Moving is one of the most stressful things a person can do in their lives, and the thought of rogue movers can make it even worse. However, there are several things you can watch out for when choosing a moving company to avoid getting scammed.
False Reviews and False Credentials
Instead of having honest reviews from previous customers linked to their company name, rogue movers will typically have their employees leave glowing reviews about the company and its affiliates. Their goal is to deceive as many people as possible – and unfortunately, with today’s emphasis on online reviews and social media – this is often effective. To avoid false reviews, talk to friends, family, and coworkers about moving companies they’ve used in the past. Word-of-mouth references are usually the most reliable.
- If you do choose to read online reviews, check multiple review platforms to get a balanced overview. Don’t blindly trust positive reviews. Focus on the negative ones, and even more importantly, see how the company responded to those negative reviews.
- A reliable way to check a company’s legitimacy is to visit the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website and see their rating.
Avoid Lowball Estimates
Low prices can be tempting, and paying less for a service is always appealing. However, sometimes a very low price is a red flag. Fraudulent movers often use this tactic to lure you in, but they rarely deliver on their promises. Avoid movers who give quick, lowball estimates over the phone without offering to come to your home and assess your belongings. Even if they do a visual estimate, be wary of companies that rush the process, provide little discussion, or give a hasty estimate. Contact multiple companies for estimates to understand the current competitive rates, and don’t hesitate to question an estimate if it seems too low.
Goods Being Held Hostage
The worst-case scenario during a move is having your goods held hostage until you pay an inflated price for their release. These scams are illegal. If you become a victim of this fraud, here are some steps you can take:
- Prevention is key: Research all moving companies you’re considering.
- Contact the authorities if your goods are being held hostage or have been stolen.
- File a complaint with the Department of Transportation.
Large Deposits
Legitimate moving companies typically don’t ask for cash or large upfront deposits. Usually, you pay the agreed-upon amount upon delivery. Be extremely cautious if a company demands full payment before delivery – this is a major red flag.
Some legitimate companies might require a small deposit during peak season or to secure a moving date. This isn’t usually a problem if you’ve thoroughly vetted the mover. However, the deposit should not exceed 15% of the final moving price, and there’s no reason they should demand cash only.
Incomplete or Blank Documents
Dishonest movers exploit the stress of moving day, often by providing unfinished or blank documents for you to sign. Never sign incomplete paperwork. Doing so gives the mover control over extra costs and additional conditions that may arise. Always refuse to sign anything that looks incomplete. Even if you trust the company, request documents in advance to review them carefully (including the fine print). Pay close attention to any extra services and rates, and double-check your inventory sheets to ensure all your belongings are accounted for.
Hopefully, these tips will help you avoid illegitimate movers and choose a reputable company to handle your precious belongings during your next move.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is moving often considered a stressful experience?
Moving is one of life’s most stressful events, and concerns about rogue movers only add to the pressure.
What are false reviews, and how can they mislead consumers?
Rogue movers often create fake reviews to build a false sense of trust, misleading potential customers about their reliability.
How can individuals ensure they get reliable reviews for moving companies?
Talk to friends, family, and coworkers for personal recommendations and check multiple review platforms for a broader perspective.
What should consumers look for in online reviews to avoid scams?
Focus on negative reviews and how the company responded to them. This can reveal a lot about their customer service.
What is the issue with lowball estimates from moving companies?
Lowball estimates can be a sign of fraudulent movers who may not deliver the promised services. Always get in-home assessments for accurate quotes.
