Williamson County, TN

Has a moving company ever asked you for a cash deposit before your move? Was the company's Web site missing a local address or licensing information?

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, these are clues you could have been a target of moving scams or "rogue movers" who can turn the stressful event of moving into a complete disaster.

Moving scams are on the rise as consumers planning a move are increasingly turning to the Internet to find a mover.

Mayflower Transit, one of the nation’s largest and most recognized names in moving, has compiled this list of tips to help consumers choose a professional mover.

Do Your Research
Begin your search for a mover by asking your friends, relatives and business associates about movers they have used and liked. Use the phone book or contact a real estate agent to find at least three moving companies that have real offices (i.e., real addresses) in your area.

Check Them Out
If you are using the Yellow Pages, remember: just because a moving company has a large ad doesn’t necessarily mean it is reputable.Once you/ve made a list of prospects, contact the companies via phone to get the full company name, number of years in business, address and phone numbers, Web site and e-mail addresses, references and DOT and MC license numbers. Then go to SaferSys.org, an FMCSA Web site, and search for the company using the DOT and MC license numbers to see safety information, any orders to cease operation, licensing and other information. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer organizations in your local area.

Get An Estimate
Schedule at least two on-site estimates, which should be provided free of charge. A reputable mover WILL NOT give you an estimate over the phone.Don’t rely on a quote provided sight-unseen over the phone or over the Internet. When moving across state lines, your charge is based on the actual weight of your shipment and where you are moving from and to. You are better off meeting face-to-face with the mover’s representative to ensure that you both understand what is involved.

Get Specific
During the on-site estimate, be sure to show the representative everything that is to be moved. Don’t forget about the items in the basement or the major piece of furniture you have sent away for repairs.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The salesperson should also ask you questions – about your new home, the timing of your move, etc.

Inquire About “Valuation" Options
Valuation provides protection from loss or damage to your possessions. The valuation option you choose determines the basis upon which any claim will be adjusted and the maximum liability of the mover. The liability of a mover for loss or damage is based upon the mover’s tariffs, as well as federal laws and regulations, and has certain limitations and exclusions. Valuation is not insurance; it is simply a tariff-based level of motor carrier liability. Be wary of quotes that are substantially lower than the rest. “Low-ball” price quotes could result in significantly lower-quality service, or they could be an indication of a mover who plans to “up” the price in a moving scam.

Go With a Name You Know
There are plenty of quality “name” van lines to choose from. If you have never heard of a particular mover and you have no references from friends or business associates, be very careful! Don’t be swayed by a super-low price from an unknown firm; remember, you’re entrusting your mover with almost all of your personal possessions.

Choosing From Among Similar Estimates
If a mover wasn’t recommended by someone you know, ask for the names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. Then call them! Consider the attentiveness of the salesperson. Do you have confidence that he or she will be there to help you through planning, packing and loading? Take a drive past the mover’s office or warehouse. Does it reflect the level of quality and professionalism you expect in a service provider?

Plan In Advance
Make arrangements for your move well in advance – at least four to six weeks before the moving date. If at all possible, try not to move when everyone else wants to move. Throughout the year, the end of the month is a busy time for movers, because of the expiration of leases and preferred closing dates. The summer months – May to mid-September, when children are out of school – are “peak season” for movers. Schedule summertime moves as far in advance as possible...and again, try to stay away from month-end moving dates.