Don’t Get Scammed! How to Avoid Shady Movers

Prepping for a move? Turn your scam detector on, kids. There are plenty of unethical moving outfits who are more interested in liberating you from your cash than delivering your possessions safe and sound.

Moving scam signs

Some of the signs are obvious. Poor phone manners should be a big red flag. A website that looks woefully out of date is another. Likewise, a general feeling that the movers are disorganized or lack experience shouldn’t be ignored. None is proof that a company is dishonest, but if your instincts say there’s something fishy, go with your gut.

Check the moving company

So, what steps can you take? You’ll want to check out a company’s reputation and its business licenses. Many moving scammers claim to be legit but are not legally registered. Also, make sure the company is willing to come to your home to do a visual inspection of the items you wish to move. If it gives you a quote over the phone without coming to see your stuff, that’s a bad sign.

There aren’t many sure-fire signs that a moving company isn’t on the level, but there is one. If the company demands that you pay in advance or provide an abnormally large portion of the payment before it actually does the move, that should set off alarm bells. Also, if they request for cash only it’s a possible sign that they don’t want a paper trail. Run the other way.

How to avoid a scams

But, like a lot of things related to moving, it comes down to common sense and doing a little homework. So, before you commit to a mover, ask around. Get references from close family and friends and see who they recommend. Also, check out websites and reviews. Make sure that they have a physical address listed and not just a post office box or city. If a company has a bad reputation, somebody will have written about it online. You don’t want to take a chance when it comes to your stuff. Do your research, and you’ll be far less likely to get burned by shady movers.