How to not get ripped off by movers?

[SteveO]

That pods thing sounds like a good, realistic solution. Otherwise, I'd go with the heavy reference thing. Make sure you get THE SAME TWO OR THREE guys who had the good reference, ask for them by name and let them know that you tip well based on a good move (and then do that). If they are professionals (and likely they are if they rec'd good reference), they will act accordingly.

There ARE good, honest vendors out there.