Buying and selling a home can be stressful. Once you’re ready to move,
the relief can leave you vulnerable to scams. Frankly, you’re so happy to be
“done” that you can overlook red flags in your excitement. To protect your
belongings and avoid extra costs or loss, learn the signs of scams when
moving.
The first step is to do your research. Always make sure the moving
company comes to physically inspect your belongings and gives you a firm
quote. Some companies may try to give you a quote based on the size of
your home or the number of bedrooms, then charge you more based on time or
weight. Do not hire these companies. A reputable company will spend the
time to come to your home.
Next, it’s critical to check references. Ask for local references and call them.
Online references and reviews can also be a good way to learn more about
service and their response to problems. Ask about how they handle
damage and check reviews for the insurance they offer. Ideally, you want a
third-party insurance company and you may even have coverage with your
own homeowner’s insurance.
Finally, get multiple quotes. Read the contracts carefully and make sure
you ask about anything that can change during the move, such as delay
fees, storage fees, or weight charges. Never make a large upfront payment
and most companies only require a small deposit at the time of the move.
It’s natural to relax after the close of a new home, but you can avoid moving
scams by staying vigilant and trusting your instincts. Ask about anything that
doesn’t make sense and check references. The lowest-cost provider is
likely low-cost for a reason.
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