Clinton’s Transfer & Storage, Inc Provides Safe Moving Services
Moving is a stressful time; make sure it goes smoother by following these tips on spotting long distance moving scams. Know that you are receiving quality trustworthy service with Clinton’s Transfer & Storage, Inc. Call us today at (540) 552-3201 to schedule a safe long distance move. Whether you are moving locally or across the country, we can make sure your items get there safely.
Popular Moving Scams
- Refusal of delivery unless you pay an additional fee
- Offers a very low estimate, but then charges insurmountably more at the end
- “Weight Bumping,” or deliberately overestimating how much your items weigh in order to charge more
- Taking a deposit, not completing the work and/or stealing items
Red Flags to Watch Out For
The easiest way to avoid a moving scam is to hire a reputable company like Clinton’s Transfer & Storage, Inc. If you choose to work with another moving company, keep an eye out for the following red flags:
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Requiring Large Deposit Upfront and No Contract
Most moving companies will not require a deposit. While that doesn’t mean the company is automatically a scam, it is a red flag. Do not give any money to a company that does not do an in-home estimate and provides a written contract. You should never sign a blank contract or work off a “handshake deal.” Everything you discuss should be in writing and signed by both parties.
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Quote is Suspiciously Low or They Don’t Do a Walk Through Estimation
If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. The bait-and-switch scam is when the company initially offers you a low quote, and demand a huge price upon delivery. The scammers will claim that they didn’t know you had so much stuff or it took longer than expected. After receiving your final quote before moving day, the company should come see your home. Most people have more things than they think. No two homes, even if they have the same square footage, will have the same amount of items to move.
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Receiving Tons of Bad Customer Reviews
All companies have some bad reviews online. Online reviews in general tend to skew negative, because people are less likely to voice concerns over a good experience. However, legitimate customer reviews can give you some real insight. If a company has no reviews or a majority are negative, it’s best to stay far away.
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No Company Branding
Many moving company scams operate under multiple names. Answering the phone as, “Moving Company,” without clearly identifying their business is a red flag. These scammers will also be operating trucks without branding. Reputable moving companies don’t rent U-hauls.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Items in a Move
- Scour Google reviews, Yelp, Facebook, and the Better Business Bureau to look for red flags and complaints.
- Check with the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA)
- Keep all communication in writing
- Be present during the move
- Unpack in a timely manner to check items for damage or to notice anything missing
For more information on our long distance moving, give Clinton’s Transfer & Storage, Inc a call at (540) 552-3201. Follow us on Facebook for updates. We are happy to discuss more about spotting long distance moving scams.
