According to the latest statistics, moving scams continue to be on the rise across the nation. However, the internet has made it much easier for you to find out whether the professional moving service you are thinking about hiring has a good reputation or if you should consider another company. You can use the web to check the company’s reputation with services like the Better Business Bureau, your local Chamber of Commerce, the International Association of Movers, and the American Moving and Storage Association. The best companies will have the logos of these organizations proudly displayed on their websites.
Once you have used the web to create your list of moving companies you might be interested in hiring, it’s time to start calling each professional moving service. If any of the people you call answer with nothing more than a simple “Hi or Hello,” move on. A reputable company will answer with their company name, for example, “Priority Moving!”
If the company you call tells you there is fee for them to come to your home to give you an estimate, this is another sign that you are probably being scammed. Any reputable moving company will offer free estimates, this gives them a chance to get to know you and for you to get to know them.
In order for a moving company to give you an accurate estimate, you need to provide them as much information about your move as you can. But, in order to avoid being scammed into paying more, be sure ask how they charge and what if any extra charges might show up on your final bill. Some companies charge by the mile, the weight of your load, or how much space your load takes up in their truck.
Extra charges you could see on your bill could include a charge for any extra trucks they need or if they have to use several small trucks due to the location of your new home. Do they tack on extra fees for steep hills, narrow roads, having to plan around busy traffic hours? Then if you add anything after the initial estimate, you can expect to pay more. Remember, you don’t pay your final bill until after your goods have been delivered. If any of the movers you are considering ask for you to pay up front, your chances of being scammed are high.
You are going to be trusting the company you choose with everything you own. Be sure you know up front who will be liable for any damages. When you let the pros do the packing, everything should be covered by their liability insurance. If you do the packing you need to know who will be liable, should any damages occur. If you are looking for a professional moving service you can count on to be with you every step of the way, contact Priority Moving at (858) 256-4808 and let our pros take care of your next move.