Don’t Get Moo-ved the Wrong Way — Verify Your Movers

Protect your home and belongings by verifying your movers before you book.

By Blue Cow Moving & Storage | April 16, 2025

Hiring professional movers should bring peace of mind, not sleepless nights. Unfortunately, with the growing demand for moving services across Iowa and the entire U.S., dishonest and unqualified moving operations are also on the rise. From fake licenses to shady subcontractors, the risks are real — and the consequences can be devastating. You might be left dealing with broken furniture, missing boxes, or even a complete no-show on moving day. Worse yet, some rogue companies may hold your belongings hostage and demand more money to release them.

That’s why taking the time to verify your moving company is so important. It’s not just a formality — it’s a critical step in protecting your property, finances, and family from unnecessary stress. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about verifying movers, including how to confirm licensing, insurance, reputation, and service credibility.

Why Verifying a Moving Company Matters

When you hire a moving company, you’re trusting strangers with some of your most valuable possessions — furniture, family heirlooms, electronics, and personal memories. That trust should never be taken lightly. Verifying your movers reduces the risk of fraud and ensures your items are protected every step of the way.

Unverified or unlicensed movers may:

• Hold your items hostage and demand additional fees after pickup
• Operate without liability or cargo insurance — leaving you unprotected
• Hire untrained or uninsured subcontractors
• Use stolen or misleading online reviews to lure customers
• Vanish with your belongings or deposit, leaving no way to recover your loss

By asking the right questions and doing your research, you can spot these red flags early and make an informed decision.

How to Verify a Moving Company

For Interstate Moves

Planning a move across state lines? Federal regulations require interstate movers to be licensed by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Here’s how to verify credentials:

• Request the company’s USDOT number and confirm it matches their official business name
• Search for the number using the FMCSA Lookup Tool
• Check for “Authorized for HHG” status, which allows the company to transport household goods
• Review their insurance documentation — they must carry both cargo and general liability coverage
• Scan their complaint history, accident records, and performance data

For Local Moves in Iowa

Even if you're moving within Iowa, due diligence is still critical. While local movers aren’t required to register with the FMCSA, they should still operate as legitimate businesses. Here’s what to ask for:

• Proof of general liability and cargo insurance, including policy details
• A registered business license with the Iowa Secretary of State
• A real business address — not a vague P.O. box or home address listed online

Insurance Coverage Movers Should Provide

Accidents happen, even during well-planned moves. That’s why reputable moving companies must carry specific insurance policies. Ask for documentation before moving day so you know exactly what’s covered.

• General Liability Insurance: Covers damage to your home or property caused by the moving team
• Cargo Insurance: Covers loss or damage to your personal belongings during transit or storage
• Workers’ Compensation: Covers employee injuries so you aren’t held responsible if someone gets hurt on your property

Need to provide proof to your building manager or HOA? A Certificate of Insurance (COI) can usually be issued upon request — and it should include your name and address as the “certificate holder.”

Red Flags to Watch For

Here are the top warning signs you may be dealing with an untrustworthy or fraudulent mover:

• No business address or phone number listed on their website
• Reluctance to provide a written estimate or pricing breakdown
• Demanding large deposits in cash or requesting payment via apps like Venmo
• Unprofessional communication or pushy sales tactics
• Overly generic names like “Discount Movers” or “Budget Haulers” with no clear brand or reputation

Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it probably is. A legitimate mover will never hesitate to provide documentation, answer questions, or give you a written agreement with terms.

How Blue Cow Moving & Storage Builds Trust

We’ve helped hundreds of Iowa homeowners and renters move safely, efficiently, and without stress. At Blue Cow Moving & Storage, transparency and trust are at the core of everything we do. Here’s what you can expect:

• Active business registration and full insurance documentation
• Clear, honest, and upfront pricing — no surprise fees
• Background-checked local movers trained in safety and customer service
• Reliable reviews and ratings across Des Moines and Central Iowa
• Open communication before, during, and after your move

We welcome questions and are happy to walk you through every step of your move before you book. Your trust is our priority — and we’re proud to earn it move after move.

Moving Company Verification Checklist