The days are gone when you could just trust that any moving estimate you received would be above-board. Unfortunately, the moving industry is rife with “rogue” movers who are out to scam people when they’re most vulnerable – during a move. That’s why it’s important to get at least three moving estimates and know the right questions to ask movers. The answers to those questions could make the difference between being ripped off and paying a fair price to have your goods arrive safely.
When you call a company to estimate moving costs, make sure to keep this list of questions to ask movers handy:
- Do they do an on-site inspection before giving a moving estimate?
If the answer is no, don’t hire that company. Scam movers typically provide low estimates over the phone or the Internet and then refuse to unload your possessions unless you pay a lot more. A reputable company will have no problem with giving you an in-person, weight-based moving estimate that factors in your furniture and all your other belongings. - Who owns the company?
Use this information to do Internet searches to determine if the owner has a history of past misdeeds. Try searching for the owner’s name by itself and then also by adding the word “scam” to it. - What is the company name on the license?
Rogue movers typically have many company names. If the company name on the license is different than the company you’re calling, scratch them off your list. - Do they have insurance?
If the answer is yes, ask to see documentation. If the answer is no, go elsewhere. - Will they allow you to tour their premises?
If the answer is no because they don’t have a warehouse, don’t use that company. If the answer is yes, be sure to visit. A property that isn’t branded with the company name, or that looks disorganized, dirty or like they just moved in could be an indication of a rogue mover. - Will they provide standard industry documentation?
If the mover doesn’t offer to give you copies of the Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move brochures, and information about the arbitration program the company participates in, go elsewhere. These documents are required by law for interstate shipments. - Are they members of the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA)?
Membership doesn’t completely guarantee the mover isn’t a rogue but if they say they’re members and you can’t confirm that with the AMSA, you should go elsewhere.
If the phone is answered with a generic greeting such as “movers” or “moving service” instead of a company name when you call to get a moving furniture estimate, don’t even bother with the rest of the questions and hang up. Scam movers often operate under multiple company names so they can stay ahead of the law. The lack of a clear company identity should be considered a definite red flag.
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