Trustworthy Movers

As I wrote in my previous post, I hope I can save you from getting scammed by a rogue mover. If you aren’t careful, your move can turn into a nightmare. Here are more safeguards you should know before you hire a mover.

Before a reputable mover quotes you a price, he will come to your home and see exactly what you plan to move. Shipping costs are based on size and weight, and walking through your home is the only way to accurately assess costs and give you a fair price. Reject any mover who wants to give you a firm price, sight unseen, whether over the phone or internet.

I recommend getting estimates from three different companies. Ask the representative before he or she comes to your home if their company will be doing the move themselves. If they plan to subcontract your move to another company, scratch them off your list.

When the representative comes to perform the estimate, it’s your chance to ask questions. How do they determine price? How much insurance is included? What is their policy on hiring? Do they check the background of the people who work for them?

Find out about the company. What is its official business name? Does it do business under any other names? Ask how long the company has been in business and where it is located. Ask for names of two or three customers and then call those customers and ask them if they would use the mover again.

Get the contact information phone number, website address, and an email address you can direct questions to. Most representatives carry a mobile phone and are glad to provide their personal contact information. It’s good salesmanship.

Also get the mover’s DOT and MC license numbers. Later, go online to SaferSys.org and verify the mover meets the legal requirements for license and insurance.

Here are a few other pointers:

  • Never hire a mover who gives you a quote based on cubic feet.
  • Never sign blank paperwork, or paperwork that hasn’t been fully explained.
  • Read the document, understand it, and don’t worry about inconveniencing the representative with questions. It’s their job to answer your questions.
  • If a representative can’t explain things to your satisfaction, or if they seem evasive, scratch that company off your list.

And remember, if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Especially when it comes to low, low prices.