How to choose the best moving company when it’s time to relocate
Q. My family will be moving to another state during the summer. What advice may BBB provide on finding 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 Profiles on more than 20,000 moving-related companies.
In 2017, BBBs nationwide fielded more than 1.4 million requests for BBB Business Profiles from consumers looking for movers; while 6,314 complaints about movers were registered with BBB. Common complaints included damaged or missing items, bills that were higher than estimates, late deliveries and in some cases, goods held hostage for additional payments.
BBB offers the following tips on preparing for a move, finding a trustworthy moving company, and avoiding scams:
Do your research. Look up Business Profiles for moving companies on bbb.org. The American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) also identify movers that have pledged to uphold high standards of trust and to resolve complaints quickly. Many movers that are BBB Accredited Businesses also are AMSA ProMovers. Note the length of time a company has been in business and read reviews from previous customers.
Verify the mover’s claims, credentials and professional memberships. Scammers and flyby-night operators will not be able to substantiate a good reputation.
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 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. Ask for written documentation of any special terms and conditions, complete costs, payment timelines and warranty information. If it’s not written down, it doesn’t exist. 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. Find out what your household insurance will and won’t cover during a move.
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.
Some “red flags” to watch for when hiring movers include:
› Movers who demand cash or a large deposit before the move.
› Company websites that have no address and no information about a mover’s registration or insurance.
› Movers who claim all items are covered by their insurance.
For more information on federal regulations and information:
In the United States, check out the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website, protectyourmove.gov.
To view additional consumer tips, visit bbb.org.
Jim Winsett is president of the Better Business Bureau in Chattanooga.