Monthly Archives: December 2017

A Checklist to Avoid Moving Scams

You’ve probably heard the many versions of horror stories regarding disreputable moving companies. Movers load up your things one day and the hold it hostage while demanding more money, or disappear altogether with your things and resell them later. Not only can they demand more money, but sometimes when your things are finally returned to you they may not be in their original condition. They might be damaged, scratched, or broken. How can you avoid all of this hassle and heartache? It’s simple: Do your homework and check out your moving company first.

FOLLOW THIS SIMPLE CHECKLIST TO AVOID SCAMS:

  1. Always get 3 estimates: When shopping around for movers, it’s always a good idea to get at least 3 estimates for comparison so you can compare prices. The most common scam is overcharging for a move.
  2. Investigate the company: Check with your area’s BBB (Better Business Bureau) for any complaints filed. Additionally, you can check websites solely dedicated to moving scams, such as movingscam.com. These contain a “blacklist” of companies which contain both bad and good experiences.
  3. The moving company should visit your home: A representative should always come to the client’s residence and physically look at the logistics and contents of what has to be moved. Reputable moving companies will spend time with their clients to answer questions and provid guidance for packing tips. Beware of internet companies that do not have their own facility or warehouse and do not own their own moving trucks.
  4. Insist on a contract that covers everything: A good contract should spell out all details of a move. There should be no “hidden charges”, for example, a “drivers fee”. The contract should consist of several pages of information explaining details of the move. Scam companies tend to make it sound too easy; something like: “Moving from Point A to Point B… Here’s the price”.
  5. Real estate agent recommendations: General consensus among moving professionals is usually word of mouth. Friends and family are fine but real estate agents have more information and know the ins and outs of the housing industry and can be the most reliable sources.

Doing your homework and investigating the company first will ensure that you are hiring a professional moving company that has DOT# and MC numbers along with Insurance for protection and claims. Please call us at BB&D with any questions. We’re more than happy to help make your move as smooth and stress-free as can be!

A Checklist to Avoid Moving Scams

You’ve probably heard the many versions of horror stories regarding disreputable moving companies. Movers load up your things one day and the hold it hostage while demanding more money, or disappear altogether with your things and resell them later. Not only can they demand more money, but sometimes when your things are finally returned to you they may not be in their original condition. They might be damaged, scratched, or broken. How can you avoid all of this hassle and heartache? It’s simple: Do your homework and check out your moving company first.

FOLLOW THIS SIMPLE CHECKLIST TO AVOID SCAMS:

  1. Always get 3 estimates: When shopping around for movers, it’s always a good idea to get at least 3 estimates for comparison so you can compare prices. The most common scam is overcharging for a move.
  2. Investigate the company: Check with your area’s BBB (Better Business Bureau) for any complaints filed. Additionally, you can check websites solely dedicated to moving scams, such as movingscam.com. These contain a “blacklist” of companies which contain both bad and good experiences.
  3. The moving company should visit your home: A representative should always come to the client’s residence and physically look at the logistics and contents of what has to be moved. Reputable moving companies will spend time with their clients to answer questions and provid guidance for packing tips. Beware of internet companies that do not have their own facility or warehouse and do not own their own moving trucks.
  4. Insist on a contract that covers everything: A good contract should spell out all details of a move. There should be no “hidden charges”, for example, a “drivers fee”. The contract should consist of several pages of information explaining details of the move. Scam companies tend to make it sound too easy; something like: “Moving from Point A to Point B… Here’s the price”.
  5. Real estate agent recommendations: General consensus among moving professionals is usually word of mouth. Friends and family are fine but real estate agents have more information and know the ins and outs of the housing industry and can be the most reliable sources.

Doing your homework and investigating the company first will ensure that you are hiring a professional moving company that has DOT# and MC numbers along with Insurance for protection and claims. Please call us at BB&D with any questions. We’re more than happy to help make your move as smooth and stress-free as can be!