5 Moving Scams You Need to Know

In today’s world, people are out to make a quick buck even if that means taking advantage of others. These shady con artists stoop to any level to swindle you, especially when you’re most vulnerable. If you don’t want to be another victim when you’re moving, you should check out this list of moving scams that you might not know about.

1. Cubic Foot Price

Don’t allow a company to give you an estimate based on the amount of cubic feet of possessions you’re moving. When the company informs you that they’re going to measure the area of your stuff, they leave gaps in between the items, charging you more than what they should. It’s standard for a company to go to a certified weighing station, which has a very accurate scale. Always get a quote by weight and don’t hesitate to ask to go along with the movers when they weigh your items.

2. False Quote

You know to get an estimate before you hire a moving company, but with this scam, you’ll be given a false number. The company will come to your home to look over the inventory. They give you a quote based on these items. Magically, on moving day, they will tell you that they missed a room and you must pay a higher amount. To avoid this unpleasant surprise, make sure you go over the inventory covered in the estimate yourself and ask all your questions up front.

3. Additional Fees

Some moving companies give you a quote that seems very reasonable. Usually, it’s a bit cheaper than the competitors. After you hire the company, the movers will add extra fees that were never mentioned. While this is a common scam, the fees charged are becoming increasingly sneaky. For instance, you could receive a final bill with a fee for having to walk up steps or for having a fifth-floor apartment. Since these fees are forever changing, your best bet is to inquire about additional fees before you begin the process.

4. Moving Broker

A company comes in and gives you a fabulous quote and comes across as the ideal company for you. After you hire the company, a different company shows up on moving day. You’re not familiar with this company, so who knows what they’re going to do to your precious possessions. The best way to avoid moving brokers is to deal with local companies only.

5. Packing

While it’s a nice thought to have all of your items packed for you, it’s hard to trust a company to package your items properly so they don’t damage your stuff. However, some moving companies will inform you that you need more tape on certain boxes. They use an excessive amount, and then they bill you extra for the tape. This magic tape they use tends to cost you more than if you would have wrapped the box in platinum. It’s not uncommon for a moving company to tell you they’ll box a few items you missed, and they use “special” boxes, perhaps ones that are twice as thick, for items that don’t need additional packing. To avoid this scam, you must pack everything yourself. Double check to make sure you packed everything. And always have a spare roll of tape just in case something isn’t wrapped well enough. Moving is stressful enough. If you don’t want the headache of falling victim to a scam, make sure you research a company and check with the Better Business Bureau. It doesn’t hurt to keep a close eye on the company on moving day and come prepared with your own tape.