Moving Scams

What Is A Moving Broker

Posted on 07/23/201804/10/2026 by BigApple

When it comes to the relocation process, you need all the help you can get. No matter where this help is coming from, it is always more than welcome. One thing we all know can aid us greatly in the relocation process are reputable movers. Moreover, not only can they help us, but they are also necessary for any moving to go smoothly.

And, if you don’t have enough time to put in hours of research into finding reliable movers, you can always rely on a moving broker. In case this is the first time you hear of this term, stick with us. Let Big Apple Movers teach you what exactly a moving broker is, and why you should hire one the next time you move!

What Is a Moving Broker?

First things first, you need to be familiar with the term ‘moving broker’ before you decide you need one. A moving broker is a middleman between you and all the available moving companies on the market.

He or she is a professional, who can give you an estimate and find the best possible moving company for you. Whether you need residential or office moving experts, you can rest assured your broker will be able to find the best one for you.

Moreover, they work for a fee and are usually cheaper than moving companies. Don`t get us wrong. Moving brokers do not equal moving companies. A broker’s job is to find a suitable moving company for your needs.

However, as nothing in life is perfect, the same applies to these relocation professionals. There are certain things you should be wary about when looking for your broker.

What Are the Risks Associated with Moving Brokers?

Hiring a broker comes with a certain amount of risks. For starters, there is a chance that the broker`s estimate might not be suitable and that it will not be accepted by the moving companies. Usually, this is because the broker`s estimate is too low. In case this happens, you would be left without a moving company on your moving day. Can you imagine a worse scenario?

Furthermore, you need to check whether your moving brokers are licensed and insured! Just like a lot of moving scams and fraudulent companies have resurfaced lately, so have unlicensed moving brokers. So, how can you ensure that a moving broker you are interested in is indeed legit?

Look for a moving broker that is registered with the FMCSA.
Ask them to show you a list of the moving companies they usually work with.
Moreover, ask to see the written agreements they have with those movers.

Once you ensure that the coast is clear and that your moving brokers are who they advertise they are, you can proceed with hiring them.

Moving Broker vs Moving Company

While both options offer services related to moving, they have distinct roles and functions. Understanding the difference between a moving broker and a moving company can help you make an informed choice that suits your needs and preferences.

Moving Broker

A moving broker is an intermediary or middleman that acts as a link between you, the customer, and various moving companies. Instead of physically handling the moving process, a broker facilitates the connection between you and a moving company that can best accommodate your needs. Here’s how a moving broker works:

Estimates and Options: When you approach a moving broker, they gather information about your move, such as the distance, size of the move, and specific requirements. Based on this information, they provide you with estimates from different moving companies within their network.
Connections: The broker has established relationships with a network of moving companies. They match your requirements with a suitable mover from their pool of partners.
Negotiations: The broker negotiates the terms of the move on your behalf, including pricing and services. They aim to secure the best deal for you.
Coordination: Once you’ve chosen a moving company, the broker coordinates the details of the move, including scheduling and logistics.

Moving Company

A moving company is a business that specializes in providing moving services. When you hire a moving company, they handle various aspects of the move directly, from packing and loading to transportation and unloading. Here’s what to expect when working with a moving company:

Direct Service: A moving company is responsible for all aspects of the move. They have their own team of movers and equipment.
Customized Service: You work directly with the moving company to outline your requirements and preferences for the move.
Responsibility: The moving company is accountable for the entire process, ensuring that your belongings are handled safely and efficiently.

Conclusion

In case you weren’t paying close attention, let us sum it up for you. A moving broker is a person who conducts its business between two parties – a client and moving companies. They are a good way to save money in the Big Apple since their fees are affordable. However, even they don`t come without risks, which is why you should make sure they possess the necessary licenses.

How to escape Manhattan moving scams?

Posted on 04/25/201804/10/2026 by BigApple

Moving can be stressful and overwhelming so being well organized is imperative. Hiring the right movers is the most important thing in your moving process. Be sure to look for the best moving services in Manhattan and hire your reliable movers. Reliability, honesty, and professionalism are the most important traits a moving company should have. But, how do you know that your moving company is reliable? You should do a detailed background check and make sure that you follow the guidelines you are going to read here. Yes, moving scams are possible and doing a detailed check is the best way to avoid Manhattan moving scams.

road sign that says SCAM - avoid Manhattan moving scams — Do a detailed background check to avoid Manhattan moving scams

How to avoid Manhattan moving scams

You should always choose an experienced moving company with a long history. If a moving company has been out there for a very long time they are probably very reputable. These companies care about their reputation and that is why they are still working and functioning. Just think about it, if there were scams they would be reported. If a lot of people report scams the authorities will check this out and close the business of the moving company. If this hasn’t happened by now it probably will not happen in the future. So this is a good guarantee that the moving company is legit.

