Beware of These Top 5 Moving Company Scams: 10 Red Flags To Identify

It’s critical to comprehend frequent moving company scams and recognise them in order to protect your relocation and possessions.

Moving to a new house is a thrilling experience, but it can also go horribly wrong if you fall for moving scams. Unsuspecting customers are taken advantage of by dishonest business owners.

Top 5 Moving Company Scams

Scam 1: Bait and Switch Pricing

This con involves providing a low estimate up front, then raising the price once your belongings have been loaded. These business owners demand additional advance payments, which can occasionally result in outright theft of your belongings.

Scam 2: Hidden Extra Charges

Some movers give you an estimate, but once they have your belongings, they charge you a tonne more money. This makes the initial estimate useless and frequently leads to expensive fees or the auctioning off of your possessions.

Scam 3: Property Weight and Size Judo

In order to overcharge you, dishonest movers lie about the weight and size of your possessions. Some even substitute cubic feet for weight, which makes it difficult for clients to check and might result in unforeseen fees.

Scam 4: Unwittingly Hiring a Broker

Online brokers make low price claims but match clients with uninsured or unlicensed movers. They frequently lead to poor service or additional unanticipated costs and demand upfront deposits.

Scam 5: Delivery Problems

With untrustworthy movers, problems with deliveries : late or absent altogether—are frequent. You can be without your possessions for a while if properties are detained, abandoned, or delayed for a number of reasons.

10 Red Flags to Spot Moving Scams:

1. Lack of Company Information
2. Phone Estimates Only
3. Excessive Down Payment Demands
4. Suspiciously Low Bids
5. No Written Estimates
6. Unrealistic Quotes
7. Misleading Insurance Claims
8. Cash-Only Payments
9. Unmarked Trucks
10. Dubious Online Reviews

How to Find a Reliable Mover:

1. Call the FMCSA to confirm the mover’s licence number.
2. Look for ratings and reviews on the mover’s Better Business Bureau profile.
3. Check for the American Moving and Storage Association’s “Pro Mover Programme” certification.
4. For precise pricing, request numerous in-home estimates.

Conclusion

Moving scams are a genuine concern, but by arming yourself with knowledge, you can defend yourself against dishonest businesspeople. By identifying these ploys and exercising caution when choosing a moving company, you can guarantee a simple and secure relocation.

FAQ Related to Moving Company Scams