BBB | Greater MD warns local consumers to be aware of rogue movers this spring season. Moving is a tedious task that involves a vast amount of planning. A successful move is an attainable goal; however there are dishonest movers out there that take advantage of consumers who are not fully aware of their rights.
The scenario is common; rogue movers will take hold of the consumer's household goods and then demand more money for "services" that were never discussed in the original estimate. These services may include heavy lifting, packaging goods or stair climbing. Maryland Movers Conference, a non-profit, statewide organization working to promote the highest standards for the moving industry in Maryland, explains that if you have paid the mover 110% of the non-binding estimate or 100% of the binding estimate and the mover fails to deliver your goods, they have violated the Federal regulations for the protection of household goods shippers. BBB's advice - call the police.
Dishonest movers have been known in MD to shut down and open up shop under a new name, which makes it difficult for authorities to keep track of their activities. BBB is currently investigating two untrustworthy moving companies, believed to be operated by the same family. According to preliminary investigations these individuals appear to have hijacked the identity of two legitimate moving companies. The companies under investigation chose company and Web site names alarmingly similar to established movers. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration confirmed that only one of the two companies in question has a legal Department of Transportation license number.
Rogue movers can be hard to spot. They often give low-ball estimates over the phone or via the Internet without ever visiting your home or seeing the items you want to move. Always obtain estimate costs in writing and read all terms and conditions of the contract. If possible, have an agent visit your house to make an estimate on the total costs. If on moving day a rental truck arrives, rather than a company owned and marked fleet truck, do not agree to have your items loaded.
Angie Barnett, president & CEO President of BBB | Greater MD also stresses the importance of researching the company's Web Site, "There should always be a local street address listed for the moving company." Barnett adds, "Read the Web site thoroughly, if customer testimonials reflect experiences with a company called by a different name this could be a sign of a poor cut and paste job. Make sure the Web site's company information is consistent."
Start planning your move by reviewing BBB business reliability reports at www.bbb.org where you'll find objective information on area carriers and BBB Accredited Businesses. Also check BBB's general advice on Maryland laws regarding moving. Movers that perform interstate moves must be licensed by the US DOT. Check the agency's Web site at www.protectyourmove.gov. If you get a bad feeling about the mover's charges or tactics then move on. You always want to get at least three estimates on the move, the lowest price may not always be the safest deal. You can also visit MMC's Web site, www.mdmovers.org, for tips, general information on mover's rights and a list of qualified members of their Registered Movers program.