We understand moving is a messy, complicated, and stressful task you want to wrap up as soon as you can. And although moving companies can help take much weight off your shoulders, you still need to be attentive. A million moves are registered every year in the US Department of Transportation, and most of them go smoothly. But many complaints are also lodged into the authorities’ files about frauds. These companies pretend to be reliable movers but steal or keep your belongings hostage for money. The best way to end the moving scams is to inform the customers about those tricks and caution them in advance.
Let us discuss some ways that your moving company may scam you-
- “We Are Fully Registered But Cannot Show Our Papers”: Transportation companies and movers must have a registered license from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a USDOT number as its proof. A reliable company will readily show you their license when asked. If your potential company is not obliging, you should leave that office immediately.
- “We Can Give You An Estimate Over the Call”: Good moving companies always ask you for a site visit to estimate your moving job. They have the experience that families have more stuff than they think they do. One factor in your relocation estimation is the weight of your items. If you have heavier items, the price goes up. If a company gives you an estimate over the phone without looking at the articles, they are likely to take an inaccurate amount somewhere, which will be costly for you later on. It is best to get written paperwork after an on-site visit with all charges added to avoid confusion.
- “Please Give Some Advance Payment”: A reliable and old moving company will only ask for payment once the shifting is completed. If they ask you for advance payment in any form, you should check other movers on your list.
- “You Don’t Need Insurance for this Move”: A moving company that wants you to remain their customers for a lifetime and does not want to degrade its name will ask you to take insurance whether you are moving locally or over a longer distance. Two kinds of insurance coverage are required by FMCSA- Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can get more information about these on the official website of FMCSA. Your preferred mover should ask you to choose between the two options. If they don’t, they may be running away from their responsibility and possibly be frauds.
- “Please Sign the Contract To Get A House Visit”: A reliable company will not make you sign any paperwork before giving you an estimate. There is no contract required for house visits. A contract is only signed after you are provided with the estimation and agree to hire them.
About Southwest Movers:
If you are relocating, Southwest Movers is a reliable company for all your moving requirements, from packing to shipping. They provide excellent customer services with complete reliability, state-of-the-art equipment, good old-fashioned hard work, and friendly professionalism. Visit us at our website or dial 1(800)562-1084 or mail us at info@swmovers.net for more information on our services.