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How To Spot a Moving Company Scam
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How can I avoid a moving company scam?
How To Spot a Moving Company Scam
One of the most common moving company scams happens when a disreputable mover gives a quote then insists the client pay double or triple the amount upon delivery. Here are some tips on how to avoid getting scammed:
- Be wary if your estimate is radically lower than the rest. Raise the red flag for any too-good-to-be-true quotes.
- If you have nothing in writing, there is no reason to believe your estimate will be honored.
- If the moving company does not find out how much you need to move, an accurate estimate of the price cannot be given.
- Avoid companies that only accept cash and/or a large deposit before your belongings will be moved.
- Expect to pay extra to insure you belongings. The company will not have blanket insurance to cover everything you own.
- For all interstate moves, the mover is required by the Federal government to provide you with a copy of Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move.
- Find out if the mover is on the American Moving and Storage Association blacklist of scammers.
- Contact the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Administration to find out if there have been complaints against the company.
- Avoid companies with no physical address or licensing information on the website.
- Try to find companies that give quotes in writing, charge by container size, and include fees like taxes, gas, mileage, and insurance in the estimate. Ask for information about any additional charges that may apply.
