Moving Season! - Tips for avoiding scams and hiring right!
1. Do your research.
Get more than one written, in home estimates so you can
make an informed decision. Show the mover everything that
needs to be moved, from the attic to the basement and
including any sheds, garages and storage areas. Avoid any
unusually high or low estimates. If someone says they can
give you an estimate over the phone or by email, it's
possible they're trying to scam you.
2. Know your rights.
Reputable interstate movers must, by law, provide you with
the federal publications that explain the moving process,
as well as the cost of value insurance and your rights and
responsibilities during and after the process. If a mover
asks for a large down payment or full payment in advance,
that may be a warning sign. And if a company says it won't
return your items to you without more money than you
agreed to pay, contact the Better Business Bureau or local
law enforcement for help.
3. Get all agreements in writing.
Read everything carefully and make sure you have it all in
writing, along with copies of everything you sign
especially the most important document -- the bill of
lading, which is the receipt for your goods and the
contract for their transportation. Never sign any blank
forms!
4. Take your valuables with you.
Cash, coins, jewelry, photographs and important papers
should be taken with you or shipped separately. Use a
shipping service with tracking numbers, such as FedEx or
UPS.
5. Ask Questions.
Don't be afraid to ask questions about anything you don't
understand. If the moving company can't or won't answer
your questions, you might want to look for another mover.