If you have ever moved houses in Melbourne, you know it can be stressful from start to finish.
Between packing up, cleaning, and making sure nothing gets left behind, there’s already a lot to manage.
Sadly, what catches some people by surprise is that not every mover is genuine.
There are stories of companies who promise one thing, collect your furniture, and then vanish or demand extra money to deliver your belongings.
These scams are not rare, and they can happen to anyone who’s in a hurry or simply trusts the wrong person.
Knowing what to look for can save you time, money, and plenty of heartache.
The Most Common Moving Scams in Melbourne
The first red flag is often a cheap quote.
A low price might sound tempting when you are already juggling expenses, but it’s one of the oldest tricks in the book.
Some movers start with a low quote and then change their price once your furniture is loaded.
They might say the weight or space was more than expected and demand extra payment before delivery.
Others ask for a large deposit in advance, sometimes in cash.
Once the payment is made, communication stops. In other cases, fake movers pretend to be well-known companies by copying their names or creating websites full of fake five-star reviews.
There are also stories of hidden fees that appear after the move.
You might be told there’s an additional charge for stairs, heavy furniture, or travel distance, even if none of this was mentioned earlier.
How to Spot a Dodgy Mover Early
It’s not always easy to tell who’s genuine and who’s not, but a few warning signs can help.
Be cautious if:
- The price is much lower than other quotes you received.
- The mover only provides a mobile number or no physical address.
- They refuse to give a written quote or contract.
- You are asked to pay a large deposit before the move.
- There’s no mention of insurance or accreditation.
- Online reviews sound too polished or repetitive.
- They don’t visit your place before quoting.
- They avoid questions about how they handle delays or damages.
A professional mover takes time to explain things clearly. They’ll provide proper documents, have insurance, and be transparent about their process.
Do a Background Check Before You Book
Spend a bit of time checking their background. It makes a real difference.
Start with the Australian Furniture Removers Association (AFRA) website to see if they are registered members.
This shows they meet national standards for training, insurance, and professionalism. You can also check their ABN or ACN using the Australian Business Register to confirm the business actually exists.
Go beyond their website reviews. Look at feedback on Google Maps, ProductReview, and local community pages. Ask for photos or references from past customers. If they avoid giving them, that’s a warning sign.
Handling Payments and Contracts the Right Way
When it comes to money, always keep things traceable. Avoid any company that only takes cash. Use a bank transfer or credit card instead.
Do not pay the full amount before delivery.
A small booking deposit is fine, but the rest should be paid once everything has arrived safely. Make sure you have a written contract that clearly lists all items, the total cost, and any conditions for extra charges.
Add a clause that says no extra fees can be added without your written approval. Keep copies of every message, receipt, and photo until your move is finished.
If You Think You’ve Been Scammed
If something feels wrong, act quickly. Save every bit of communication, screenshot your payments, and write down what was agreed. Contact your bank or card provider to report the issue. Then reach out to Consumer Affairs Victoria, the ACCC, or Scamwatch.
If you’ve lost a large amount of money, the VCAT small claims process can help you take legal action. Leaving a truthful review online also helps other people avoid the same mistake.
Stories from Melbourne Locals
Local forums often share cautionary tales. One resident mentioned paying half the fee upfront only to find the mover refused to unload without another payment. Another person said their cheaper mover delayed delivery for a week and damaged their sofa.
A common lesson is that paying a little more for a reliable company often saves you stress in the long run.
Before You Move: Use a Checklist
Preparation makes everything smoother. A good way to stay organised is by using a house moving checklist. It helps you track packing, utilities, and important steps before moving day.
Conclusion
Scammers rely on people being rushed or distracted.
Take your time, ask questions, and confirm everything in writing.
If something feels wrong, it’s better to walk away than risk losing your belongings.
A genuine mover won’t pressure you; they’ll respect your caution and help you feel confident about your move.
