Beware of Fake Removalist Profiles in Wollongong, Kiama, Shellharbour, Nowra, Woonona, Bowral, Mittagong and the Southern Highlands
When you’re planning a move, whether it’s down the road or interstate, finding a reliable removalist is absolutely crucial. But sadly, in places like Wollongong, Kiama, Shellharbour, Nowra, Woonona, Bowral, Mittagong and across the Southern Highlands, fake removalist profiles on Google Maps are becoming more common — and customers are paying the price.
Dodgy operators are setting up fake business profiles, pretending to be local movers, only to scam customers out of their hard-earned money. To protect yourself, it’s important to know what to look for and what to always ask before you book.
Warning Signs of Fake Removalists
Many of these fake listings will have:
No physical office address
No ABN (Australian Business Number)
No public insurance or license details
No proper tax file registration
Very few or fake reviews
Requests for large cash payments upfront with no paperwork
Once you hand over your money, they either disappear, show up late with an unprofessional team, or damage your belongings — and good luck tracking them down after.
How to Stay Safe When Booking a Removalist
Before you commit to any removalists in Wollongong, Kiama, Shellharbour, Nowra, Woonona, Bowral, Mittagong, or the Southern Highlands, make sure you check these essentials:
✔️ ABN Verification
Ask for their ABN and look it up online using the Australian Business Register. If they don’t have one — walk away.
✔️ Booking Confirmation by Email
Always ask for a written booking confirmation by email. A text message or phone call isn’t enough. You need a formal record of what’s agreed.
✔️ Office Address
Make sure they have a genuine local address you can verify. Dodgy companies will either avoid giving an address or use fake ones.
✔️ Tax File Number
Legitimate businesses operating above board will have their tax details available if requested.
✔️ Public Liability Insurance
Ask if they have public liability and goods-in-transit insurance. This protects you if your belongings are damaged or something goes wrong during the move.
Final Thoughts
In the hustle and bustle of moving, it’s easy to trust the first Google result you see — but don’t fall into the trap! Take the time to double-check everything before handing over any deposit.
If the company is legitimate, they won’t mind providing all the necessary documents upfront.
Remember:
If something feels dodgy, it probably is.
If they can’t provide the basics like an ABN, official booking confirmation, or insurance — don’t risk it.
Always trust your gut and only deal with verified, local, and professional removalists.
Moving should be exciting, not stressful — protect yourself and your belongings!