Minimize your risk of a scam or shady service the next time you move by looking out for these warning signs.
- Demands for payment by cash - moving companies are also required to accept credit cards or personal checks.
- Anonymous-looking trucks - beware of traditional rental trucks or a truck with no distinct markings at all.
- Blank documents & contracts - moving scammers try to get consumers to agree to, & sign, blank documents. DO NOT sign anything that you have not reviewed and approved. Make sure to get all your questions and concerns addressed and answered before signing the contract.
- Rates based on cubic feet - prices should be based on weight, which can always be verified by state-certified scales. Cubic feet methods will not allow you to verify the amount you will be charged.
- Requests for deposits - a legitimate company will not ask for a deposit, but will expect payment on delivery & before the shipment is unloaded from the truck.
- Refusal to visit your home prior to the move - Avoid movers who only give estimates over the phone or refuse to physically examine the goods prior to moving day. An in-house estimate should be required and offered without asking.
- No company visibility in your area - Pick a company that has a presence in your area. Don't assume a nice website or ad in the yellow pages translates into a genuine moving operation. Research the moving company, check with the Better Business Bureau, and follow up with any referrals.
- Deals that sound too good to be true - Get at least 3 estimates, and be cautious of rock-bottom prices.
What other signs should consumers be aware of when searching for a good moving company?
Do you have any moving stories to share?
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Dateline did a story on this a couple of years ago. People have really been messed up by shady moving companies. I'd always go with the big guys. Also, I've had friends move across the country and found that hiring a company to do the move for them was easier and cheaper than doing it themselves.