10 Ways to Spot a Mover
You Can Trust!
1. Call your local regulatory office to verify his license
Make sure the mover you are considering is duly licensed by your
state's Department of Transportation or other regulatory body as
required by law and that his certificate number is legitimate.
2. Check your local BBB about constant complaints
A responsible mover might have a few complaints lodged against him
but his record with the Better Business Bureau should show that he
responds to and resolves complaints.
3. Ask if he carries Worker's Compensation Insurance
Most state regulatory bodies require such coverage. This adds to the
cost of doing business but it protects you. Be suspicious of the very
low bidder for he may be cutting costs by cheating on this needed
protection.
4. Make sure his place of business really does exists
Paying a visit tells you something about the mover's integrity and
professionalism, for you can confirm that his place of business is
there. A few movers operate legitimately from a residential address. The
important thing is that he actually is located there and not using a
fictitious address to make you think he is.
5. Be wary of high-pressure tactics from telemarketers
This could be a ploy simply to get a sales person into your home to
give you an estimate. Be careful, do research and you decide who to
invite into your home, based on references.
6. Don't listen to sales personnel who tell stories
A high-quality firm with a good reputation doesn't need to knock the
competition, or to criticize other moving firms in an attempt to make
themselves look better.
7. Was the company listed in last year's Yellow Pages?
If not, it could be a legitimate new company. But it could also mean
the mover's DOT license was revoked and he's operating under a new name.
Some movers never advertise in the Yellow Pages.
8. You should be able to meet or talk to the owner
If you can talk to the owner of the business, even if only by phone,
you will be able to develop a feeling of confidence that he is
experienced and capable enough to assure a professional move.
9. It's a good idea to get a recommendation
A satisfied customer is the best sales pitch for a mover. Remember,
even a mover with a big franchised name is still a local business who is
only as good as his local reputation.
10. Ask if the company is a member of its local trade association
Most industry trade groups were formed years ago to build confidence
in their local industry's moving industry. It checks a mover's
certificate, workers' compensation insurance coverage and reputation
before accepting him as a member.
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