Taking the Hassle Out of a Big Summer Move
BBB Offers Advice for Choosing a Moving Company
Austin, TX – June 25, 2009 - Planning a move can be very challenging and stressful. While most moving companies treat their customers fairly, there are some who take advantage of consumers by engaging in dishonest practices. For those getting ready to relocate, Better Business Bureau recommends doing some advance legwork to save on frustration and possibly money.
The Low Estimate Pitch:
Some moving companies deliberately give consumers a low estimate for the cost of their services. The consumer agrees to the price, but on moving day, the company revises their estimate to a much higher price. The consumer is left with no time to find another company on short notice and ends up going with the higher price.
BBB advises consumers to be wary if a moving company offers to give them an advance estimate without viewing their home or the items which will be moved. Most reputable companies will conduct an on-site visit so they can offer consumers a better approximate moving estimate. These estimates should be in writing and can be binding (the mover guarantees the price prior to the move) or non-binding (the mover estimates the price and provides final charges after the shipment is weighed).
To assist movers in calculating a moving cost, consumers should show them every item to be moved including the contents of the attic, basement and garage. BBB warns consumers to be careful if the moving company requires a large up-front cash deposit.
The Hostage Scam:
Unfortunately some moving companies have engaged in holding a consumer’s items and refusing to deliver them until a higher rate is paid. With their belongings already loaded and locked in the company’s truck, consumers feel forced to pull out their wallets.
By Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulation, consumers are not required to pay any amount above a binding estimate given to them by a moving company. Any additional charges that a consumer may build up are billed to them within 30 days of the delivery of their items. Other rights consumers have should be in their copy of “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” which must be provided to them by law for all interstate (across state lines) moves. The pamphlet has instructions on what to do if a consumer’s belongings are damaged or lost during the move.
BBB wants to make sure consumers are well prepared when the time comes for them to make the big move. The following tips should be considered before enlisting the services of a moving company.
Planning:
Consumers should start planning their move at least six to eight weeks before their targeted moving date. Ask friends or neighbors to recommend companies they have been happy with for past moves and check out each company’s record with BBB. The eQuote service on BBB’s Web site is designed put consumers in touch with trustworthy BBB Accredited Businesses who can provide quick estimates on moving. Consumers just have to inform them of their destination and time of move.
Take Inventory:
Consumers should make an inventory to go over with their mover before packing begins. Make sure all copies are legible and that all items are numbered, listed and described correctly to avoid confusion.
Insurance:
The minimum coverage required by law to cover moving liability for a consumer is $0.60 per pound per article and is usually included in an estimate. Consumers can obtain additional liability protection, at an extra charge, from their mover. Keep in mind that some movers will not accept liability for breakage to "owner-packed" items or they may require that the driver inspect the cartons. Consumers should also ask their mover for proof of workers compensation coverage and call the insurance company to verify the coverage.
Who to Contact:
If a consumer feels they are a victim of a moving scam, in addition to contacting BBB, they can file a complaint with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) if their move was within the state of Texas. If the move is across state lines, complaints can be made to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). To review the reliability report of a moving company, visit www.bbb.org.