One of the most stressful aspects in life is moving from one house to another. Most residential moves are a success because the mover chosen is trustworthy, reliable, and experienced.
Although most house moves go smoothly, there are some instances when things can go wrong.
You can protect yourself against possible fraud when moving and prevent your belongings falling into the wrong hands. Do your research and learn about all options available to you before choosing a moving company. You can protect yourself by doing thorough research and planning well.
To avoid falling for moving fraud, follow the 10 steps below.
1. Ask for written estimates from different movers
Ask for moving costs estimates from several reliable house movers in auckland. These estimates should be based on an in-home inspection of your home or apartment, and any household goods that you plan to move.
For accurate estimates that reflect the actual cost of moving, it is important to have your home inspected. Moving companies that offer estimates over the phone or by e-mail but without a physical inspection of your home, should be avoided.
2. Compare the estimates of movers
It is not a good idea for you to choose the first moving company to move your belongings. To find the best interstate moving company for you, it is important to carefully consider your options.
It is a mistake to hire a moving company based on the lowest quote. Compare the offers of moving companies. Pay attention to more than just the price. Also, consider the added services, reputation online, and complaints history.
3. Do not be fooled by “low-ball” cost estimates
Do not accept any estimates of cost that are lower than those provided by other moving companies. Why? Why?
Avoid moving companies that promise you the moon. Don’t believe any estimate that is too good to true. This is especially true if the moving company is unable to explain why they are offering such a low price.
4. Check that the mover has been licensed by the U.S. Department of Transportation. DOT)
To be able to legally operate in the United States, all interstate moving companies must register with the U.S. Department of Transportation. Before a USDOT number can be issued, each cross-country moving company must meet certain financial, insurance, and safety standards.
The USDOT number proves that you are dealing with a licensed and legitimate interstate mover. To find out the most current information on registered interstate movers, and their complaints history, use the FMCSA’s Mover Search Tool.
Professional moving companies are required to move within a specific state. You should consult your state, county, or local consumer affairs agency or your state attorney General.
5. The FMCSA and BBB have information about the complaints history of movers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration can check each company’s complaint history. You can examine the number and type of complaints against registered interstate movers in the FMCSA’s National Consumer Complaint Database.
Check each mover’s complaints record with the Better Business Bureau. You can be sure that your belongings and your home will be safe if you hire a BBB-accredited moving company with a high BBB rating and few customer complaints.
6. Check out moving reviews and movers’ ratings
Check their online reputation through customer reviews and ratings to find a reliable interstate mover. Good moving companies know the importance of a good reputation and do everything they can to provide high-quality services for their clients.
Check out trusted moving review websites to see how others rated the services of the companies you are researching. Avoid professional movers who have a lot of negative reviews or low ratings overall.
This might be a good tip: How to spot fake testimonials about moving companies
7. Ask your movers important questions
Asking the moving company a few questions will help you make the right choice. You want to ensure that your valuable possessions are safe during the move.
These are the top five questions you should ask your movers:
1. How long have you been in business?
2. Is it possible to guarantee that the moving crew who will be handling my belongings is not temporary workers but experienced packers/movers?
3. Are you equipped with the right equipment to complete the task safely?
4. How can you avoid property damage?
5. What happens if my items break or become lost?
8. Take the time to read all documentation
Before you sign anything, make sure you read all documents provided by the movers. The Bill of Lading is a contract between you, the moving company.
You should understand how your move costs and what the rates for any additional services are. Ask the movers to clarify any terms or sections of the Bill of Lading. Don’t be afraid to ask until you understand everything.
Important: Never sign blank forms or documents with blank sections that will be filled out later by the moving company.
9. Know the protection levels for your belongings
You need to understand the options available for protecting your belongings when you choose a moving company. You have two options: Moving insurance or valuation coverage.
When you sign the Bill of Lading you will automatically receive Valuation Coverage. However, it is only 60c per pound per item for moving to another state. This basic coverage is not sufficient so it’s worth looking into purchasing additional moving insurance to protect your household goods.
Professional moving companies should be able offer adequate insurance. This could be from them directly or through a third-party company. The mover must either issue a policy, or keep a written record about the purchase.
10. Before you hire a mover, make sure that you are aware of your rights.
Your Rights and Responsibilities when You Move is the final step in selecting a mover. This booklet was prepared by Department of Transportation and contains valuable information that you should know about moving to different states. This booklet contains important information on what to do if your goods get lost or damaged while moving interstate.
