fbpx
Moving Scams: How to Spot Them
Moving can be stressful enough without having to worry about being scammed by a moving company. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous movers out there who prey on people who are in the midst of moving. To protect yourself from being scammed, it’s important to be aware of the red flags. Here are a few things to […]
Moving Scams: How to Spot Them
Moving can be stressful enough without having to worry about being scammed by a moving company. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous movers out there who prey on people who are in the midst of moving. To protect yourself from being scammed, it’s important to be aware of the red flags. Here are a few things to […]

0ab660ca-01a8-4093-81e9-fcae621e8754.jpg

Moving can be stressful enough without having to worry about being scammed by a moving company. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous movers out there who prey on people who are in the midst of moving.

To protect yourself from being scammed, it’s important to be aware of the red flags. Here are a few things to watch out for:

The mover or broker doesn’t perform an on-site inspection of your household items and gives an estimate over the telephone or online. A legitimate moving company will always come to your home to inspect your belongings and give you an accurate estimate.

The mover or broker doesn’t provide a written estimate or says they will determine the cost after loading. A written estimate is essential to protect yourself from hidden charges.

The moving company demands cash or a large deposit before the move. Legitimate moving companies will accept credit cards or checks.

The mover asks you to sign blank documents. Never sign blank documents. This could give the mover the opportunity to add hidden charges after the move.

The mover or broker doesn’t provide you with a copy of the Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move booklet and a copy of FMCSA’s Ready to Move brochure. These booklets contain important information about your rights and responsibilities as a mover.

The company’s website has no local address and no information about their registration or insurance. A legitimate moving company will have a physical address and be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

The mover claims all goods are covered by their insurance. This is not always true. Make sure you understand the terms of the mover’s insurance before you sign any contracts.

On moving day, a rental truck arrives rather than a company-owned or marked fleet truck. This is a red flag that the mover may not be legitimate.

The mover claims that you have more belongings than estimated. This could be an attempt to charge you more money.

If you see any of these red flags, it’s best to walk away from the moving company and find a more reputable one. You can check the FMCSA’s website to see if the company is registered and insured. You can also read reviews of the company online.

For more information, go to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website. Download our Moving Guide.

LIST OF BLOGS

Adams Walk HOA

History of Adams Walk HOA Incorporation and Development: Adams Walk Homeowners Association, Inc., was incorporated on May 17, 1984, according to Bizapedia records. This places its establishment during a period when suburban growth was significant across Northern...

Accotink Bluff Estates Homeowners Association

History of Accotink Bluff Estates Accotink Bluff Estates, nestled in the Springfield area of Fairfax County, Virginia, represents a community with a history tied to the broader development trends of Northern Virginia. The neighborhood, like many in Fairfax County, was...

Overview of Abbotts Wood Homeowners Association in Fairfax County

Comprehensive Overview of Abbotts Wood Homeowners Association in Fairfax County   Introduction to Abbotts Wood HOA Abbotts Wood Homeowners Association (HOA) is located within Fairfax County, Virginia, a region known for its diverse community associations...

Overview of Apartments at Regents Park

Overview of Apartments at Regents Park Location and Accessibility: Address: 9333 Clocktower Pl, Fairfax, VA 22031, USA Proximity to Public Transit: The complex is notably close to the Vienna Metro Station, making it an ideal spot for those commuting into Washington...

Annandale Acres HOA in Fairfax County

Overview of Annandale Acres HOA Location and Community: Annandale Acres is situated within the Annandale Census Designated Place (CDP) in Fairfax County, Virginia. The community consists of approximately 120 single-family homes spread across 150 acres. It was...

What is an HOA Contingency and how does it work

An HOA (Homeowners Association) inspection contingency in Virginia real estate is a contractual clause that allows buyers to review the governing documents and financial health of a homeowners association before finalizing the purchase of a property. Here's how it...

A home inspection contingency what it entails and how it’s used

A home inspection contingency in real estate transactions in Virginia is a clause in the purchase agreement that allows buyers to conduct a thorough examination of the property before finalizing the purchase. Here's a summary of what it entails and how it's used:...

What is an Appraisal Contingency in Real Estate

An appraisal gap contingency in real estate transactions in Virginia is a clause included in a purchase agreement that addresses the scenario where the home's appraised value comes in lower than the agreed purchase price. This contingency protects buyers by allowing...

RECENT POSTS

Adams Walk HOA

History of Adams Walk HOA Incorporation and Development: Adams Walk Homeowners Association, Inc.,...

ABOUT  TWENTY
THREE HOMES

The Twenty Three Homes are one of the premiere real estate groups locally, nationally and internationally, specifically dealing with high-end properties and exclusive clientele. Partner with Keller Williams Twenty Three Homes are full service real estate experts whose clients benefit from the custom tailored, hands on service while receiving all the exclusive amenities and resources of one of the most established and respected firms in the business.

GET IN TOUCH