Moving from one state to another can be stressful, and the final thing you do not want to happen is falling for a moving scam. I assume that one can protect themselves from the most common scams by being aware and vigilant. This article will take you through steps that will be of help in protecting you from these scams and allow the individual to make great decisions while picking an interstate moving company.
Understanding Common Moving Scams
- Bait-and-Switch Estimates: Where you have a mover who estimates a low, apparently reasonable cost, then adds on all types of unexpected charges to bring the price way up.
- Rogue Movers: Movers who are unregistered or not licensed might take off with your deposit and never be seen, or worse, hold hostage your stuff until you pay some kind of exorbitant fee.
- Volume Underestimation: Deliberate underestimation of the volume of your goods by movers so that they can offer a low quote to you and then demand more money after everything has been loaded into a truck.
- Deposits and Prepayments: Be wary of those requiring large deposits or the entire fee upfront. A legitimate moving company usually requires a small deposit, with the balance due upon delivery.
- Missing or Damaged Items: Others may steal or damage your goods and refuse to take responsibility—in many cases, because they have little or no insurance coverage in place for your goods.
- Fly-by-Night Operations: Those overnight companies with ridiculously low-ball rates move your goods, then disappear and are difficult or impossible to hold liable for what went wrong.
Steps to Avoid Moving Scams
1. Research Moving Companies Thoroughly
- Check Credentials: Check if they are properly licensed and registered. Moving companies interstate must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, FMCSA, and have a USDOT number.
- Read Reviews: Check multiple sources of reviews: Google, Yelp, Better Business Bureau, etc. See if the complaints repeat over and over again.
- Verify Physical Address: The company should have a valid physical address, not just a P.O. Box. If possible, the office should be visited to confirm its existence.
2. Get Multiple Estimates
- In-Home Estimates
In-home estimates should be insisted upon; phone or online quotes are not as credible. A reputable company will send someone to view the cubic feet your goods take up and their weight.
- Detailed Estimates
Get detailed written estimates that include all possible charges. Beware of companies with general, simplistic quotes.
- Compare Quotes
Compare at least three movers for quotes. Be wary of significantly low estimates, as they could indicate a scam.
3. Ask the Right Questions
- Experience and Credentials
Ask how long the company has been in business, their experience with interstate moves, and their licensing information.
- Insurance Coverage
Ask about what insurance will cover your goods; ask to see a copy of the policy.
- Subcontractors
Ask if they do the move themselves from start to finish or subcontract some of their work out. Subcontracting can make accountability confusing, so it is easier for scam artists to move in.
4. Understand the Contract
- Read Thoroughly
Read the entire contract, including the fine print. Make sure all verbal agreements are present in writing.
- Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates
Know the difference between a binding and a non-binding estimate. The binding estimate guarantees total cost, while the non-binding estimate can change based on actual weight and services.
- Cancellation Policy
Be aware of the cancellation policy of the company and its fee.
5. Be Cautious with Payments
- Reasonable Deposits
Most professional movers require a very small deposit of perhaps 10% to 20% upfront, then the remaining balance upon delivery. Any business demanding more than this as an upfront deposit or wanting all the money upfront before the work has even started is a scam.
- Payment Methods
Pay by traceable method: credit cards—not cash. Paying by credit card provides more protection and allows you to dispute charges in case of fraud.
6. Monitor the Moving Process
- Inventory List
Insist on a detailed inventory list of your goods from the movers. Check off the items against this list at both loading and unloading.
- Labeling
Another strategy for minimizing losses is to clearly label all boxes and keep a record of those high-dollar or fragile items. You may wish to consider transporting very important or irreplaceable things in your vehicle.
- Communication
Keep up a constant flow of communication with the moving company throughout the move. Confirm dates of pickup and delivery, and log every contact.
7. Report Suspicious Activity
- File Complaints
Report suspected moving frauds to agencies such as FMCSA, the BBB, and your state's consumer protection agency.
- Leave Reviews
You can also share your experience online as a warning to others who could be looking for the same services. In-depth reviews may come in very handy for future customers.
- Legal Action
In case you have fallen victim, you can file a lawsuit. You can seek the advice of an attorney who would be able to guide you on the way forward, depending on your case and the law that applies to it.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
No In-Home Estimates
A company that does not offer in-home estimates might not be genuine.
- Unprofessional Communication
Inability to communicate, unprofessional behavior, or challenges in trying to get through the company might be a red flag.
- No Licensing Informatio
A legitimate moving company should give the client their licensing and insurance details.
- Cash-Only Payments
Requesting to receive payment in cash-only form or huge deposits should be a red flag.
- Unmarked Vehicles
The creation of a well-branded truck and crew is basic for professional moving companies. If the truck is unmarked, a rogue mover may be indicated.
- Pressure Tactics
Pressure to sign a contract, hard-sell tactics—these are all signal words for a scam.
Conclusion
Moving interstate involves significant planning and trust in the moving company you choose. By staying informed and vigilant, you can avoid common scams and ensure a smooth transition to your new home. Research thoroughly, get multiple detailed estimates, ask the right questions, and understand your contract to protect yourself from fraudulent activities. Monitoring the moving process and reporting any suspicious activity further safeguards your move. With careful planning and awareness, you can navigate the interstate moving industry confidently and avoid falling victim to scams.