WASHINGTON, May 3, 2024
/PRNewswire/ -- The American Trucking Associations and ATA Moving
and Storage Conference are marking National Moving Month and the
start of peak moving season by sharing tips to help consumers
select a reputable mover and avoid potential scams.
"With high housing prices and interest rates, moving 'on the
cheap' can seem like a smart way to save money," said MSC
Executive Director Ryan Bowley.
"But consumers should always contact at least three moving
companies, get estimates based on in-person or virtual surveys
instead of a phone call, and be wary of ultra-low or
'too-good-to-be-true' estimates."
Over 6,200 complaints were filed with the Federal Moter Carrier
Safety Administration's National Consumer Complaint Database in
2023. While most professional movers are reputable, Bowley said
following the "3 Rs" can help ensure
a successful move:
1) Recognize the qualities of a reputable mover and the
difference between a mover and a broker;
2) Research the moving companies you are considering and
only use registered movers;
3) Read key documents from the U.S. Department of
Transportation and all information provided by your mover.
In addition to the "3 Rs," Bowley said consumers should
visit moving.org, where they can look for reputable movers in their
area by searching the ProMover database for carriers who have
completed the certification program.
To help ensure a successful move, here are some additional tips
consumers can follow:
- Get at least three in-home estimates. Reputable movers
will want to see your home and your goods before telling you the
cost of a move, just like a professional contractor will want to
see your home before estimating the cost of a project.
- Research your moving companies. Interstate movers must
be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation and have a
DOT Number and the correct operating authorities. You can look them
up at ProtectYourMove.gov.
- Know your rights and obligations as a consumer. For
interstate moves, moving companies must provide you with two
documents: "Ready to Move?" and "Your Rights and Responsibilities
When You Move." Read these documents thoroughly and ask questions
if there is something you do not understand.
- Avoid large down-payments. While some movers may ask for
a small deposit to hold a date, any company who asks for large
deposits or full payment upfront – especially in cash or through a
service such as Venmo – should be avoided.
- Read all paperwork and never sign a blank document.
Professional movers ensure that all agreements between you and the
mover are in writing. Keep copies of all paperwork (either as
printouts or saved PDFs) for future reference, especially your bill
of lading, which is the contract between you and your mover.
- Understand the difference between a mover and a broker.
Brokers will book your move and then sell it to a different company
to do the actual move. Be wary that many scam companies operate as
Internet-only brokers without proper DOT registration – if you
cannot find them on ProtectYourMove.gov, this is a red-flag.
- Consider liability options and valuation. Know how
much your goods are worth and make an informed choice of liability
protections when booking your move. What you select will determine
what the mover will be responsible for in case of loss or damage.
Always take valuable documents and other items with you.
- Ask questions. Any reputable moving company knows that
moving, while exciting, can also be challenging, and they are happy
to assist in any way possible. If a company is unhelpful or refuses
to answer questions or take time to alleviate your concerns, look
for a different company that is more willing to assist.
American Trucking Associations is the largest national trade
association for the trucking industry. Through a federation of 50
affiliated state trucking associations and industry-related
conferences and councils, ATA is the voice of the industry America
depends on most to move our nation's freight. Follow ATA
on Twitter or Facebook.
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SOURCE American Trucking Associations' Moving & Storage
Conference