You know when you’re moving. You know where. But do you know the answer to this question: Who? Who will be packing and shipping your belongings? If you haven’t chosen a moving company yet, I encourage you to read on for some valuable information that could save you money, as well as the headache and heartache that hiring a disreputable, unprofessional, or downright dishonest mover will bring.
Caught in the InterNET!
Start your search online, but don’t end it there. Visit to www.movingscam.com to get the lowdown on the tricks of the trade and some very specific advice about moving contracts and your rights. But then, get offline and on the phone, as Internet-based moving scams abound. Ask friends, relatives, and others you trust for recommendations. And ask your real estate agent for suggestions too.
Companies you consider should have an office in your area and must have been in business for at least 10 years. Have them come to your home to give you an estimate and make sure they won’t be sub-contracting your job out. While they’re at your home, be sure to get all of the following information:
- Full company name and any DBA names
- Number of years in business
- Company address
- Phone numbers (local and toll-free)
- DOT and MC license numbers
- Company web site address
- Email addresses
- Get references (and call them)
Once you’ve got your estimates and the information above, head back to movingscam.com where you can follow step-by-step instructions on how to use that data.
Don’t Go for Brokers
No matter which company you choose, NEVER hire a moving or household goods broker. Consumer protection laws do not apply to them and they’re objective is to get the HIGHEST bid (not the lowest) for your job. How do you know if the company in question is a broker. Easy. Ask! And if the answer is yes, move on.
For more tips about dealing with movers, be sure to read my next blog in which I tell you what to do if your mover makes a wrong move.
Lara
Lara Taylor – Realtor/Broker
704-200-8835
Twitter – @AskForLara
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