Better Business Bureau offers tips for hiring movers

The Better Business Bureau office in San Diego which serves San Diego, Orange and Imperial counties on a continual basis offers consumers tips on how to keep an eye out for scams, hiring professional services and more.

May marks the beginning of a four-month stretch where millions of Americans will hire a moving service to transport their belongings. More than half of all annual moves occur during “moving season,” mostly due to the end of the school year and summer break. However, in 2015, there were over 8,000 complaints filed with BBB against moving and storage companies across the U.S. Many complaints reported additional fees on top of original estimates, damaged items, and valuables held hostage until an additional payment was made. Moving scams are still ever present and are a problem for thousands of consumers every year stated a press release from the BBB. The BBB is offering the following tips to avoid an unpleasant moving experience:

 Word of mouth. Sometimes the best way to find a trusted mover is to talk to friends, family, neighbors and previous clients who can give you a recommendation.

 Research the company thoroughly. Once you have a list of recommendations, go online and check the company’s reputation. Read reviews and complaints about the business. You may also want to visit a company’s office to make sure they are who they say they are.

 Get at least three written estimates. It is important to get multiple in-home estimates, so you can compare your options and decide which one is best for you before committing. Be sure you have an on-site visit for the most accurate estimate.

 Be wary of low estimates. If a company offers a surprisingly low quote, be wary. A business offering a drastically lower estimate may demand additional payment upon delivery.

 Check for a license. This verification should confirm that you are dealing with a certified and insured company that is allowed to operate within the U.S. This also means that the company’s insurance should cover any damages.

 Consider accepting the full value protection. Although it may cost extra, consider the full value protection plan. This plan ensures that the mover is responsible for all your valuables while in their custody, and they will be required to pay or replace anything that gets lost or damaged.

 Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Estimates and protection plans vary between companies. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about any details you may be unsure of.

 Stick to credit cards. Never pay with cash and avoid a mover that demands a deposit up front. It’s important to choose the safest payment method, and BBB suggests paying with a credit card.

 Know your rights. Every moving company is required by law to provide you with a “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” brochure. If they don’t, take extra precaution before committing.

“Your BBB wants to make sure your move goes as smoothly as possible,” stated the press release from BBB. Visit a company’s Business Review on bbb.org, where you can see their time in business, physical location, if there are any complaints against the business and you can read customer reviews. For additional questions or concerns, call BBB’s 24-hour Customer Helpline at 858496-2131.