One of the biggest problems associated with the moving industry these days is the fact that there are so many moving scams running rampant throughout it that it's difficult to catch them. The moving industry itself has very few safeguards in place to keep things like this happening, which leaves the burden on the consumers who are hiring the companies. Now, different companies operate different scams, which makes it even more difficult to deal with. Thankfully, though, a team of experts has come together to create a simple list. This list can help you avoid a moving scam - especially a major one - by giving you a good set of examples of what to avoid when you're shopping for the right movers.
1. Low Moving Quotes - One of the most prevalent red flags that you should catch when you are looking into hiring a moving company is a moving quote that is far lower than any of the others you get from comparable moving companies. This is why getting multiple moving quotes is such a good idea. When you have five or six quotes to look at, you can easily see the differences and the norms. Stay away from companies that offer prices that simply seem too good to be true.
2. Deposit Demands - Good moving companies will offer their services based on a contract that you sign and you will never have to pay a deposit. In fact, payment up to 110% of an estimate is all that is really due on the day that your goods are delivered to their final destination, with anything over that due within sixty days. When a company demands that you pay a deposit up front, they may not be a forthright company. Instead of caving to their demands, look deeper into the company or simply stay away from them entirely. This will save you from becoming another victim of a moving scam.
3. Rushed or Booked Scheduling - Don't let the moving companies you work with hassle you into scheduling your move when it is good for them. Certainly most movers will require that you schedule their services, but they should offer you a choice of days and times that is good for you rather than pressuring you into something that is not realistic for your situation. Be aware that some companies might try anyways, so have a backup company in mind just in case you run into such a problem as you're scheduling your move.
4. Bad Reviews - It's a good idea to always check online and with the Better Business Bureau to get information on a company you are thinking of hiring. There are plenty of companies out there who would love your business, so don't give your money to a company that is known to be rude to their customers or a company that has lots of bad reviews on how they treat the things that they transport. The last thing you need at this point in your life is to arrive at your new home with damaged goods or worse. Check to see what other people are saying about a company before you allow them to take your things.
5. Unmarked Equipment - Sure, you may not know about this one until they show up at your home to load your things into the moving truck, but it is absolutely vital that you avoid using any company who arrives at your home with a truck that has no markings. This is a huge red flag that could mean a much bigger scam than you expected and if you allow them to load your things and take them, you risk never seeing the goods again. While it might be problematic to cancel your move on moving day itself, having to go through the process of last minute moving and finding a mover with an availability on a moment's notice, it is much better than having to contact the police because your 'movers' never showed up to your new home.
About the Author: Finding the best state to state moving companies is one thing that Janna Taylor knows takes time. With over twenty years of experience in the moving and relocation industry, she can help you find the best movers for all of your relocation needs. Visit her blog today for more information.
