How To Detect Scam Movers

Spotting Rogue or Scam Movers: Protect Yourself

Detecting rogue or scam movers is crucial to safeguard your move. Here are some red flags to watch for:

1. Cubic Feet Quotes? Beware!
If the mover provides a quote based on cubic feet, be cautious. Legitimate movers should operate from a published tariff, as required by law. This tariff outlines all charges clearly. If they can’t specify the tariff, consider it a warning sign and look for another mover.

2. Ask About the Tariff
A legitimate mover should be able to tell you which tariff they are quoting from. If they can’t, it’s a reason to be skeptical.

3. Demanding Deposits
Standard movers typically don’t demand half the payment upfront. Requiring a large deposit is uncommon unless you have specific scheduling needs. Be cautious if this is demanded.

4. Suspiciously Low Estimates
If your estimated cost is significantly lower than quotes from major moving companies, be wary. While some variation in quotes is normal, if an estimate seems too good to be true, it likely is.

5. The Bait-and-Switch Tactic
Rogue movers often quote very low prices initially, appear professional and friendly, only to inform you on moving day that the cost is much higher due to unreported items. Be cautious of such tactics.

Protect yourself and your belongings by staying vigilant and choosing reputable movers with transparent pricing and a solid track record. Don’t fall victim to scams that can lead to unexpected costs and headaches on moving day.

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