Mover verification

How to Verify a Moving Company Before You Book

Before you book or pay a deposit, make sure the company name, USDOT or MC number, estimate, inventory and payment terms all line up. A moving company can look professional online, but the written details are what you need to compare.

Match the Name

Compare the website, estimate, email signature, payment instructions and public records. The names should be clear enough to research.

Check USDOT or MC Number

Use available federal records to review public registration information. Do not rely on a logo or sales page alone.

Review the Estimate

Look at inventory, cubic feet or weight, deposit amount, pickup language, delivery language and possible extra charges.

Step 1: Confirm the exact company identity

Write down the company name exactly as it appears on the estimate. Also save the website URL, email address, phone number, USDOT number, MC number and payment recipient if shown.

Step 2: Search available federal records

Use public USDOT/FMCSA tools to compare entity information. If the available record appears to show broker activity, carrier activity or unclear authority, ask the company to explain it in writing.

Step 3: Compare the records to the estimate

The estimate should make it clear who is providing the quote, what inventory it is based on, how the shipment size was calculated and what charges are included.

Step 4: Ask before paying

Before sending money, ask any unclear questions about the company identity, deposit, cancellation language, pickup window, delivery expectations and extra charges.

Use MoveInformed to Check the Company

Enter a company name, USDOT number or MC number to review available public mover information, then compare that with the estimate you received.

Common Questions

What if the mover's name online is different from the estimate?

Ask the company to explain the difference in writing. Also compare the company name, DBA, USDOT or MC number and payment recipient before booking.

Does a USDOT number guarantee the mover is safe?

No. A USDOT number is one research point. Consumers should also review company identity, written terms, inventory, services, charges and reviews before making a decision.

Where can I research public moving-company records?

Public resources include FMCSA SAFER, FMCSA Licensing and Insurance, and the FMCSA household goods mover search. MoveInformed helps organize what appears in available public data.