One of the best ways to avoid a moving scam is to make sure you get a real budget for the home. You can get to know your moving company, ask questions, and make sure you get an accurate quote. The first step is to file a direct complaint with the moving company itself. Accredited moving companies will address your issues and reach a mutual agreement.
Contact your local office and headquarters to try to resolve the issue. Handshake deals. Insist on signing a full moving contract before letting the move take your belongings. Start your moving quote today and rest easy knowing that you are working with a reputable and certified moving company to handle all your belongings.
The combination of a pandemic, a booming housing market and many natural disasters has resulted in ample opportunities for illegitimate movers to take advantage of people. During peak moving hours (such as summer months) and in high-volume areas, some moves may need a small deposit to save the move date, so your calendar doesn't fill up too quickly. But rest assured that, in most cases, quality moving companies will not require a deposit when booking your move. Those who move well know that there is no way to measure the actual size and weight of their items without being in the room.
Many moving scams can be cut in the bud right from the start just by having friendly and regular conversations with your carriers about the services they provide and the costs associated with them. Some companies get around the Better Business Bureau and other scam hunters by constantly doing business under new names. If you purchase this coverage separately, in the event of loss or damage that is the responsibility of the moving company, the moving company will only be liable for an amount not to exceed 60 cents per pound per item, and the balance of the loss is recoverable from the insurance company up to the amount of insurance purchased. The problem with moving is that if you pack your own belongings, the moving company is generally not responsible for any damage to them.
Some moving companies look legit online, but in reality they are professional scammers who don't move, steal belongings in the process, or overcharge for their services. How much should your move actually cost? As mentioned, it's impossible to give an accurate quote without actually seeing your stuff. Reputable moving companies (especially interstate movers) charge you based on the weight of your shipment, not the amount of cubic feet of space a moving truck would occupy. If the moving company you work with answers the phone with a generic “moving company” or “moving company”, that's a red flag.
Licensed interstate carriers are required by law to comply with certain regulations and standards of practice that make them more reliable and accountable.