Moving to a new home is already stressful as is, but there are instances when it becomes more stressful for others because of moving-related scams and frauds. Fortunately, there are several indicators that you can look out for to avoid scams or booking moves with fraudulent moving companies.
Here are some of the most common moving scams or frauds you need to look out for
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Hidden Fees
Many rogue movers are known for adding undisclosed fees for different aspects of the move including climbing stairs, heavy lifting, and packing at the last minute, putting pressure on clients to accept the adjustments on the quote and pay for the additional fees. There are also instances when companies offer a package that includes services that you won’t be needing for your move or items that are tagged as miscellaneous.
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Suspicious Quotes
Quotes that indicate a price that is too cheap are already suspicious, especially for an interstate move. Whilst these ones look tempting, the quote provided may not have all the services that are crucial for your move and will only be added later on at a higher price for last-minute bookings. You also need to be careful of companies that offer a one-price-fits-all quote and quotes that are provided hastily without properly checking the items that will be taken during the move or without proper discussion of the moving details or requirements. These types of quotes often have undisclosed information or will require you to pay extra once your items are already loaded on the moving vehicle.
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Large Moving Deposits
Reputable moving companies won’t charge you or ask for huge amounts as a deposit to hold your chosen moving date. In most cases, less than 20% deposit is requested from clients. Scammers often use this as an excuse to charge large amounts and disappear with your money. If the company requested the amount is unreasonable, contact the company to ask for an explanation or just choose another moving company to be safe.
If you’re planning to hire local removalists for your next move, here are some tips on how you can avoid moving-related scams.
Get recommendations from family and friends
One of the best ways to avoid scammers and fraudulent moving companies is to ask your family or friends for recommendations. Aside from naming a company they have recently used, they can also provide additional feedback based on their experience with a certain company. If they recommend a good company, you can rest assured that you are making arrangements with a legitimate removalist.
Perform thorough research
Whether you haven’t received recommendations yet or you’ve found moving companies through advertisements, allot enough time to do some detective work on the company’s track record. If they have an online presence, check their website, social media accounts, and reviews provided by clients who have used their services in the past.
When possible, ask the companies for references who can verify that they provide the services advertised on their profiles. You can also ask them about their experience with the company, including the attitude of the staff when it comes to handling your belongings. You can also learn more about Sunshine Coast Removals services here.
Make proper documentation
For extra security, take pictures of your belongings before and after packing. If you have enough time, indicate the condition of your belongings (or at least the condition of high-value items) in your inventory. This will make it easier to detect any damages once your goods arrive in your new residence.
Proper documentation is not only helpful in processing insurance claims for missing items or damaged goods resulting from accidents during the move. It also works as your reference on what items you’ve taken and which containers they are packed in, making it easier to organise your belongings once they arrive in your new home.
In most cases, moving companies will perform their own documentation, but it helps to have your own copy to make sure that all parties involved are on the same page about the condition of your belongings, appliances, and furniture pieces.
