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Vetting an Overseas Mover: A 5-Step Background Check

A simple step-by-step check of an overseas moving company before you sign or pay a deposit.

Step 1: Confirm the license

Companies that arrange ocean shipments from the U.S. are typically licensed by the Federal Maritime Commission as Ocean Transportation Intermediaries. Search the company's name on the FMC's OTI list.

Step 2: Read the worst reviews first

Sort Google, Trustpilot and Yelp reviews by lowest rating and read the most recent ones. Look for repeated themes such as surprise fees or shipments held at the destination.

Step 3: Check the BBB

Look at the BBB rating, the complaint history and whether the company answered complaints.

Step 4: Get it in writing

Ask for an itemized estimate and contract that lists destination charges, the estimate type and the deposit terms.

Step 5: Protect your payment

Avoid paying large amounts before you have a written estimate, and pay by card where possible.

Compare companies side by side. See public Google, Trustpilot, BBB and Yelp ratings, recent 1-star reviews and written terms on our comparison page.

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Last updated October 2026. General consumer information, not legal or financial advice.