What Are Moving Scams?

Considering the many complaints the Better Business Bureau (BBB) receives each year, it’s no wonder that consumers often ask themselves, "What are moving scams?" Moving scams involve moving companies that defraud consumers. Although there are different variations of moving scams, generally, the object is to take your money without providing the service they promised.

Excessive charges. One variation of the scam involves the mover charging you much more than the original quote. As stated on the Better Business Bureau’s website, there have been cases where the movers refuse to deliver the person’s belongings and demand up to thousands of dollars in order to unload the truck. For instance, you may receive a quote for $2,500, but the mover demands $4,000 at the time of delivery.

Missing or never delivered belongings. Consumers may never receive their possessions, or some of their belongings may be missing at the time of delivery. What’s worse, the moving company may do little or nothing at all to resolve the matter making this a very frustrating scam.

Blank contract. Never sign a blank contract. There are reports of consumers who received a blank contract and the movers refused to pack their belongings until they signed the document. Once they signed the contract, the mover always found a reason to double the fee.

Due to the numerous horror stories involving moving companies, people often choose to sell all their belongings and start over again. Nonetheless, if you decide to hire a moving company, avoid moving scams. Research the company and confirm that they are who they say they are.