Moving in Los Angeles can be exciting, but it can also be stressful. Between packing, finding the right moving company, and dealing with LA’s notorious traffic, the last thing you want is to fall victim to moving scams in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, dishonest movers exist, and they often target people who are under time pressure or looking for the cheapest price.
This guide will help you avoid moving scams in LA by explaining the most common tricks, the red flags to watch out for, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your belongings.
Why Moving Scams Happen in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is one of the busiest cities in the United States, with thousands of people moving in and out every year. The high demand for moving services attracts both professional moving companies and fraudulent operators looking to make a quick profit.
Scammers often use:
- Online ads with low-ball pricing
- Fake “local mover” listings
- Pressure tactics to lock you in without a proper written confirmation
If you’re not careful, these practices can leave you with unexpected costs, damaged items, or even lost belongings.
The Most Common Moving Scams in Los Angeles
1. The Low-Ball Estimate Trick
You find a mover offering unbelievably cheap rates — sometimes 30–40% lower than competitors. Once the movers load your items onto the truck, the price suddenly doubles or triples. They claim “extra fees” for stairs, heavy furniture, or fuel, which were never mentioned upfront.
How to avoid it: Always ask for a written, detailed estimate that includes potential extra charges. Reputable movers will provide transparency from the start.
2. Holding Your Belongings Hostage
This is one of the most frightening moving scams in Los Angeles. After your items are loaded, the movers refuse to deliver them until you pay an inflated fee. They exploit your urgency and leave you with little choice.
How to avoid it: Check if the company is licensed with the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS). Licensed movers cannot legally hold belongings hostage.
3. Hidden Fees in the Fine Print
Shady companies may bury charges in their contracts, such as:
- “Long carry” fees for walking more than 50 feet
- “Stair” fees for multi-level buildings
- “Service” or “truck” fees
How to avoid it: Read every part of the contract before signing. Ask the company to confirm in writing that no hidden fees will apply.
4. Fake Local Movers with No Office
Some scammers pose as Los Angeles moving companies, but in reality, they are out-of-state brokers or individuals with no physical location. They subcontract the job to untrained workers, putting your belongings at risk.
How to avoid it: Verify that the moving company has a legitimate physical location and confirm their license number through the BHGS website.
5. No Insurance or Coverage
Unlicensed movers often skip liability coverage. If something breaks or disappears, you’re left paying for it.
How to avoid it: Ask about valuation options and insurance. A professional moving company will always offer coverage for your belongings.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Here are some warning signs that you may be dealing with a scammer:
- Only accepts cash or large deposits upfront
- Refuses to provide a written estimate or booking confirmation
- Does not provide a physical address or a valid license number
- Has no reviews, or fake-sounding online reviews — if you’re unsure, check our detailed guide on How to Recognize Fake Reviews: 2025 Guide.
- Offers a rate much lower than the competition
If you notice any of these, it’s best to keep searching.
How to Protect Yourself from Moving Scams in LA
Research Before You Book
- Search for “moving scams Los Angeles” and see if the company name shows up.
- Check reviews on Google and Yelp.
- Look up the company on the California BHGS license database.
Ask the Right Questions
- Is your company licensed and insured?
- Can you provide a written estimate?
- Are there any possible extra fees?
- Who will be handling my move — your employees or subcontractors?
Get Everything in Writing
Verbal promises mean nothing if a dispute arises. Always insist on a signed contract that clearly outlines costs, coverage, and timelines.
Why Choosing the Right Moving Company Matters
When you hire the wrong movers, you don’t just risk your furniture — you risk your peace of mind. A move is stressful enough without surprise charges or dishonest practices. Working with reliable moving company ensures your belongings are safe and your moving day goes smoothly.
At SQ Moving Company, we’ve built our reputation on transparency, honesty, and care. We never surprise clients with hidden fees. Our licensed and insured crews handle every move with professionalism, whether it’s a local apartment move or a long-distance relocation.
Real-Life Examples of Moving Scams in Los Angeles
- Case 1: A family moving from Hollywood to Santa Monica was quoted $800. Once the truck was loaded, the movers demanded $2,500, claiming “long carry fees.”
- Case 2: A student relocating to downtown LA paid a deposit online to a company with no office. On moving day, no one showed up, and the company stopped answering calls.
Stories like these highlight why it’s so important to learn how to avoid moving scams in LA.
What to Do If You’ve Been Scammed
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a moving scam in Los Angeles, take these steps immediately:
1. File a Complaint with BHGS
Submit a formal complaint with the California Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS) to initiate an investigation.
2. Report to Law Enforcement and the Court
File a police report to document the incident, and if applicable, pursue a claim in Los Angeles Superior Court Small Claims Division to recover losses.
3. Warn Others Online
Share detailed reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp to help others avoid the same scam.
4. Take Action if Items Are Held Hostage
If movers refuse to release your belongings without additional payment, immediately contact local law enforcement for assistance.
Quick Checklist to Avoid Moving Scams in Los Angeles
✅ Verify the mover’s license with BHGS
✅ Read reviews from multiple platforms
✅ Get at least 3 written estimates
✅ Never pay large deposits upfront
✅ Ask about insurance coverage
✅ Watch for vague or incomplete contracts
Final Thoughts
The best way to avoid moving scams in Los Angeles is to stay informed, do your research, and never rush into booking the first company that gives you a “too good to be true” price. Scammers rely on urgency and confusion — but with the right preparation, you can protect yourself and your belongings.
If you want a safe, reliable, and stress-free moving experience in Los Angeles, trust the team at SQ Moving Company. We provide transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and a professional crew that treats your items like their own.
