Choose The Right International Relocation Partner
How to Choose the Right International Relocation Partner Originally published on LinkedIn by Pikkol...
3 months ago
Avoid Relocation Scams: Move Smart with Trusted Packers & Movers
Moving abroad is a life-changing journey—but it can quickly turn into a nightmare if you fall victim to moving scams. In India, with the increasing demand for international relocation, there’s also been a worrying rise in fraudulent practices by shady movers.
From hidden costs to hostage-style extortion, these scams can drain your money, waste your time, and leave your valuable belongings stranded. In this blog, we’ll explore five of the most common international moving scams in India and give you practical tips on how to avoid them. We’ll also cover why choosing reliable packers and movers is absolutely crucial, and how to identify them before it’s too late.
1. The Low Price Quotation Trap
One of the most common scams in the moving industry is the "bait-and-switch." It starts with an unbelievably low estimate that looks too good to pass up. But once your goods are packed and loaded, the price suddenly increases. Extra charges like taxes, fuel surcharges, insurance premiums, increased weight calculation or handling fees appear out of nowhere.
How to Avoid It:
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Always ask for a written, itemized quote that includes all possible charges.
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Avoid companies that give quotes only over the phone or on WhatsApp without any documentation.
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Choose movers that offer binding estimates based on a physical or virtual survey.
2. Payment Scams
Some moving companies insist on paying large deposits and some offer additional discounts on cash payments. Once the payment is made, they either vanish or deliver extremely poor service.
How to Avoid It:
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Pay through secure, traceable methods—avoid cash or unverified UPI accounts.
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Always request an invoice or receipt, even if a discount is offered.
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Watch out for unusual email links, suspicious attachments, or fake QR codes
– Some scammers send fake payment links or invalid QR codes
3. Rental & Housing Scams Linked to Moving Services
Some moving services in India take their deception one step further—by offering help with rental accommodation or housing in your destination country, especially in popular cities across the USA, Canada, and the UK.
They might promise:
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Pre-booked apartments at attractive rates
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Assistance with long-term leases or "guaranteed" approvals
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Tying accommodation into the moving package to seem like a deal
How to Avoid It:
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Use verified real estate or relocation agents for housing—not your movers unless they're officially licensed to provide both
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Double-check the property through virtual tours or online platforms before sending money
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Ask for references from other customers who've used the same housing service
4. Fake Branding and Duplicate Companies
Many fraudsters operate under names that mimic well-known moving companies. They use similar logos, website templates, and advertising to trick unsuspecting customers. Once hired, their service quality plummets or they disappear entirely.
How to Avoid It:
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Check if the company is registered, has a GST number, and a verified office address.
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Visit their office physically or request a video tour to confirm legitimacy.
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Check for subtle differences in company names, URLs, or emails. Don’t fall for the look-alike trap.
5. Deliberate Delivery Delays & Hostage Goods
In this scam, movers intentionally delay delivery and use it as leverage to demand more money. They may claim additional charges are due or that customs issues are holding up your shipment—even when everything is cleared.
How to Avoid It:
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Sign a clear contract with committed timelines and delivery schedules.
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Choose a mover that offers real-time tracking and regular updates.
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Avoid movers who seem evasive or unresponsive once your shipment is on the move.
6. Poor Packing & Fake Insurance Promises
Some movers cut corners on packing materials to save costs. Others falsely promise insurance but don’t actually provide it. The result? Damaged, missing, or stolen goods—and no way to recover the loss.
They say, "Your goods are fully insured!"—but when something breaks, they deny claims or say "That damage isn’t covered."
How to Avoid It:
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Ask for actual insurance documentation—not just a line in the invoice.
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Verify their insurance policy—ask for the insurer’s name & contact.
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Take photos/videos of all items before packing.
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Choose movers who use high-quality packing materials and offer proof through videos or photographs.
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Don’t hesitate to ask how they handle fragile or high-value items.
The Importance of Choosing Reliable Packers and Movers
A trustworthy moving company doesn’t just move your stuff—they move your peace of mind. When relocating internationally, the risks are higher: customs documentation, transit timelines, overseas coordination, and shipment security all come into play.
