Hiring a moving company is a serious process. It is essential to have trust in your moving company, while being cautious of possible moving scams. Some moving companies are more concerned with their interests than yours. Take your time to book estimates and schedule movers because a moving scam can creep up on you without you realizing it. Don’t be a victim; know the signs and hire a quality moving company. Here are some tips on how to avoid a moving scam.
Beware of lowball price quotes.
If the price sounds too good to be true, it just might be. In a moving scam, movers can tack on various surcharges that end up costing you more than you’d think. Make sure it is absolutely clear about which fees cover what services. Find out how much insurance or liability the moving company has to cover damages in case of an accident. Insist to see a contract upfront.
Be cautious of instant quotes.
It may be easy to receive an instant quote for your move online or over the phone. However, it’s always best to get an in-home or video chat estimate with an estimator. When getting an estimate for moving services, the estimator should ask you many questions. If not, it’s time to turn and run from a possible moving scam.
Get the right estimate.
If a moving company offers you a price based on cubic footage, this could be a moving scam. A quote is given by weight, not by cubic feet. Movers are supposed to provide proof of the weight of your belongings at no cost to you. And as of 2005, interstate moves based on cubic feet are illegal.
Be suspicious of moving companies asking for large deposits.
It’s possible that they’ll take your money and run. Make sure to work out an appropriate payment schedule, especially for complicated moves.
The moving company’s website should list their physical street address.
Make sure, especially on your moving day, that the moving company’s physical street address listed on their paperwork, licenses, and their website, all match up.
A moving scam doesn’t necessarily end on moving day.
Most moving scams involve low ball estimates that are hiked up after all of your belongings are loaded on the truck. This can occur after the moving company has possession of your belongings. Talk about scary: If you don’t pay the ridiculously high amount, the company may get rid of your stuff.
Do your research before booking a moving company.
How do the moving companies you’re considering hold up to these questions:
- Are they properly licensed?
- Do they have good social media reviews, video testimonials, letters of recommendation, etc.?
- How long have they been in business?
- Have they won any awards?
- Are their employees in professional uniforms?
- Do they own or lease their moving trucks?
- Do they have a high rating on the Better Business Bureau?
Quality movers over moving scams.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration offers free resources and tools to help prepare for your move. To protect yourself from moving scams, check out ProtectYourMove.gov. You can also file a Moving Fraud Complaint. In the end, if you do your research before booking a moving company, you are likely to choose a quality mover.