Avoid a Moving Nightmare
Buyer Beware of These 9 Red Flags
A move is definitely no small task, and you want seamless, not nightmare. When you’re transporting a lifetime of belongings or the business assets that represent all your hard work, you need a mover to relocate you with efficiency and care.
The New Jersey Warehousemen & Movers Association have highlighted the dangers of using unlicensed movers and how to stay safe when planning a move:
Video courtesy of NJWMA
Before Signing
The best way to avoid a moving nightmare is to research companies before signing on the dotted line.
For starters, be mindful of these red flags:
- The moving company says it doesn’t have to complete a site survey to provide an estimate.
- A rep from the moving company gives you a price on the phone or in an email. But here’s the important point: If it’s not on an official estimate form it’s not a written estimate—and that means it doesn’t hold water.
- The moving company asks for a large deposit.
- The moving company does not display a physical address on their website.
- When answering the phone, the moving company uses a generic name like “Movers”.
After Signing
If you’ve already hired a moving company, watch out for these troublesome signs. You may still have recourse:
- The moving company is not listed with the Department of Consumer Affairs or the Better Business Bureau.
- The moving company did not provide this required brochure: “Important Notice to Consumers”.
- Take a few minutes to check their reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook, etc. It could pay dividends.
- On moving day, the moving company arrives in an unmarked truck.
Don't Be a Victim
Use a Licensed Mover. It Matters.
Don’t let the excitement of your move blind you from this important fact: You could be a victim.
The fact is there are far too many unethical and unlicensed movers in the market place, and employees of these companies prey on unsuspecting consumers, especially at the height of the busy summer moving season. These folks come into your home or office, load all your things onto a truck and then drive away. You’re left trusting that your belongings will be delivered on time, in good condition—and at the agreed upon price.
The good news is New Jersey law establishes the criteria with which moving companies must operate to be licensed. These include minimum insurance coverage, fitness standards, uniform contract requirements and claims procedures.
Licensed moving companies are tax-paying companies that provide jobs and obey the law.
Regulation of household goods movers helps protect you. It’s important you do your part, too. Hire a licensed mover.
