Know Some of the Red Flags When Planning Your Interstate Move

When planning to hire a mover, many dishonest moving companies (also known as household goods carriers and brokers) are trying to steal your money and possibly your household goods.

 Do not hire them if they give you a lowball estimate sight unseen over the phone. You should get an on-site or virtual estimate and ask many questions. Ensure the moving company provides a written estimate and do not sign any blank documents.

 It is a federal regulation that the moving company provides you with a copy of the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet and a copy of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s “Ready to Move Brochure”.

 One of the most popular red flags is on moving day a rental truck arrives rather than a company-owned or marked truck. They also tend to claim that you have more belongings than estimated.

 The most common warning sign is once your household goods are on the moving truck, the movers will demand more money before they unload. The so-called movers will hold your goods hostage and force you to pay more.

If any of the above happens to you, it’s always best to send them away and not risk losing money and your personal belongings.

Don’t let scammers burst your bubble! The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration offers free resources and tools to help prepare for your move and to protect yourself from moving fraud. https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move

 If you have any questions or concerns about your next move, you can contact New Jersey Warehouse and Movers Association – njmovers.com