Check if the company is insured

It is very important to check if the company has all of the necessary papers and that they are insured. They need to have insurance against any unfortunate mistakes that might happen. They should also ask you if you have insurance. If you don’t they should offer you to buy an insurance policy from them. If this happens it is a sure sign that they are reputable and that they care about their clients. In addition, you should check if their workers are bounded. A reputable moving company will have bounded workers that work under a legitimate contract. You should check this as well.

Get references and check their BBB rating

What you should definitely do is check online reviews of the company. This should give you some kind of an insight into the experiences of the prior customers. Moreover, to be completely sure they are legit ask for a contact number and names of some previous satisfied customers. A good and reputable company will not have a problem with this.They will gladly comply with your wishes. However, if they don’t accept you should just move on. It is a good idea to check the company at Better Business Bureau. Focus on moving scam reports. You will be able to track any kind of bad reports of the company here. This is a sure way to avoid Manhattan moving scams.

lap top that says fraud alert - avoid Manhattan moving scams — Check online reviews to avoid Manhattan moving scams

Additional things to do to avoid Manhattan moving scams

Here is a valuable piece of advice for you. You should plan your move well in advance because this is a sure way to hire the best and the most reliable companies. If you plan in time you will get these benefits

You will hire the best and most reliable companies
Tou might get a discount. So first learn about the NYC moving costs and them book way before the move to get great discounts.

If you don’t act in time others will book all of the best moving companies.

Ask your real estate agent for some advice

You might be quite inexperienced when it comes to moving scams but your real estate agent has seen it all a million times before. Both good and bad news spread like wildfire. You should ask your real estate agent for some information and recommendations. If the moving company you want to opt for has been involved in any Manhattan moving scams your agent will probably have some information about this. You should ask them about the good and bad experiences of their previous clients. They are a wonderful and reliable source of information.

Ask for a detailed contract

A reliable moving company will make a detailed and elaborate contract. Be sure to know what you are signing. The contract should include their estimate, all of their fees and additional fees and exact date of the move. Check all of this before you sign anything.It should match the information they have given you beforehand. If there is no paperwork than you can be sure that you are dealing with scammers.

Never settle for large deposits

If the moving company is asking you to pay a large deposit there is something wrong there. A reliable company will only ask you to leave a small deposit as a sign of trust and goodwill. If you are asking about the sum of money it is usually between 100 and 500 dollars. If your moving company is asking for much more than this something is fishy and you should avoid them. Pay attention to the cost of the move. If the cost is too cheap or much cheaper than you expected than something is probably wrong. You could be dealing with rogue movers or scammers.

Your movers should have an office

There is an increase in scammers who pretend to have Internet only moving companies. It is not enough to check the website of the moving company. It could be top notch or too good to be true and promise you the best service. However, your moving company needs to have an office. You should go to the address you find on the website and check that the company is there. If you don’t find them there, they are probably just part-time scammers.

a scammer taking a file from a computer — The moving company should have an office

Check their trucks and storage units

If the moving company is professional and reputable they should have trucks that are in excellent condition. If the trucks are in a great condition it means that your belongings will stay safe during transport. You should check if they have affordable storage units. However, it is more important that the storage units they offer are safe and hygienic.

Following all of these tips is a good way to avoid Manhattan moving scams. Your move will be safe and everything will go more smoothly.

New movers in NY – How to check their reliability?

Posted on 01/15/2018 by BigApple

Not every negative experience has to necessarily be a scam. It could simply be unpleasant in any way – poor communication, tardiness, quality of service, etc. The prejudice is that this usually happens with new movers in NY. However, in some cases, it’s not unpleasantry but actual deception, regardless of whether you are moving to New York, or within it. You may be deceived by the price, for instance. You’d agree upon one price and during the moving day, the price would change, leaving you cornered and in despair. There are also scenarios where the movers would keep your belongings hostage until they received a better price from you. Continue reading “New movers in NY – How to check their reliability?”

