Florida mover warns consumers about moving quote spam

A Fort Lauderdale licensed moving carrier says many online “instant quote” forms are lead generators that sell consumer data to multiple movers. The company is urging shoppers to verify carriers directly before sharing personal information, especially during the busy summer moving season.

Why it matters: - Summer is the busiest moving season, which makes consumers more likely to rush into online quote forms. - One submission can trigger repeated calls, texts, and emails from multiple companies. - Consumers may share their name, phone number, and move details with businesses they never meant to contact. - The result can be spam, pressure tactics, and wider exposure of personal information.

What happened: - Direct Relocation Services, a licensed direct interstate moving carrier based in Fort Lauderdale, warned consumers about websites that sell moving leads. - Justin Perez, co-founder of Direct Relocation Services, said many shoppers do not realize one form can send their information to several companies. - The company said consumers should go directly to a mover instead of using third-party “compare quotes” sites.

The details: - Lead-generation sites often look like moving companies, but many do not move customers. - These sites collect quote-form information and resell it as a lead to multiple carriers and brokers. - A single submission can be sold to several companies at once. - Direct Relocation Services advised consumers to contact a mover’s own website or call directly. - The company said shoppers should confirm they are dealing with a real carrier that has its own U.S. Department of Transportation number and uses its own crews and trucks. - Consumers can verify an interstate mover’s USDOT number for free through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s SAFER System at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov. - The SAFER System does not require an account and shows operating status, safety rating, and insurance on file. - Consumers should be cautious if a website asks for a phone number and move details before showing company information. - A sudden spike in calls after submitting one form is a sign the information may have been sold. - Direct Relocation Services said legitimate direct carriers do not need to buy consumer information from third parties. - The company originates moves from Florida and Georgia and delivers to all 48 contiguous states. - Direct Relocation Services said consumers can request a quote by calling 855.378.3110 or visiting directrelocationservices.com. - The company said information stays with Direct Relocation Services when consumers contact it directly. - Direct Relocation Services is headquartered in Fort Lauderdale and said it is fully licensed, bonded, and insured under USDOT #3000931, MC #24036, and FL IM2964.

Between the lines: - The message is as much about data privacy as it is about moving logistics. - Lead-selling sites benefit from volume, while consumers absorb the nuisance and uncertainty. - Direct carriers are trying to position direct contact as a trust signal in a crowded, high-pressure market.

What's next: - Consumers shopping for moves this summer are likely to see more online quote ads and comparison forms. - Checking a carrier’s licensing and contacting the company directly can reduce spam before it starts. - Shoppers who want a direct quote can use the company’s website or phone line instead of a third-party form.

The bottom line: - If a moving quote form asks for your personal details before naming the carrier, your information may be the product.