How to recognize fraudulent movers

Figure 1 A woman with question marks around her head asking herself how to recognize fraudulent movers

The moving industry has grown considerably in recent years. Nowadays, there are numerous moving companies you can turn to should you need any help with your relocation. Although the advantages of this competitive market are undeniable, we cannot neglect the appearance of fraudulent movers as well. They have one and only aim – to take advantage of people in need of moving services. So, how to recognize fraudulent movers? More importantly, what is the appropriate protection from them? Here is our comprehensive answer.

What are the signs to help you recognize fraudulent movers?

One can never be cautious enough when hiring professional movers. The mere fact that these professionals move your household items or even your office, speaks volumes about the importance of this endeavor. Hence, take some time to study and remember the standard procedures respectable and reliable moving companies follow. Only then will you be able to notice any irregularities and recognize fraudulent movers in no time. Moreover, here is the list of the most common signs indicating that you are dealing with fraudulent movers.

Issuing a moving estimate without an in-house inspection

Unsurprisingly, finances are a major factor when relocating. Generally, your budget determines which moving services you can afford. Then, it does not surprise that we are always impatient to study estimates issued by the companies we are considering. While it is true that technology has made the whole procedure considerably easier and less time-consuming by enabling online estimates, these are rarely accurate and a piece of information you can rely on.

Instead, reputable moving companies always arrange in-home estimates. This is the regular practice of Moving Kings Van Lines FL as well. They send their representatives to inspect your belongings, discuss all the moving-related issues and finally provide you with the relevant information. So, if a company refuses to make an effort and handle all these tasks, the chances are you are dealing with rogue movers. We strongly advise you not to hire them even though you may like the price for the services they are offering.

Requiring a deposit in advance

No honorable and professional mover will ever request a deposit in advance. If they do, you can easily recognize fraudulent movers. Cross them out of your list of potential movers and move on. This is the only reasonable decision.

Not providing you with the essential booklet on moving

Only few people know that moving companies are obliged by the federal law to provide their clients with a booklet on moving. The name of this booklet is “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move”. It has slightly more than 20 pages and it is very useful to read. When you receive this booklet from your movers during the planning phase of your relocation, you can relax. This unmistakably means your movers are licensed, responsible and well-informed on the laws they need to obey. Leave the relocation to them so that you can concentrate on the things to do when moving into a new house.

Offering a blank contract

Undoubtedly, signing a moving contract is always an intelligent decision and the perfect protection in case of any inconveniences or irregularities. However, if you are offered an incomplete or even a blank contract, under no circumstances should you sign it. Furthermore, legal jargon can also be confusing and difficult to understand, nevertheless, all the points in your contract should be clear. Hence, keep your eyes peeled when signing anything. Pay close attention to the points defining moving services, moving costs, pick up and delivery dates, extra fees if any, insurance and payment. In case you need professional assistance, do not hesitate to contact your attorney.

Not having the customer review page on their website

Customers’ reviews are an important indicator of what you can expect by hiring the company in question. Real professionals are never intimidated by criticism. They see each negative comment as an incentive to move on, improve the quality of their services and gain new satisfied customers. So, if you cannot find this page on your potential movers’ website, or you can but all the comments are positive, this may signal a red flag.

Recognize fraudulent movers according to the way they answer the phone

It is not uncommon for people to consult the internet in their search for appropriate movers. There, next to the names of companies, they can also find contact information. Then, they decide to make a phone call and ask for the crucial pieces of information they need. When one of the representatives answers the phone without mentioning the name of the company or without introducing himself/herself, this is a bad sign. Most often, people would advise you to recognize fraudulent movers according to these parameters.

Measures to take so as not to fall victim to fraudulent movers

If you want to make your relocation process enjoyable, it is necessary to take some measures to protect your interests, your budget, and your household items. Besides having the key information that enables you to recognize fraudulent movers easily, there are some other steps you can take. Stick to them and you can expect to arrange an event at home to celebrate a successful relocation.

Ask people you trust for recommendations

This is the shortest and yet the safest way to find reliable movers. You can apply it to locksmith services, for example, or any other type of professional services you need. Unfortunately, when it comes to moving, this strategy seldom gives any results because people do not move that often. Interestingly, some moving companies with high reputation are very often willing to provide their prospective clients with the list of at least three references. They want you to hear other people’s experiences with their company to make sure you are making the right choice.

Check whether the movers you are considering are licensed and insured

By visiting relevant websites, you can easily make sure whether a company you are considering is licensed and insured. Inspect the information on the websites of the following organizations and recognize fraudulent movers immediately:

• The American Moving and Storage Association – The organization regularly updates the list of Pro-mover certified intrastate and interstate movers. If your potential movers are not on the list, say goodbye to them at once.
• The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Organization – Here, you can find a wealth of information on safety and insurance. With only a few clicks, it is possible to know whether there are any claims filed against the companies on your list. If the answer is affirmative, it would be better to avoid hiring those movers.
• Better Business Bureau – This non-profit organization will help you find out all you need to know about a moving company. It includes current ratings, complaints history and any legal actions the company you are considering may be involved in. Armed with these pieces of relevant information, you can recognize fraudulent movers without any difficulty.