The NYC Moving Checklist: Eight Weeks Out to Move-Out Day

Posted on 01/13/201809/16/2026 by BigApple

A moving checklist for New York starts earlier than the national templates say, because two gates here take days to clear: your building’s Certificate of Insurance requirements and the service-elevator reservation, both of which belong in week one of planning, not moving week. Work backward from an eight-week start — book the mover and query both buildings first, declutter and notify second, pack in order third — and end move-out day by photographing the empty apartment, because state law puts a two-week clock on your deposit.

Most moving checklists are written for a house in a suburb: a driveway, a garage, no managing agent with opinions. New York moves fail differently — not because someone forgot bubble wrap, but because the building said no elevator without paperwork, or the mover was booked because half the city’s leases end on the same day.

This checklist is rebuilt for how moving actually works here, week by week, with each phase linked to its full guide.

The timeline

Eight Weeks, One Table

When	Do this	The NYC part	Full guide
8–6 weeks out	Set the budget, get three written estimates, book the mover	Month-end dates go first — book before the lease-cycle rush	Choosing a mover
6–5 weeks out	Email BOTH buildings: COI wording, elevator rules, move windows	The two gates that stop NYC moves cold	COI guide
5–4 weeks out	Declutter, sell, donate; order boxes or bins	Junk pickup exists for exactly this week	Declutter guide
4–2 weeks out	File the address changes and utility switches	The deadline tasks with legal clocks attached	Forget-list
2–1 weeks out	Pack in order: storage spaces first, kitchen early, daily items last	The packing order with dates	Packing guide
Final week	Confirm crew and buildings, stage boxes, build the first-night bag	Preparation is billable time on an hourly move	Prep guide
Move-out day	Final walk-through, meter photos, empty-apartment photos, keys handed over	The deposit clock starts when you vacate	Forget-list

The eight-week start is the industry-standard planning window; each row’s full detail lives in the linked guide.

The two gates

The Week-One Emails That Save the Whole Move

Before a single box is packed, send two emails: one to your current building and one to the new one, asking three questions each — does the building require a Certificate of Insurance and with what wording, must the service elevator be reserved and for which hours, and are moves restricted to certain days. The answers shape every other date on this page.

The COI itself is the mover’s job, not yours — we issue them at no charge, usually the same business day, and deal with managing agents directly. Your job is only to get the requirements early enough that nobody discovers them on moving morning.

Big Apple Moving crew carrying a wrapped item through a New York City building entrance

The calendar matters too: New York leases overwhelmingly turn over at month-end, which is why the last few days of any month — and most of the summer — book out first for crews and freight elevators alike. If your dates are flexible, mid-month and mid-week are the calm water.

Moving out

The Move-Out Checklist Renters Actually Need

1Give notice per the lease

Thirty days is common, some leases want sixty — the lease wins, not the internet.

2Book the junk pickup

Everything not worth moving leaves before moving week, not on it. One pickup beats five trash-room trips.

3Close out the apartment

Patch, clean, photograph every room empty, note the meters, return every key including the mailbox.

4Start the deposit clock informed

State law puts a two-week clock on your deposit’s return once you vacate — the full detail, with the statute, is in our forgotten-tasks guide. If you’re moving with houseplants, moving plants in NYC covers pot type, the 50°F cold threshold, and what to confirm with your crew before load-in.

Questions

The Moving Checklist — Frequently Asked Questions

The timeline questions New Yorkers actually ask.

How far in advance should I plan a move in NYC?+

Eight weeks is the industry-standard planning window, and New York adds a reason to respect it: month-end dates and summer weekends book out first for both crews and freight elevators, because that is when leases turn over. Book the mover and query both buildings in week one; everything else on the checklist keys off those answers.

What should a moving checklist include for an NYC apartment?+

Everything the national lists have — budget, estimates, declutter, pack, address changes — plus the two lines they always miss: the Certificate of Insurance requirements for both buildings and the service-elevator reservations. Those two take days to clear, involve people who do not work weekends, and stop more New York moves than any packing mistake.

What is on a move-out checklist for a rental?+

Notice given per your lease, junk and donations out before moving week, the apartment patched and cleaned, photographs of every empty room with timestamps, meter readings noted, and every key returned including the mailbox key. The photographs matter most: your deposit’s return runs on a legal clock once you vacate, and pictures are the evidence.

