Utilizing the services of a moving company is a crucial decision that involves more than just financial factors. Trusting a company to transport your belongings and relying on that they will arrive at their destination in good condition and at the agreed-upon price is a monumental decision.
Sadly, this is infrequently the case. Scams by moving companies appear to be on the rise as the number of people moving across state lines or long distances increases.
Signs of danger and scam indicators
Certain moving companies appear legitimate on the internet, but in reality, they are experienced fraudsters who do not complete moves, seize items belonging to customers when they move them or charge exorbitant fees for their services. These are the most important warning signs and indicators of fraud by movers that you must look for:
- A high number of complaints from customers have not been handled or do not have any reviews at all.
- There is no registration is required with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- If you wish to relocate during non-peak times, you must make a substantial down payment.
- Before the relocation, ensure that the clients have signed the blank contract or other forms.
- Credit cards are NOT accepted by the company. Instead, you are required to pay your mover in cash.
- Instead of agreeing to an on-site inspection to provide accurate cost estimates, they provide instant quotes to customers.
Scam moving companies in NYC can sometimes make it appear that they are not available to address customers’ questions or speak with them. However, the reality is that since you’re the one who is paying to use the services, you are entitled to a right to be informed of the happenings.
Consider it a warning sign if the moving company doesn’t appear willing to respond to your questions or if you’re unable to contact them, except for the times when you have to pay the moving companies. Suppose you are in constant and respectful conversations with your movers regarding the services they offer and the related charges. In that case, You will be able to prevent many moving scams from happening at all.
What is the ideal time to file a complaint against fraud?
When your rights as a consumer are violated, or you want to warn other customers about a business, registering a complaint is a proper option. Beware of scams that appear to be moving violations, and need you to file a formal complaint.
- Overpays. Overpays. The cost increase is not more than ten percent of the amount quoted.
- Your possessions are held as a hostage. Fraud moving brokers may sometimes employ your belongings as hostages in order to pressure you into paying an additional amount.
Other circumstances such as delays in delivery, badly damaged products, or poor service aren’t always grounds to be a legal matter; it’s nevertheless advisable to make a complaint. If you’re dealing with a professional top moving company, Your concerns must be treated with seriousness, and staff members should do their best to solve these issues.
Choose a trustworthy moving company to avoid scams
When selecting a moving company the best way to minimize the chance of being cheated is to undergo a personal screening process which teaches you to spot the numerous warning signs that are used by scammers. Try to do so when considering other companies and analyzing your options:
- Call a few credible moving companies, for example, Zeromax movers to confirm their credentials. Check whether they have insurance and have been registered. You can look up the registration information of a moving company by entering their USDOT number on FMCSA’s website.
- Verify that the company you hire to move your belongings offers a comprehensive written contract outlining the entire amount each party is accountable for.
- If you are looking for a moving firm, make sure to only deal with those keen enough to get everything written down. Estimates and quotations made over the phone do not make legal sense.
- Examine the reviews posted on a variety of internet rating sites, including qqmoving.com.
- To avoid unpleasant price increases It’s a good idea to get an estimate on the spot from the mover.
- Google Maps has a street-view option that allows you to check the address of the business.
Keep in mind that you can always consult people you are familiar with, such as your colleagues, neighbors, and relatives, to recommend legitimate moving companies with which they’ve worked in the past. This will save you from dealing with fraudsters.
