Moving House is already one of life’s most stressful events. The last thing you need is to be duped by a moving scam. Among the most common and insidious of these scams is the “bait and switch” — a tactic used by dishonest removalist companies to lure customers in with low quotes, only to jack up the prices on moving day.
But what exactly is bait and switch in the context of the moving industry, and how can you avoid falling victim to it? Let’s explore.
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A bait and switch scam involves a moving company advertising extremely low prices to get you to commit. These “too good to be true” rates might appear in ads, online quotes, or over the phone. Once you’re locked in and your belongings are already loaded onto their truck, the company then increases the price — sometimes drastically.
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Suddenly, you might be told you need to pay for “extra weight,” “stairs,” “packing materials,” or even “fuel surcharges” that were never mentioned before. Since your items are essentially being held hostage, many customers feel forced to pay the inflated fee just to get their belongings back.
Did you know that according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, an estimated 2.5% of Australians were exposed to a scam in the 2022–2023 financial year? While not all of these scams are related to moving, complaints about rogue removalists are becoming increasingly frequent.
The rise of online quote forms and classifieds platforms has made it easier for unlicensed and uninsured movers to pose as professionals. Some don’t even operate from a legitimate business address, and when something goes wrong, they vanish without a trace.
Samantha, a Sydney resident, was quoted $400 for a small move from Parramatta to Newtown. On moving day, the company arrived in an unbranded truck with no uniforms or ID. After loading her belongings, they claimed the price was now $800 due to “unexpected time” and “heavy lifting.”
With no written contract and her furniture on the truck, she had no choice but to pay.
Avoiding this scam starts with awareness. Here are the red flags:
Here’s how you can protect yourself:
Always check the company’s credentials:
Don’t settle on the first quote you receive. Compare at least 3 reputable movers and ask them to detail what’s included and excluded in the price.
Some questions to ask:
Ensure everything is laid out in writing:
Professional movers:
If you’ve been scammed:
Document everything including emails, messages, bank transfers, and take photos if you suspect foul play.
Many people are caught off guard because they’re stressed, short on time, or trying to save money. Dishonest movers prey on urgency. Once your belongings are loaded, you’re at their mercy.
It’s not just about money. This kind of scam can ruin sentimental items, delay house settlements, or even cause legal disputes if the company disappears.
Legit removalist companies like AAA Movers, Platinum Removals, and others across Sydney follow these best practices:
Here are 12 FAQs that explain why customers trust AAA Movers:
Choosing the right movers can make all the difference, and our customers consistently praise AAA Movers for professionalism, efficiency, and care. Here’s a glimpse of their feedback:
“Johnny (Truck 23) was friendly and efficient, moving my furniture in less than half the time the last removalists did. Thanks for making a stressful move pleasant!”
“Fast, less expensive than expected, and highly recommend AAA Movers.” — Michael E.
“Professional, punctual, and courteous team who handled everything with care.” — Sandra
“Handled a tricky move with great planning and minimal fuss. Truly impressive!” — Nora
These are just a few examples of how AAA Movers turns stressful relocations into smooth, hassle-free experiences.
Bait and switch scams in the moving industry are a harsh reality, but with due diligence, you can protect yourself. Don’t fall for “too good to be true” quotes and always work with licensed, reviewed and insured professionals.
Remember: The cheapest option may end up being the most expensive mistake.
By being informed, asking the right questions, and staying alert to the red flags, your move can be smooth, secure, and scam-free.
Look for removalists with strong local presence, branded trucks, excellent customer reviews, and clear contracts. Peace of mind is worth every cent when relocating your life.
