According to Forbes, The Better Business Bureau receives an average of about 13,000 complaints about moving companies each year. Here are five essential tips to help you avoid moving company scams:
Verify Credentials and Licensing:
• Ensure the moving company is properly licensed and insured. For interstate moves in the U.S., check if they have a valid USDOT number from the Department of Transportation.
• Look for local licenses and verify their legitimacy through official state or federal resources.
Read Reviews and Check References:
• Research the company’s reputation online through reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Ask the company for references and follow up with previous customers to hear about their experiences firsthand.
Obtain Written Estimates:
• Get written estimates from at least three different moving companies.
• Avoid companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others, as this can be a tactic used by scammers.
Avoid Large Upfront Deposits:
• Reputable moving companies typically don’t require large upfront deposits.
• Be wary of companies that ask for cash payments or large deposits before the move.
Check Physical Address and Contact Information:
• Verify the company’s physical address and visit if possible. Ensure they have a legitimate office.
• Be cautious if the company’s contact information is incomplete, or they answer the phone with a generic greeting like “movers” instead of the company name.
By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from moving company scams and ensure a smoother, safer moving experience.