It's sad but true: Anyone could be a victim of a moving scam. Scammers take advantage of people who need a moving company to assist them in the relocation of their home and do not do the proper research to ensure the company is legitimate.
There are several signs that will alert you of a moving scam and there are also ways you can avoid getting scammed yourself. After reading this article, you should have no problem identifying trouble before it is too late!
1) You Cannot Find Much Information Online
If a company is hiding all of their information online or it is difficult to find addresses or reviews, it is highly likely that they are trying to scam you. Moving companies that are transparent and want their customers to know that they are a safe and reliable company would not hide any information about themselves online. If the company does not want to be found, it is a big sign that it is a scam.
2) The Company Will ONLY Provide Estimates by Phone
If the moving company will only provide you with pricing estimates over the phone, you may be dealing with a moving scam. Speaking with a company representative face-to-face (or even through email) is a much better option in comparison.
If they refuse to do either of those and only want to conduct business over the phone, it might be time to hang up and consider hiring a different company!
3) The Bid Is Suspicious
If you feel like the price you are given is too good to be true or lower than the other companies in your area, the odds are good that it is exactly that. Through some research, you will know how much a typical move is going to cost with both labour and equipment, so there will be times when you can’t help but shake your head at what scammers are quoting for a price. Oftentimes the lowest price does not equal the best option for your move, so ensuring that you are being quoted something that is both realistic and fair is key in making sure you avoid being scammed by a non-reputable company.
4) The Company Has Gone Through Several Name Changes
A company constantly changing its name is a sign that they are trying to get away from a bad reputation. This means that this is also a sign that they have scammed others in the past and do not want to be held accountable for their actions and running away from negative reviews and further action. Not only that, but it also means that this company will very likely try to do it again!
The name of a company is a vital part of its brand. Constantly changing the company name as though it did not matter is a sure sign that the business is scamming people whenever the opportunity arises. You would be surprised to see how many moving companies are simply scammers trying to take people’s hard-earned money and then disappear.
5) The Company Insists That Your Insurance Will Pay for Everything
Did a moving company that you have been in contact with tell you that your insurance provider will keep you covered and pay for the entire moving process? Insurance companies certainly do not cover moving expenses, and anybody who tries to convince you otherwise is likely going to scam you (or at least attempt to).
Insurance companies are not known for their generosity, and if a representative tells you that they will cover the cost of the moving service, you should immediately be on alert and start looking for a different moving company.
Contact a Safe Moving Company Today!
Macho Movers provides homes and businesses across Southern Ontario (and beyond) with safe, reliable, and affordable premium moving solutions. We know how stressful moving can be, and we want to make it easier for you.
Macho Movers’ helpful team of professional movers is waiting to show you how a real moving company gets the job done! Our friendly, experienced staff are highly trained and make the moving process as smooth and efficient as possible.
Give us a call at 519-830-4974 or fill out our contact form on our website if you have any questions or if you want to book your move!
