Movers To Avoid

The Hostage Scam

• Don't be held hostage. The wrong mover will have you agree to a low estimate, which will sound good at the time. Once the truck is loaded, the company changes the charges and if you refuse to pay, it will refuse to release your belongings.

The Bait and Switch Scam

• Don't fall for this bait and switch. The original estimate is based on the weight of your goods, but when you get the bill, you find you're being charged for "cubic feet," so you now have to pay an inflated price to get your belongings.

Trumped Up Charges Scam

• You've signed the original contract estimate, and there are additional clauses added after the fact, i.e., "We needed to pack you, so it took more of our time." More money has been added to the estimate you already agreed on.

Reckless Abandonment Scam

• You paid your mover a large deposit, and the company has suddenly closed up shop and left your furniture at a storage facility. When you find it, you have to pay the storage fees and spend more money to move it to your final destination.

What Good Movers Do

• Good movers never ask for anything up front, like a deposit. Good movers always explain the contract and estimate, and fill it in completely. They tell you the price, delivery date, needed supplies, complete list of possessions, and the fact that the estimate is based on weight, not cubic feet. Good movers deal directly with you, are nationallly recognized with clearly marked trucks and have a physical address. Good movers don't ask for the final payment in cash, and they give receipts.

What You Can Do

• Buy extra insurance to protect you valuables. Moving companies insurance usually doesn't cover to the full extent of your possessions. Ask about the mover's claims process in case you need it. Ask your real estate agent for the name of a mover; these professionals are usually very knowledge about such matters. Check out the moving company on the website, ProtectYourMove.org or find blacklisted movers on MovingScam.org.