When should I book movers relative to my move date?+

As soon as the date is fixed — and immediately if that date falls at month-end or in summer, when the lease cycle concentrates demand. Booking early costs nothing, locks the written price, and leaves time for the building paperwork; booking late means choosing from whoever is left on the busiest days of the month.

What do I do four weeks before moving?+

The paperwork with clocks attached: file the mail forwarding, book the utility switches at both addresses, and queue the license and registration update — each has its own deadline, collected in our guide to the tasks people forget. Packing the storage spaces and off-season items starts the same week.

What should be packed last when moving?+

The things tomorrow morning needs: everyday kitchen basics, toiletries, chargers, medications, a change of clothes — most of it going into a first-night bag that rides with you rather than on the truck. Beds and the coffee maker are dismantled and boxed on the final morning, not the final week.

Is there a printable version of this checklist?+

The table above is the reference version — each phase links to its full guide so you can open exactly the detail you need for that week. Bookmark this page and return to it by phase as your move date approaches; every link in the table stays current.

What is different about moving at the end of the month in NYC?+

Everything is busier: leases turn over at month-end, so crews, trucks and freight elevators are at their scarcest exactly when most people need them. If your lease allows any flexibility, a mid-month, mid-week move books easier and runs calmer. If month-end is fixed, compensate by booking everything — mover, elevator, COI — as early as the checklist allows.

Ready to make your move greener? Our eco-friendly moving guide covers the NYC rules on box recycling, furniture donations, and cutting plastic from your pack list.

Prefer the phone version? These free moving apps handle the checklist, the inventory and the sell-off.

How to spot NYC moving scams?

Posted on 11/15/201703/03/2026 by BigApple

You’re about to undergo one of the most stressful activities out there, moving, and if that wasn’t enough – now you have to worry about NYC moving scams too? Great, I know. Don’t fret for this article will point out to the most important things to look for when hiring a moving company. We will try to take at least one thing off your list of worries. Continue reading “How to spot NYC moving scams?”

How To Avoid Moving Scams

Posted on 05/19/201708/09/2026 by BigApple

Moving to a new home, whether it’s across town or across the country, can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, amidst the anticipation of a fresh start, there exists an unfortunate reality: the presence of moving scams. These deceptive practices not only jeopardize the safety of your belongings but also pose a threat to your financial well-being and peace of mind.

In today’s fast-paced world, where countless moving companies that offer moving and storage services try to get your attention, it has become increasingly crucial to equip yourself with knowledge and vigilance to steer clear of potential moving scams. Understanding the warning signs and adopting proactive measures when it comes to how to avoid moving scams can save you from the heartache of falling victim to unscrupulous operators.

5 Most Common Moving Scams

Moving company scams can turn what should be an exciting and smooth transition into a nightmare. Unfortunately, these deceitful practices continue to prey on unsuspecting individuals who are in the process of relocating. To protect yourself and your belongings, it’s essential to be aware of the most common moving broker scams and understand your moving rights and responsibilities. Here are some of the tactics employed by unscrupulous movers –

Low-Ball Estimates:

One of the most prevalent moving company scams is the “low-ball estimate.” In this scheme, a moving company will provide an enticingly low-cost estimate upfront, luring customers with the promise of saving money. However, once the contract is signed and the move is underway, these dishonest movers suddenly inflate the charges, citing hidden fees, additional services, or unforeseen difficulties. By then, you may find yourself in a difficult position, unable to back out of the deal without incurring significant costs.

Holding Belongings Hostage:

In this distressing movers scam, some movers will load your belongings onto the truck but then hold them hostage until you pay an exorbitant amount over the agreed-upon price. They may claim that there were more items than initially estimated or fabricate issues with the move as an excuse to demand additional payment. Such moving scams leave customers feeling helpless, as their possessions are essentially held hostage until the inflated fees are paid. To avoid falling victim to these moving company scams, verify the legitimacy of the moving company and read reviews from trusted sources.

Non-Binding Estimates Turned Binding:

Movers may initially offer a non-binding estimate, which gives them the flexibility to adjust the final cost based on the actual weight or volume of your belongings. However, dishonest movers may exploit this by intentionally underestimating the weight or volume during the estimate process. This is one of a common moving scam, which leaves customers with a final bill that’s significantly higher than expected. As a result, the final bill becomes significantly higher than expected, transforming the supposedly non-binding estimate into a binding one.

