How to Hire Interstate Movers Without Getting Ripped Off
If you’re planning to move out of state, there are some tips that you should follow to avoid getting ripped off. A great way to start is by finding a company that has a website with information on their services. You also want to make sure that they have the proper insurance and can do all of the work you’re asking them to do. Lastly, you should file a complaint with the American Trucking Association.
Find company information on a mover’s website
Moving can be an expensive endeavor. You want to make sure that you get the best deal possible. But you don’t want to fall prey to a moving scam. Before you sign on the dotted line, you need to know how to find company information on a mover’s website.
The first step is to make a list of all the services you need. Once you’ve compiled a list, it’s time to call around. Be careful not to get into the trap of simply accepting the first price quote that you get.
Make sure that you get a couple of estimates before you sign on the dotted line. It’s a good idea to ask for referrals. If you have a real estate agent, it’s a good idea to ask them to recommend a reputable mover.
Make sure you base your estimate on a weight calculation. This is a good way to determine if the moving company is truly the cheapest or not.
Check if a mover’s insurance covers everything
A moving company will say that they have insurance, but what does that mean? You need to know what type of coverage you are getting, and how much it costs. If you don’t understand how it works, you could end up putting yourself at financial risk.
There are several kinds of coverage available, and each state has different requirements. Before you sign on the dotted line, you should make sure you’re getting the policy that covers everything. Depending on the mover you choose, you may get more than the standard homeowner’s insurance.
For example, you can get full value protection, which can cover damaged items, lost goods, or even repair costs. This type of coverage is usually much more expensive than basic liability. Luckily, most movers offer at least some level of it, so you can rest easy.
Full value coverage can vary widely, depending on the mover, the items you’re moving, and the deductible you’re willing to pay. The cheapest full value policy is likely to cover about 50 percent of your belongings.
Avoid paying cash when hiring a mover
If you have planned a long distance interstate move, you need to be cautious about paying cash. It is not advisable, as there are scams that involve moving companies demanding large amounts of cash up front.
Avoid these kinds of scams by researching moving companies and making sure they are licensed. You also need to ask for references and recommendations. Remember to always get everything in writing.
You also need to understand how the mover is liable for your goods. Make an inventory of your household items. This will include the amount of boxes you will need, the condition of furniture, and the number of movers you will use.
The best way to avoid overpaying for your move is to get three estimates. Be sure to compare the prices of the moving companies, and choose a company that offers full value replacement liability insurance.
In order to get a fair estimate, you must ask the moving company to weigh your shipment. Rogue movers often prefer to give you an estimate in cubic feet, but volume is more susceptible to manipulation than weight.
File a complaint with the American Trucking Association
If you’ve hired Interstate Movers, you may want to file a complaint with the American Trucking Association. This is a nonprofit trade association that represents the trucking industry and protects consumers. They offer arbitration services and accept complaints about shipments that are not handled properly.
The American Trucking Association offers members a code of ethics. Members must comply with this code, which includes providing accurate and complete information. It also ensures high standards for service and protection of consumers.
ATA members include local delivery services, for-hire carriers, privately owned truckload carriers, and publicly owned carriers. The ATA reports that its members have 813,440 private fleets, 91.5% of which are smaller owner-operators with less than 20 trucks.
FMCSA is the US Department of Transportation, which is responsible for regulating the moving industry. For the most part, there are two types of estimates. You can choose either a non-binding estimate, which is not enforceable, or a binding estimate, which is enforceable.