# Choose a moving company and avoid moving scams

A shortlist process, questions to ask, and red flags to check before booking movers.

- Topic: Thinking & Decisions
- Framework: RTF
- Level: Standard
- Tags: Fill-in Template
- Source: https://www.thinkwithprompt.com/prompts/choose-a-moving-company-and-avoid-moving-scams

## Prompt

```text
Help me choose a reliable moving company.

**Move type:** [local / long-distance / interstate / international]
**From and to:** [CITIES]
**Moving date and flexibility:** [DATE, flexible?]
**Home size and special items:** [e.g. "3-bedroom house, piano, antiques"]
**Services needed:** [packing, storage, disassembly, full-service]
**Quotes I have (optional):** [PASTE QUOTES]

Give me:
1. How to build a shortlist and how to verify each mover: for interstate moves in the US, check the company's USDOT number and complaint history with the FMCSA; for local moves, check state or local licensing; plus reviews from multiple sites.
2. Questions to ask: binding vs non-binding estimate, in-home or video survey, what's included, extra charges (stairs, long carry, shuttle truck), delivery window, valuation/liability coverage options, and claims process.
3. If I pasted quotes: a comparison table (Company | Estimate type | Price | Included | Extra fees | Delivery window | Coverage | Concerns).
4. Red flags: no in-person or video survey, a quote far below others, large cash deposit, no physical address, different company name on paperwork, refusing to give a written estimate.
5. A moving-day protocol: inventory list, photos of valuables, never sign a blank or incomplete document, and how to note damage before signing delivery papers.

Don't make up company names or prices. Coverage rules vary by country and state - tell me to confirm with the official regulator.
```

## What to fill in

- local / long-distance / interstate / international
- CITIES
- DATE, flexible?
- e.g. "3-bedroom house, piano, antiques"
- packing, storage, disassembly, full-service
- PASTE QUOTES

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