For consumers planning and interstate or local move, it’s important to make sure that steps are taken to not fall victim of a moving company scam. This can lead to serious financial losses and a stressful experience.
For consumers looking to move, it's important to make sure that steps are taken to not fall victim of a moving company scam. This can lead to serious financial losses and a stressful experience. Read on to learn what to look out for and how to protect yourself.
Looking to relocate and considering hiring a moving company?
Common Signs of a Potential Scam:
Unusually low prices or Lowball estimates
Refusal to do an in-home estimate
Acceptance of cash only
Requests to limit or avoid discussion in writing
Researching Moving Companies
Online Reviews
FMCSA
Ask for Referrals
Working With the Right Company
Discuss all details of the move in writing before signing a contract
Discuss the coverage options
Be aware of additional fees that may be added during the move
Request a list of all moving services that will be provided
The Federal Motor Carrier safety Administration (FMCSA) provides a website to check the moving company’s license type. Please visit https://safer.fmcsa.dot.gov/CompanySnapshot.aspx and enter the moving company DOT or MC number to check the license type that the moving company has been issued, the number of trucks, and their safety rating.
There is an available a list of licensed and insured Movers in California provided by the Bureau of Household Goods and Services. California consumers can visit their website at https://bhgs.dca.ca.gov/enforcement/lookup.shtml . There is the option to browse through different moving companies in California, such as Brooklyn Moving Inc., a nationwide carrier that provides free in-home estimates to ensure the transparency and the accuracy of the moving quote. Requests can be made for a free moving estimate by visiting their website at https://www.brooklynmovinginc.com/request-a-quote
When individuals are looking to relocate, it's important to be aware of potential moving company scams. It's essential to do thorough research before selecting a mover, and to ensure all details are discussed in writing, make sure it is a full service moving company not a moving broker. It's also important to stay vigilant during the move process, and to know the rights and responsibilities as a customer. By taking the time to research and understand the process, this can avoid being taken advantage of by unscrupulous movers. Whether its looking for long distance moving, local moving, storage, truck rental, or interstate moving, it's important to be aware of the potential for scams and to take the necessary steps to protect yourself.
Conclusion
Be aware of potential scams
Do thorough research before selecting a mover
Ensure all details are discussed in writing
Stay vigilant during the move process
Get knowledge of the rights and responsibilities as a customer
