Planning a move in the near future?Moving can be a stressful experience.
Failure to choose a reputable moving company can ruin your move and wreak havoc in your life.
You've probably heard horror stories of people having their household goods held hostage by unscrupulous movers.
Last year alone the Better Business Bureau received over 8,400 complaints about moving companies.
You may be wondering how you can protect yourself and your family from falling victim to unethical and unprofessional moving companies.
Begin by thoroughly researching and interviewing several companies before deciding which company to hire for your move.
An estimator from a moving company should come to your home and give you a written in-home estimate after looking over the personal property you intend to move.
Your questions and concerns should be addressed at this time.
A reputable moving company will not give you a quote over the phone or via email.
Do not consider hiring a moving company until you have checked them out with the Better Business Bureau and your state regulatory agency.
Make sure they are licensed.
Anyone with a truck can call themselves a mover but only a highly rated professional company should be trusted with your possessions.
It's worth checking out the American Moving and Storage Association website at www.
moving.
org.
Their ProMover program puts consumers in touch with pre-screened movers.
Their website states that the ProMover program "helps consumers identify quality professional movers and gives assistance finding a mover, getting an estimate and understanding valuation and insurance.
"Movers in the ProMover program must have at least a satisfactory rating with the Better Business Bureau and be licensed.
Moving is not cheap.
An unrealistically low price quote should be a red flag.
The estimator should spend time with you questions and explaining the moving process if necessary.
Hiring an honest, professional company is far more important than saving a few bucks.