lose your items, or hold your possessions hostage (yes, this happens), you have very little legal recourse.

How WeMove Pittsburgh is different: We are fully licensed and insured. We are happy to provide our credentials upon request, and our information is publicly verifiable.

Red Flag #4: Demanding a Large Cash Deposit

The warning: The company requires a large upfront cash deposit before moving day.

Why it is dangerous: Reputable movers rarely require large deposits. Scam companies take your deposit and either do not show up on moving day or provide terrible service knowing they already have your money.

How WeMove Pittsburgh is different: We do not require large upfront deposits. Payment is straightforward and transparent—no surprises, no pressure.

Red Flag #5: No Online Presence or Reviews

The warning: The company has no website, no Google reviews, or only reviews that look fake.

Why it is dangerous: Legitimate moving companies build their reputation over time. A company with no digital footprint could be a fly-by-night operation that changes its name whenever bad reviews pile up.

How WeMove Pittsburgh is different: We have real reviews from real Pittsburgh customers. Check us out on Google—our 5-star reputation speaks for itself.


Why WeMove Pittsburgh is Different

  • WeCharge Less: Fair, transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
  • WeShow Up On Time: When we say 9 AM, we mean 9 AM.
  • WePay Our Guys More: Happy movers mean careful, professional service for your belongings.
  • WeTreat Your Stuff Right: We handle every item like it is our own.
  • Ready to experience the WeMove difference? Get your instant quote today and see why Pittsburgh trusts us with their most important moves.

    T

    Terry WeMove

    Terry is the founder of WeMove Pittsburgh and has been helping Pittsburgh families move for over a decade.

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