Moving to a new place is an exciting experience, but it can also be a daunting task, especially when it comes to finding a trustworthy moving company. Unfortunately, not all moving companies are legitimate, and some may scam you. Therefore, it is essential to do your due diligence before hiring a moving company to ensure your belongings arrive at your new home safely. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to check if a moving company is legitimate.
1. Check the Moving Company’s Credentials
The first step in checking if a moving company is legitimate is to verify its credentials. The following are the two primary credentials you should check for:
Licensing
Ensure that the moving company you are considering is licensed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and has a valid U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number. A licensed moving company is required to comply with federal regulations, and you can file a complaint against them if necessary.
Insurance
The second credential to check is the moving company’s insurance. A legitimate moving company should have both liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Liability insurance will cover any damages to your property during the move, and workers’ compensation insurance will cover any injuries that may occur to the movers while on the job.
2. Research the Moving Company
After verifying the moving company’s credentials, the next step is to research the company. The following are some ways to do so:
Check the Company’s Website
Visit the moving company’s website and ensure that it has a physical address, phone number, and email address. Also, check if the website looks professional and up-to-date.
Read Online Reviews
Read online reviews of the moving company on various review sites, including Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Look for any red flags, such as frequent negative reviews or complaints about lost or damaged items.
Check the Company’s Rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Check the moving company’s rating with the BBB to see if they have any complaints against them. The BBB rates companies on a scale of A+ to F, and any company with a rating below B should be avoided.
3. In-Person Assessment
The final step in checking if a moving company is legitimate is to assess them in-person. The following are some things to do when meeting with the movers:
Request a Written Estimate
Request a written estimate from the moving company that includes all costs and fees. A reputable moving company will provide you with a written estimate and explain any charges that you may not understand.
Meet with the Movers
Meet with the movers who will be handling your belongings and assess their professionalism and experience. Reputable moving companies will have trained and experienced movers who will handle your belongings with care.
Remember to verify the moving company’s credentials, research their reputation, and assess them in-person before making a final decision. By doing so, you can have peace of mind knowing that your move is in good hands.
If you are still unsure about a moving company’s legitimacy or have any questions, do not hesitate to ask them. Reputable moving companies will be happy to answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
FAQs
- What should I look for in a moving company’s credentials?
- You should verify that the moving company is licensed by the FMCSA and has a valid USDOT number. Additionally, the company should have both liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance.
- How can I research a moving company’s reputation?
- You can read online reviews on various review sites such as Google, Yelp, and the BBB. You can also check the company’s rating with the BBB and see if they have any complaints against them.
- What should I do during an in-person assessment?
- During an in-person assessment, you should request a written estimate that includes all costs and fees. You should also meet with the movers who will be handling your belongings and assess their professionalism and experience.
- How can I ensure that my belongings are safe during the move?
- You can ensure that your belongings are safe during the move by hiring a reputable moving company with trained and experienced movers. Additionally, you can purchase moving insurance to protect your belongings in case of loss or damage.
- What should I do if I suspect a moving company is a scam?
- If you suspect a moving company is a scam, do not hire them. Instead, report them to the FMCSA and BBB and consider filing a complaint with your state’s attorney general’s office.