Hiring a reliable mover means:
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Transparent pricing with no surprises
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Safe handling and professional packing
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Valid insurance coverage
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Timely pickup and delivery
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Proper paperwork and legal compliance
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Real-time tracking and customer support
When you cut corners by choosing a cheaper, unknown company—you risk losing more than just money.
How to Find a Reliable International Moving Company
Use these tips to separate the professionals from the pretenders:
Whether you need:
✔ International House shifting service (for families, students etc)
✔ International Corporate moving service (for businesses)
✔ international Office shifting service (for seamless transitions)
✔ international small parcel service (for students, families, retailers, B2B businesses)
Follow these golden rules:
1. Check Registration & Licenses
Always verify if the mover is registered with proper authorities. Ask for their GST details, company registration number, and check for FIDI licenses and accreditations.
2. Read Verified Reviews
Look beyond the testimonials on their website. Search for independent customer reviews on Google, forums, or local groups. Multiple negative experiences are a red flag.
3. Visit Their Office (or Request a Video Tour)
A real company will have a proper office, warehouse, and customer support team. Virtual-only movers or brokers are often middlemen who pass your job to unknown vendors.
4. Ask About Their International Network
Reliable movers will have partnerships or direct operations in multiple countries. Ask how they handle customs, port handling, and final delivery at your destination.
5. Get Everything in Writing
Insist on a contract that covers services, timelines, charges, cancellation terms, and insurance. Don’t move forward with anything agreed upon “verbally.”
6. Use a Tech-Enabled Service
Modern platforms like Pikkol offer instant quotes, real-time tracking, and verified relocation experts—all under one roof. With Pikkol, you eliminate guesswork, avoid middlemen, and get full visibility of your move.
Final Thoughts
International relocation is stressful enough—don’t let scammers make it worse. Stay alert, research thoroughly, and don’t fall for cheap tricks that cost you dearly later.
By choosing a reliable, transparent, and tech-enabled moving partner, you protect your belongings, your budget, and your peace of mind.
Real Stories, Real Solutions from Pikkol
Relocating across cities or countries should be an exciting new beginning—but for many, it’s turning into a nightmare. Across India, several fake packers and movers have been reported for cheating customers, stealing belongings, or disappearing after pickup.
Recent news reports (Business World, Indian Express, Livemint, The Hindu, TOI, etc.) show how online search ads and fraudulent listings are being used to trap unsuspecting customers. From vanished cars to lost furniture, these scams highlight one painful truth—trust matters more than ever in the relocation industry.
Every month, hundreds of families and NRIs fall victim to fake packers and movers across India — losing valuables, vehicles, and even peace of mind.
Recent reports highlight a disturbing trend:
These stories remind us that trust, transparency, and traceability are not optional — they’re essential
Ready for a SAFE, STRESS-FREE Move? Choose Pikkol!
Why risk your precious belongings with shady movers? Pikkol is India’s most trusted:
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International House Relocation Service
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International Corporate Moving Service
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International Office Shifting Service
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International Small Parcel Delivery Service
We guarantee:
Transparent pricing (no hidden fees!)
Regular tracking updates(know where your goods are 24/7)
Professional and quality packing (military-grade protection)
💬 Call Pikkol NOW for a FREE quote!
👉 Don’t gamble with your move—choose the experts who deliver!
– India’s trusted name for safe, professional, and reliable moving services.
FAQ:
1. What are the most common international moving service scams in India?
Common scams include bait-and-switch pricing, fake packers and movers, full advance payment fraud, delivery delays, and fake insurance claims.
2. How do I verify if a moving company is legitimate?
Check for a valid GST number, company registration, physical office address, and authentic customer reviews. Always request a written quote and contract.
3. What should a moving service contract include?
It should mention services, timelines, pickup & delivery details, cost breakdown, insurance coverage, and cancellation terms. Read it carefully before signing.
4. Can I track my shipment while moving abroad from India?
Yes. Reliable moving companies like Pikkol offer live tracking and regular updates. Always ask about tracking features before you book.
5. What is the safest way to pay packers and movers in India?
Use UPI, bank transfer, or secure online payments. Avoid paying in cash or to personal accounts.
6. How to identify fake packers and movers?
Fake movers often operate under copycat brand names, offer unusually low prices. They may lack a physical office, use personal phone numbers, and avoid written contracts. Always verify their GST registration, company credentials, customer reviews, and office address before booking.
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