How to protect your privacy when you move, without getting ripped off

The first rule is never to use Allied, Bekins, Mayflower, or any other licensed mover. The reason for this is that even though you give the movers a false name, their computers can be searched by address as well. Thus, anyone who knows where you used to live will—with a bit of social engineering or the help of a PI—be able to get your new address.

Some have tried using an unlicensed agency but too many of these will give you a fake estimate, then hold your belongings hostage until you pay a much higher fee. Linda Bauer, president of the American Moving and Storage Association, is quoted on page one of today’s USA TODAY (“Cracking down on moving scams”), “The rogues in this industry are killing our business and killing consumers’ faith in professional movers.”

The solution to the problem is outlined on page 80 of How To Be Invisible. Pay a driver (perhaps a close friend or relative) to rent a truck in his or her name. Then look for “Student Movers” in the Yellow Pages. Use them to load the truck, send your driver off with the load, and get another set of student movers at the new location.

In addition to maintaining your privacy, you will also save money!