Get at least three estimates:
Bureau’s website, bbb.org. BBB has Business Profiles on more than 20,000 moving related-companies. BBB receives thousands of complaints a year related to overcharging, late deliveries and damaged or missing goods.
BBB and the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) offer the following tips to help you prepare for a move, find a trustworthy moving company and avoid scams: Make sure you get a written in-home estimate. Show your mover everything that needs to be moved and be wary of unusually high or low estimates. Also, know the difference between binding (guaranteed price) and non-binding estimates (estimator’s best guess).
Get ing: all agreements in writ-
Read everything carefully and keep copies, especially the bill of lading, which is the receipt for your goods and the contract for their transportation. Never sign any blank forms or accept a verbal estimate of pick-up and delivery dates or the promise: “as soon as possible.”
Know your rights:
Interstate movers are required by law to provide you with information explaining the moving process, as well as your rights and responsibilities during and after the move. Ask for proof of all licenses, bonding and insurances.
Protect your possessions:
Pick the right protection for you to cover any loss or damage done during the move (limited liability, added valuation or full-value coverage). Before purchasing coverage from your mover, check your homeowner’s insurance policy to see what it will cover.
Be wary of unusual requests:
If a mover asks for a large down payment or full payment in advance, it may be a warning sign. If a company says it won’t return your itemswithout an additional payment, contact BBB or law enforcement for help.
Take you: your valuables with
Cash, coins, jewelry, photographs and important papers should be taken with you. Don’t be
Ask questions:
afraid to ask questions about anything you don’t understand. If the moving company can’t or won’t answer, you might consider another mover.
If you pack your own boxes, many movers will not accept liability for items they didn’t pack.
Packing: Bottom line:
BBB can help you in the process. It can provide a list of BBB Accredited movers and Business Profiles on ones you’re considering. Visit bbb. org or call 937-222-5825 or 800776-5301. Other helpful resources are protectyourmove.gov and moving.org.