Moving can be a stressful experience, and unfortunately, it’s an opportunity that fraudulent movers often exploit. By understanding the common moving frauds and learning how to protect against moving fraud, you can ensure a smoother, safer relocation process. The U.S. Moving Protection Organization (USMPO) is dedicated to providing resources to help you navigate your move with confidence.
Recognizing Common Moving Frauds
One of the most prevalent moving frauds involves rogue movers who give lowball estimates to lure customers in. Once the belongings are loaded onto the truck, these movers demand exorbitant fees, holding your possessions hostage until you pay up. This scam, known as a hostage load scam, is unfortunately common.
Another frequent fraud is the bait-and-switch scheme. In this scenario, movers provide a quote based on false promises, then charge additional fees for services that were supposedly included. For instance, they might charge extra for packing materials, stairs, or long carries, none of which were disclosed upfront.
Finally, some fraudulent movers simply vanish with your belongings. They load everything onto their truck and disappear, leaving you with nothing but a bitter experience.
How to Protect Against Moving Fraud
The best way to protect against moving fraud is through diligent research and preparation. Start by verifying the legitimacy of the moving company. Check the verified carrier’s directory of USMPO . Look for reviews and ratings.
Always get written estimates from at least three different movers. Ensure these estimates are binding, meaning the price quoted is the maximum you’ll pay. Avoid movers who demand a large deposit or cash upfront, as this is a red flag.
Additionally, use a credit card for your payment, as this offers some level of protection in case of fraud. Finally, trust your instincts. If something feels off about the mover, it probably is.
The USMPO’s List of Verified Movers
The U.S. Moving Protection Organization offers a comprehensive list of verified movers, ensuring you can choose a reliable company with confidence. These movers have been thoroughly vetted for their legitimacy, professionalism, and customer satisfaction. By selecting a mover from this list, you significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to moving fraud.
| COMPANY NAME | RATING & REVIEWS | DOT # |
|---|---|---|
| Allied | View Company Profile | 76235 |
| All My Sons Moving and Storage | View Company Profile | 904955 |
| International Van Lines | View Company Profile | 2293832 |
| JK Moving Services | View Company Profile | 1065394 |
| Suddath Relocation Systems | View Company Profile | 425402 |
| Wheaton | View Company Profile | 70719 |
| Bekins Moving Solutions | View Company Profile | 2256609 |
| Solomon and Sons | View Company Profile | 488466 |
| Atlas Vanlines | View Company Profile | 125550 |
| Mayflower | View Company Profile | 125563 |
| United Vanlines | View Company Profile | 77949 |
| Coleman American Moving Services | View Company Profile | 148986 |
| Safeway Moving Inc | View Company Profile | 3756000 |
| BLVD Moving | View Company Profile | 2892909 |
| MiniMoves® | View Company Profile | 526036 |
Virtual In-Home Survey
USMPO’s virtual in-home survey is another valuable tool designed to protect consumers. This service allows you to receive accurate moving estimates without the need for an in-person visit. By conducting the survey virtually, you can ensure that the inventory of your belongings is accurately assessed, leading to more precise quotes. This minimizes the risk of unexpected charges on moving day, as the movers will have a clear understanding of what needs to be transported.
-
Use this app to easily document your
belongings in the moving industry format
-
Share your inventory with your choice
of movers to get personalized quotes.
-
Get the best price & make sure you
get a big enough truck!
USMPO’s Registration Initiative
The USMPO’s registration initiative was created to hold movers accountable to their quotes and to monitor carrier performance. This initiative ensures that moving companies adhere to their promised prices and services, providing consumers with a reliable moving experience. By registering with USMPO, movers agree to transparency and fairness, which protects you from the bait-and-switch schemes common in the industry. Additionally, this initiative helps optimize consumer safety by keeping track of movers’ performance and ensuring they maintain high standards.
Conclusion
Moving fraud is a serious issue, but by staying informed and utilizing the resources provided by the U.S. Moving Protection Organization, you can protect yourself from becoming a victim. Understanding common moving frauds and knowing how to protect against moving fraud are crucial steps in ensuring a safe and successful move. Remember to verify movers, get binding estimates, and utilize tools like the USMPO’s list of verified movers, virtual in-home surveys, and registration initiative. With these precautions in place, you can embark on your move with peace of mind, knowing you are well-protected.
