If you are moving, beware of possible dishonest, unlicensed moving companies

Following a few simple rules when selecting a mover will go a long way toward protecting yourself from being victimized by scams this moving season. The Better Business Bureau and American Moving & Storage Association recommend during your homework before selecting a mover.

As we approach the busiest time of the year for changing addresses, the BBB encourages consumers to know their rights — and the red flags of moving scams. Every year the BBB and the moving association receive thousands of complaints from consumers who have fallen prey to dishonest and often unlicensed moving companies. In a too-frequent, worst-case scenario, the moving company holds the customer's belongings hostage and requires potentially thousands of dollars to unload the van.

Anyone can claim to be a mover so checking a mover's credentials is critical. It’s also easy to do by starting with the BBB. Know your rights and know your options, but more importantly do your homework before turning your precious belongings over to a mover.

The BBB and moving association offer the following checklist for finding a trustworthy moving company:

▪  Research the company thoroughly. While state regulations vary, all interstate movers must, at minimum, be licensed by the federal government and are assigned a motor carrier number you can verify on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website, www.protectyourmove.gov. Also, check the company's rating with your BBB, which maintains more than 17,000 business reviews on movers across North America. In Georgia, all moves within the state are regulated by the Georgia Department of Public Safety, www.gamccd.net.

▪  Get at least three written in-home estimates. Not all price-quotes online or over the phone are legitimate. Keep in mind that the lowest estimate can sometimes be an unrealistic low-ball offer, which can cost you more in the end.

▪  Know your rights. Research your rights as a consumer with either FMCSA for interstate moves, the GDPS for intrastate moves or the state in which you reside for moves within that state. Also, enlist the help of the BBB or local law enforcement if the moving company fails to live up to its promises or threatens to hold your belongings hostage. FMCSA requires interstate movers to offer arbitration to help settle disputed claims.

▪  Consider getting full value protection. It may cost a few dollars more up front, but it can provide some peace of mind and eliminate a headache after your move. Investing in full replacement value protection means any lost or damaged articles will be repaired or replaced or a cash settlement will be made to repair the item or to replace it at its current market value, regardless of age. It’s important to note that the required minimum coverage of 60 cents per pound would not cover the replacement cost, for example, of a flat panel TV if damaged in transit.

Most moves can go off without a hitch by ensuring that you use trustworthy moving companies you have researched beforehand. For more consumer news you can trust, and to check out a mover near you, visit www.bbb.org.

This story was originally published May 1, 2017 at 4:01 PM with the headline "If you are moving, beware of possible dishonest, unlicensed moving companies."