Each year, about 15 million American households move, with the majority changing households between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Unfortunately, this same time period also is peak season for moving company scams.
To avoid falling victim to common scams, experts in the moving industry recommend consumers do the following:
· Go with a company that has a well-known and recognized name
· Get a referral from friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues
· Ask for an in-home estimate, to ensure accuracy of the estimate
· Don't always go with the lowest price
· Do not pay up-front fees
· Conduct research on the government website protectyourmove.gov to find out if a mover is licensed for interstate moves by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association.
· Get all details of the transaction in writing
· Request a copy of "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move," a brochure created by the Federal Highway Administration that outlines consumers' rights. Federal law requires movers to give this to customers prior to an interstate move.
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