Fake Reviews and Credentials:

Some moving companies resort to fraudulent practices to appear reputable and trustworthy. This includes posting fake positive reviews on review websites or social media platforms. They may also claim to have licenses, certifications, or affiliations with reputable organizations when, in reality, they have no such credentials. Always verify the legitimacy of a moving company’s claims and read reviews from multiple sources to avoid being a victim of moving scams.

No Written Contracts:

Moving companies that avoid providing written contracts should be treated with suspicion. A written agreement is crucial as it outlines the terms and conditions of the move, including the cost, services, and pickup/delivery dates. Without a written contract, you have little recourse if issues arise during or after the move.

Sudden Name Changes:

Some dishonest moving companies intentionally change their names to avoid negative reviews or complaints. By operating under a different name, they can continue to engage in fraudulent practices without being easily traceable. Always research the company thoroughly and verify its history before hiring them.

Protecting yourself from movers scams requires due diligence and awareness. Take the time to research moving companies, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from friends and family. Request multiple in-home quotes or estimates and ensure that you receive written contracts from the chosen moving company. By staying vigilant, you can minimize the risks of falling victim to moving company scams and enjoy a smooth and stress-free relocation experience.

How to Avoid Moving Scams?

Moving to a new home can be a daunting task, but the last thing you want to worry about during this already stressful time is falling victim to a moving company scam. Unfortunately, moving scams are all too common, and they can lead to damaged or stolen belongings, unexpected fees, and even the disappearance of your hired movers altogether. So, how to avoid moving scams and how to know if a moving company is legitimate? Let’s find out.

Check Company Insurance

It is very important to check if the company has all of the necessary papers and that they are insured. They need to have insurance against any unfortunate mistakes that might happen. They should also ask you if you have insurance. If you don’t, they should offer to buy an insurance policy from them. If this happens, it is a sure sign that the company is reputable and that it cares about its clients. In addition, you should check if their workers are bound. A reputable moving company will have bound workers who work under a legitimate contract. You should check this as well.

Ask For a Licence

Simple as that. Every mover in the NYC area should be approved by the New York State Department of Transportation. Any mover that hasn’t received their license should not be the one you chose. To make it easier, any moving company with a solid reputation will have such a license that can be found on their website.

Ask For A Detailed Contract

A reliable moving company will make a detailed and elaborate contract. Be sure to know what you are signing. The contract should include their estimate, all of their fees and additional fees, and the exact date of the move. Check all of this before you sign anything. It should match the information they gave you beforehand. If there is no paperwork, then you can be sure that you are dealing with scammers, and you may end up falling into the trap of moving company scams.

Never Settle For Large Deposits

If the moving company is asking you to pay a large deposit, there is something wrong there. A reliable company will only ask you to leave a small deposit as a sign of trust and goodwill. If you are asking about the sum of money, it is usually between 100 and 500 dollars. If your moving company is asking for much more than this, something is fishy, and you should avoid them. Pay attention to the cost of the move. If the cost is too cheap or much cheaper than you expected, then something is probably wrong. You could be dealing with rogue movers or scammers.

Word of Mouth

Literally, the safest way for you to be safe is to ask your friends and family about a recommendation. If they have had a pleasant experience within the past 6 months or a year – you should be pretty safe yourself. There will be no surprises. Unless you’re really unlucky.

Check out the Chosen Movers Website

When you pick one, make sure to go to their webpage. Scroll through it. If it looks like it was made by a 15-year-old and has no physical address or phone number – it usually should activate red lights. We strongly recommend that you avoid that from the start. It must have a page about the company and services.

Online Reviews

In the age of the internet, ignorance is a choice. Information spreads fast, especially online. Go to online review websites and forums where people have shared their experiences (and possibly contact info of their movers). Be mindful of fake reviews. Use your common sense to spot one

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, how to avoid moving scams is a critical aspect of ensuring a successful and stress-free relocation. By arming yourself with knowledge and being vigilant throughout the process, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to unscrupulous moving companies.

A stress-free move starts with choosing a trusted partner to handle your transition. At Big Apple Moving, we prioritize transparency, professionalism, and customer satisfaction. Whether you’re planning a local or long-distance move, our team is here to provide a seamless and trustworthy experience.

Visit Big Apple Moving today to request a free quote and discover why countless customers rely on us for their moving needs. Contact us and let us help you make your next move a hassle-free success!