HOUSTON – Moving is one of the most stressful events people have to deal with at some point. Finding a reputable mover is no easy task with impostors out there trying to scam consumers.
Sandra Denny and David Denny are leaving their home of 30 years, reiring to Tennessee.
"She does the detective work and I sign off on it," David Denny said.
The Dennys didn't want to become victims of a rogue moving company before they get to their destination.
"That's why we wanted to go with a reputable company, a family-owned company," Sandra Denny said.
Beware before hiring a company online.
Chris Sorensen, a third-generation mover with Sorenson Moving and Storage Mayflower said the Internet is allowing dishonest companies to set up a scam.
"In a lot of areas, there are a lot of companies that are essentially a website and a rental truck," he said.
Websites can be deceptive. A side-by-side comparison shows subtle differences between the legitimate Local Mayflower website and a copycat.
"They're just quoting something over the phone and not really providing clear, concise pricing," Sorensen said.
Before the Denny's called Sorensen's company, they experienced the bad mover treatment from another company.
"They were supposed to come," Sandra Denny said. "They cancelled. They were supposed to call me back. (They) did not."
That's an obvious red flag.
But here are eight more tips so you don't get ripped off:
Ask for an in-home estimate: Since transportation charges are based on move distance and weight, companies should physically look at your belongings before providing you with an estimate.
Don't be hooked by the lowest price: get three separate estimates from three different moving companies. If one is significantly lower than the others, consider this a red flag.
Don't pay a deposit up front: Most companies only request payment at the time of delivery. If a company is insistent upon getting paid any amount of money prior to a move, it may be an indicator that you should select a different organization to handle your move.
Do your research and verify company affiliations: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration names all movers licensed for interstate moves at protectyourmove.gov. Some disreputable movers lure customers by using names similar to reputable companies. Check the reputable company's website to see if the mover is affiliated.
Go with a name you know: Find companies that have been in business for a while. A good milestone to go by is 10+ years.
Get a referral: Ask friends, family, neighbors and colleagues for recommendations to avoid selecting a company with a bad reputation.
Get it in writing: Get pickup and delivery dates in writing. This way, you will have written documentation if your move schedule is altered in any way.
Ask for a DOT-number: if they're not registered you can be sure they are playing by their own rules.
Know your rights: Federal law requires movers to give customers a copy of the "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move" brochure prior to an interstate move. Be insistent on receiving this brochure before your move, and take the time to read through it.