The internet has made finding a moving company easier than ever. A quick search will yield countless options promising fast quotes, low prices, and effortless relocation. However, hidden among legitimate movers are internet brokers—middlemen who sell your move to the highest bidder instead of handling it themselves. While their offers may seem convenient, hiring an internet broker can lead to unexpected costs, delays, and even lost or damaged belongings.
At Allied Van Lines, we’ve seen too many customers fall victim to internet brokers, only to turn to us when things go wrong. Here’s why you should be cautious when choosing your mover.
What Is an Internet Moving Broker?
An internet broker is not a moving company. Instead, they act as a go-between, collecting your details and selling your move to a third-party carrier. Brokers don’t own trucks, employ movers, or have control over who ultimately handles your move. This hands-off approach often leads to major issues.
The Risks of Hiring an Internet Broker
1. No Accountability
Once a broker sells your move to an unknown carrier, they step out of the process. If something goes wrong—your move is delayed, your belongings are damaged, or hidden fees pile up, the broker won’t help. You’re left dealing with an unfamiliar company you never researched or agreed to hire.
2. Bait-and-Switch Pricing
Brokers lure customers with low initial estimates, often without conducting an in-home or virtual survey. Once your move is assigned to a carrier, the actual cost can skyrocket due to undisclosed fees, weight adjustments, or additional service charges. By the time moving day arrives, you may be forced to pay far more than expected—or risk having your move canceled.
3. No Background Checks on Movers
Reputable moving companies vet their employees, train them thoroughly, and ensure they meet industry standards. Internet brokers, on the other hand, simply pass your job to whichever company will take it—sometimes without checking their credentials, insurance, or reputation. This puts your belongings at risk.
4. Limited or No Insurance Protection
Since brokers don’t physically handle moves, they don’t provide liability coverage. If something happens to your belongings, you may have little to no recourse for filing claims or receiving compensation. In contrast, licensed moving companies offer valuation protection to safeguard your items.
How to Avoid Internet Brokers
Protect yourself by doing the following when choosing a moving company:
Verify Credentials – A legitimate moving company will have a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You can check the mover’s credentials at FMCSA’s website.
Look for Physical Locations – Brokers often operate with just a website and call center. Reputable movers have real offices, trucks, and trained crews.
Check Reviews and Complaints – Read reviews on Google, BBB, and other trusted sources. Avoid companies with multiple complaints about pricing scams, lost items, or poor service.
Ask If They Are a Broker – Federal law requires brokers to disclose that they are not actual movers. If a company won’t answer directly or tries to hide this, walk away.
Choose a Trusted Name in Moving – Work with established companies like Allied Van Lines, which has over 95 years of experience and a proven reputation for reliability.
Move with Confidence
When it comes to relocating, peace of mind is priceless. Avoid internet brokers and choose a moving company that stands behind its service. Allied Van Lines offers transparent pricing, professional movers, and dedicated support from start to finish—so you can move with confidence.
Contact Allied Van Lines today to learn how we can help you make your next move a great experience.
