How to pick a moving company
Q. My family is relocating to another state during the summer. What advice may BBB offer as we research a reputable mover?
A. Whether moving across town or across the country, nearly a third of consumers choose a professional moving company to assist with their relocation. Movers are one of the top categories of companies searched on the Better Business Bureau website, bbb.org, which has BBB Business Reviews on more than 20,000 moving-related companies.
BBB and the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) offer the following tips on preparing for a move, finding a trustworthy moving company, and avoiding scams:
Do your research. Look up moving companies on bbb.org and on moving.org. Many movers that are BBB Accredited Businesses are also AMSA ProMovers; those companies have pledged to uphold high standards of trust and to resolve complaints quickly. Note the length of time a company has been in business and read reviews from previous customers.
Get at least three estimates. Written, in-home estimates help you make an informed decision. Show the mover everything that needs to be moved (don’t forget storage sheds and garages). Be wary of 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.
Get all agreements in writing. Read everything carefully and make sure you have it all in writing. Get 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.
Know your rights.
Interstate movers are required by law to provide you with certain information that explains the moving process, as well as your rights and responsibilities during and after the move. Ask for proof of licenses, insurance, etc.
Protect your possessions. Make sure that your mover provides full-value protection insurance for any lost or damaged possessions. Note that insurance is by the pound, so expensive items such as a flat-panel television may need additional replacement cost coverage in case they are damaged in transit.
Be wary of unusual requests. 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 BBB or local law enforcement for help.
Take your valuables with you. Cash, coins, jewelry, photographs and important papers should be taken with you or shipped separately using a shipping service with tracking numbers and insurance.
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.
For more information on federal laws: In the United States, check out the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website, protectyourmove.gov.
Jim Winsett is president of the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga.