4 Ways To Protect Yourself Against Fraud When Hiring A Moving Company

If you are making a long-distance move, it doesn't make sense to undertake the entire move on your own. In addition to needing to drive a large truck with your belongings, you would also need to move your vehicles. When making a long-distance move, it is easier to allow movers to pack up your belongings and to drive them to your new home, while you drive your vehicles and smaller personal belongings that you don't want to put in the truck on your own.

When it comes to hiring a moving company, you want to make sure that you hire a certified moving company. Any respectable moving company will offer you an in-home moving estimate, provide insurance coverage, and have some sort of professional association.

Always Get an In-Home Estimate

Nowadays, most moving companies will offer you a rough estimate online after you answer a series of questions. However, any respected moving company is going to want to come out to your home in order to offer you a complete and full quote. A moving professional is going to be able to estimate the number of boxes and space you need a lot better than you will be able to at a glance, as this is what they do all day.

With an in-home estimate, they can note what furniture you have and make sure that they have the proper equipment to move and protect your furniture. They can also make note of any challenges that the moving team may face, such as stairs or a tight hallway. With an in-home estimate, you will get a more accurate quote based on your specific moving needs.

Before you sign a contract with a moving company, they should always come out and check out your stuff in person. Be wary of any moving company that only offers online or over the phone estimates.

Check on Insurance Coverage & Valuation

Next, you need to check on insurance coverage and valuation. If you are moving between states, the moving company is required by law to provide you with a certain level of protection based on a valuation level. This valuation level is often below the real replacement cost of all your belongings though, which is where an insurance plan comes into play. Any respected moving company will let you know the level of coverage they just provide as part of their service and will give you an opportunity to purchase additional coverage if you want to cover the rest of the value of your items.

Ask About Accreditation

Finally, when working with a moving company, ask what type of accreditation or memberships they hold. Moving companies that hold themselves to high professional standards are almost always members of professional associations or organizations, such as the Better Business Bureau, the American Moving & Storage Association, or other similar organizations. Additionally, they should have a valid license as a moving company from the Department of Transportation that they should be happy to share a copy of with you.

When you hire a moving company, do your research and make sure that you work with a respected moving company. There are a lot of great moving companies out there that want to work with you and pride themselves on offering moving and packing service in your area.