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- How to avoid this scam: Check the company's track record. Look up the company's profile on the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints filed against them. You could also check www.movingscam.com to see a list of blacklisted moving companies.
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Jan 31, 2022 · Fake Moving Companies. When looking for a moving company, the first thing most people do is search online. Unfortunately, the internet opens you up to several scams. One of the most common moving scams to be aware of is fake moving companies with fake websites and social media accounts. How these Moving Scams Work.
- Tatyana Meshcheryakova
- Phoning it in. A mover who doesn’t insist on an on-site inspection of your household goods is giving you a sight-unseen estimate — and those are usually too good to be true.
- The cursory glance. An “estimator” who does a quick walk-through of your home without opening cabinets and taking note of exactly what you plan to move is going to be way off the mark.
- The “required” deposit. Reputable movers will NOT demand cash or any large deposit before moving you. You generally pay upon delivery. If you pay upfront, you have zero control over when you’ll see your belongings again.
- The name change. Some companies get around the Better Business Bureau and other such scam busters by constantly doing business under new names. Be sure the company has a local address and information about licensing and insurance.
Aug 26, 2024 · 6 types of moving scams. Scammers have developed various tactics to take advantage of unsuspecting movers. Being aware of these common scams can help you stay vigilant and protect yourself: 1) Stolen belongings: Movers disappear with your property after loading the truck. 2) False quote: Movers demand more money on moving day, claiming ...
- Requiring Cash Payment or a Large Deposit Up Front. Deposits are kind of like tipping: Not everyone knows when it’s appropriate or not. But in most cases, quality moving companies will not require a deposit when booking your move.
- Offering a Quote Sight Unseen. If you’ve ever tried to load your car for a short road trip, you probably know it’s hard to estimate how much stuff will fit into your vehicle.
- Offering a Quote That Seems Suspiciously Low. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. A super-low moving cost estimate could be a bait-and-switch moving scam.
- Not Showing Up as a Licensed Mover in the FMCSA Database. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is like the health department of the moving industry: If your mover isn’t listed with them, it’s time to find a new company.
- Do Your Research and Choose A Reputable Mover
- Watch Out For Unrealistic Estimates
- Be Aware of Hostage Scams
- Understand The Red Flags of A Moving Scam
- Be Cautious When Using Third-Party Brokers
- Report Moving Scams Immediately
- Stay Organized During Your Move
The foundation of a successful move starts with hiring a reputable moving company. Scam movers often pop up with fake websites, lowball estimates, or limited online presence to lure in unsuspecting customers. To avoid falling into their trap, follow these steps:
One common tactic scammers use is to offer an incredibly low estimate to secure your business, only to increase the price significantly once your belongings are loaded onto the truck. Here’s how to avoid being trapped by an unrealistic estimate:
In a hostage scam, movers pack up your belongings and then refuse to deliver them until you pay a much higher fee than originally agreed upon. This is not only unethical but illegal. Here’s how to avoid such scams:
Spotting early warning signs can help you steer clear of fraudulent movers. Be on the lookout for these red flags:
While some legitimate moving brokers can help connect you with moving companies, fraudulent brokers may charge you extra fees without offering any real services or connecting you to unreliable movers. If you choose to work with a broker, ensure they are registered with the FMCSA, and verify the moving company they assign you to before agreeing to a...
If you believe you’ve fallen victim to a moving scam, take action right away. Reporting fraudulent activity can help recover your losses and prevent others from being scammed. Here’s what to do:
Organization is key to a smooth move. Keeping detailed records of contracts, receipts, and communication with your moving company can help you avoid misunderstandings and protect yourself if disputes arise. Make sure you:
Sep 11, 2023 · The Removal Company scams to watch out for and top advice on how to avoid them. Complete with step-by-step instructions on how hire a trustworthy removal firm for your home move.
Jan 20, 2024 · When planning a move, awareness and vigilance are key to protection against scams. Unfortunately, among the many reputable moving companies, some engage in deceptive practices, leaving you vulnerable during what is already a stressful time.
