Moving is stressful enough without the added hassle of dealing with a scam. Hire only reputable movers to avoid moving company scams and potentially higher expenses or lost or damaged items.
In this article, trusted senior moving expert Busy Buddies shares some common moving scams and tips on how you can avoid this kind of negative experience.
Moving Scams
Moving scams range from jacked-up prices post-move to damage or lost items during the move. One of the most common and simplest schemes is when a rogue moving company asks for an upfront deposit but never shows up on moving day.
Another is when a moving company loads all your items into their truck and refuses to unload or move them unless you give them more money. But probably the worst that could happen is when a rogue moving company loads all your belongings into their truck, drives away, and never shows up again. This leaves you with none of your possessions, and often there’s nothing you can do to retrieve them.
How to Prevent a Moving Scam
Whether you’re looking for interstate movers or senior move managers, it’s important to know the company you’re dealing with. Here are a few measures you can take to avoid getting ripped off:
1. Ask for the moving company’s federal motor carrier number or U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. Then, use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)’s website to verify that they are a registered business.
2. Find out if the moving company has a Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation and The American Moving & Storage Administration (AMSA) ProMover certification.
Busy Buddies offers downsizing help for seniors. We’re a licensed and insured business with over two decades of experience. Call us at (703) 828-1833 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. We serve clients in Fairfax, VA, and nearby areas.
