Moving Company Scams To Know

top 5 moving company scams

You may have been encouraged to explore moving companies if you’re planning to move out of or into a new property. While researching movers may appear to be an inconvenient or time-consuming task, there are some who engage in unethical acts. Keep an eye out for these common moving company scams to know. And always ask questions if anything doesn’t seem right.

ESTIMATING USING A LOW-BALL APPROACH

Be cautious if you contact a moving company and they offer you a quote without first viewing your home. Most people have more belongings than they realize. Moving companies take into account their weight and space requirements. If the moving company does not evaluate your belongings, you will not receive an accurate pricing estimate.

Also, be wary of moving companies that merely take a cursory look at your stuff. A good company should be asking detailed questions about what you want to take and what you’ll leave behind. You’re more than likely to obtain a low quote that doesn’t truly reflect your situation. On moving day, you can find yourself in a predicament if the bill skyrockets. Worse, the corporation may hold your stuff hostage until the shortfall is paid.

REQUESTING A LARGE DEPOSIT

Moving companies that are reputable will rarely ask for a big deposit up front for their services. The majority of reputable companies need payment after your move is completed. It’s not uncommon for individuals that take huge deposits to fail to show up on moving day or to take significantly longer to transport your belongings to their final destination.

MULTIPLE OR DIFFERENT COMPANY NAMES

If a firm receives repeated complaints to the Better Business Bureau, Google, Yelp, and other organizations, it is common for them to change their company name to avoid them. When you’re looking for movers, make sure they answer the phone with the company’s entire name. If they don’t, be sure to inquire about who you’re contacting. 

Always request and follow up on local references. Identify all of the company’s business names and license numbers, as well as whether or not they are legally insured. It will be critical to get insurance. Accidents happen, and you don’t want to be on your own if something gets broken during the relocation. If a company looks to be operating under several names, look up each one online to see if there are any complaints or negative reviews.

FEES THAT ARE NOT DISCLOSED

Some moving companies may raise the final amount by putting on hidden charges. After the relocation is completed, make sure to get an itemized statement and look for charges that weren’t discussed previously. Living in a two-story house, living on a narrow street that won’t fit the truck, or having to park the vehicle more than a set distance from the front door are all examples of hidden fees.

CONTRACTS THAT ARE NOT COMPLETE

If a moving company invites you to sign a blank or half filled contract that they will fill up later, decline and look for a different provider. You want all of the specifics upfront, including the delivery date, price, and the conditions under which additional expenses may be applied.

While researching and hiring a moving company may seem daunting, doing so will guarantee that your move goes as smoothly and swiftly as possible. The extra time and effort it takes to discover the best and most respected firm for your budget will be well worth it.

Summary: Moving Company Scams To Know

You may have been encouraged to explore moving firms if you’re planning to move out of or into a new property. While researching movers may appear to be an inconvenient or time-consuming task, there are some who engage in unethical acts. Keep an eye out for the common moving scams discussed, and always ask questions if anything doesn’t seem right.

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