Watch out for these red flags to avoid moving scams
As May begins, marking the busiest moving month of the year, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) are joining forces to warn consumers about the dangers of moving scams and the importance of careful selection when hiring movers.
“Families already have a lot on their plates during a move, and they might not recognize the red flags of a substandard mover or a con artist posing as a legitimate company,” said Steve Bernas, BBB president and CEO. “The consequences can be severe, ranging from exorbitant prices and damaged furniture to, in the worst-case scenario, the complete disappearance of your belongings.”
When it comes to hiring a mover, trust is paramount. While there are many reputable moving companies, it is crucial to read ratings and reviews before choosing.
“BBB.org is an excellent starting point for your search,” Bernas said. “Remember, a lower price doesn’t always mean a better deal. Scammers and subpar movers often use lowball offers to lure unsuspecting customers.’”
Last year, the BBB received more than 1,000 complaints against moving companies.
“Most people only hire a mover a few times in their lives, making the process unfamiliar and leaving them vulnerable to scammers,” Bernas said.
According to the BBB Scam Tracker, consumers report hundreds of thousands of dollars in losses to moving scams annually. Common issues reported include receiving a quote and paying a deposit, only for the movers never to show up. Other complaints involve items arriving late or damaged, or being held hostage by a disreputable company demanding a higher price.
Another prevalent scam involves movers providing a quote based on the expected weight of the load. After loading the truck, they inform the consumer that the load exceeds the expected weight, requiring an additional fee. Often, this extra cost is significantly higher per pound, sometimes double the original estimate.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, the BBB and ICC urge consumers to thoroughly research moving companies, read reviews, and verify credentials before making a decision. By taking these precautions, you can ensure a smoother and safer moving experience.
When moving within the state, always check with a great partner of the BBB, the Illinois Commerce Commission.
“We are here to make moving less stressful for consumers,” said ICC Chief of Police Ruben Ramirez, Jr. “Before you say ‘yes’ to hiring a household goods mover, take a moment to visit the ICC’s website to confirm whether they hold an ICC license and check their complaint history. Being informed is key to protecting your pocketbook and possessions from scams and unfair practices.”
When moving between states, check licensing with the U.S. Department of Transportation. All interstate moving companies require an identification number issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, which can be verified at ProtectYourMove.org.
BBB recommends consumers follow these guidelines:
• Watch out for warning signs. When reviewing a company’s website, if there is no address or information about a mover’s registration or insurance, it is a sign that it may not possess the appropriate policies to protect a consumer’s belongings. Additionally, it may not be a legitimate business if the mover uses a rented truck or offers an estimate over the phone before conducting an on-site inspection.
• Get everything in writing. Though most professional movers do give quotes over the phone, it’s still a good idea to get written documentation of all the services you are receiving. If an estimate seems too good to be true, it likely is. Get three written estimates from different movers based on in-person visits to your home. Be sure the estimates are based on weight, not cubic feet, and opt for full-value replacement liability insurance. If the services change at any point, ensure that both parties document and understand these changes. Do not sign any contract that has blank spaces instead of prices.
• Keep an inventory of your belongings. An inventory sheet is one of the best ways to keep track of your possessions. Label the boxes your belongings are packed in and what is in each box. Movers are not liable for lost or damaged contents in customer-packed boxes unless there is provable negligence on the mover’s part. Taking photos of the contents before packing is a great way to prove if damages were incurred during the moving process.
• Ask questions. If the moving company cannot or will not answer your questions, look for another company.
If you encounter a scam, report it to the BBB Scamtracker to help alert others and protect your community. Look for the BBB seal, The Sign of a Better Business.