How to Choose a Mover

Moving Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

Yes, moving can be complicated, but, with a little research and planning, you can avoid moving scams and eliminate much of the stress associated with a long-distance move. Here are some suggestions to avoid a stressful move:

1. Talk to Friends A good moving company is going to have happy customers eager to share an opinion. Look to social media or ask friends if they have had positive experiences with any moving companies.
2. Find a Trusted Advisor Talk to local real estate agents or home improvement contractors who work with movers every day. They can offer a professional perspective.
3. Dust off the Yellow Pages It is important to recognize that not all moving company websites represent legitimate moving companies. Your local phone book can help you find established moving companies with actual physical addresses and real brick and mortar offices.
4. Check Business Credentials Once you’ve made a list of prospective movers, contact each company and get their full legal name and ‘doing business as’ (DBA) names, the number of years in business, DOT and MC license numbers. With credentials in hand, you can reference FMCSA resources to see if a mover is federally licensed.

Obtaining Price Estimates

Reputable moving companies will comply with federal regulations. In order to receive a moving quote, a representative will likely require a visual survey your goods and to provide an estimate of cost. You can schedule multiple estimates to compare. Keep in mind, many times, if you receive a quote by phone or online, changes in pricing can occur if you don’t receive a binding estimate. A visual assessment (whether in-person or virtually) can clarify these points and help to ensure accurate pricing from the beginning. During the estimate, take time to show the representative every item you wish to have moved. It is easy to overlook items in the basement, attic or in storage. The mover should be asking you probing questions so they can price the job accurately and adequately prepare for the move. You should feel free to ask any questions to assure your confidence in the company. Inquire about “valuation” options. The valuation option you choose determines the mover’s maximum liability for loss or damage caused by their handling and transportation. The liability of a mover for loss or damage is based upon the mover’s tariffs, as well as federal laws and regulations, and has certain limitations and exclusions.

Don’t Fall Victim to Moving Scams!

Did you know that approximately 3,000 Americans are affected by moving fraud every year? Most often, rogue operations offer low initial estimates, then hold a victim’s possessions hostage until they receive additional payments. You can avoid falling victim to scams by looking for the following red flags:

1. Don’t Offer a Deposit Legitimate movers should never ask for a deposit before moving your items.
2. Check the Physical Address Check moving companies’ websites and the phone book to ensure they have a physical address in your area. Having a residential address, no address, or just listing a P.O. Box could be an indicator the business is not legitimate.
3. Verify an Active License Look for a U.S. DOT number on the companies’ website. All moving companies should have active operating authority and adequate insurance.
4. Check Service Records Check a company’s reputation and qualifications with organizations like Moving & Storage Conference of the American Trucking Associations and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

What To Do When Moving Scams Occur

Unfortunately, some consumers will still fall victim to rogue operators this year. Fortunately, there are tips and resources available through the MoveResuce website. MoveRescue was the first-industry endorsed program to serve as a central source for interstate moving consumers who need moving education or anti-fraud information.