Confianca Van Lines - Things to Consider - Moving Fraud

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Things to Consider

Things to Consider:
Protect Yourself from Moving Fraud

Moving an entire company or bsuiness is a huge undertaking. Thousands of businesses go into panic mode when they realize the enormous logistics of moving their corporate offices, proparty and assets. Your money, your employees, your customers, your revenue, your expenses are at stake. It's stressful under the best of conditions. You should know how to avoid one of the most dangeous results that can occur, and how to protect yourself from dishonest, "rogue" movers.
Of course, most moving companies and van lines are legitimate businesses that do great work. But recently, a growing number of complaints have been filed against interstate movers. Many of those complaints arise from the fraudulent policies and practices of a small percentage of questionable movers known as rogue movers. If we can teach you how to identify a rogue mover, then the chances that your company will become a victim are greatly reduced. There are many solid steps you can take to ensure you are selecting a reputable mover.

Moving Fraud Questions and Answers

Q. What should our company do to identify a good mover?

A. We recommend four ways:

1. Get a written estimate from several movers.

The estimate should be based on a thorough inspection of your comapny's popery and assets.

2. Ensure the mover has insurance and is licensed by the proper authorities.

For moves from one State to another, a US DOT number is issued by the FMCSA. Check a particular mover's license on www.protectyourmove.gov. For moves within a State, requirements may differ, so you should check with your state, county or local consumer affairs agency or your State Attorney General.

3. Remember your priorities when choosing a mover.

If you hire a mover based solely on price, your company may be sacrificing other things that are actually more vital, such as getting your property and possessions moved and delivered on time. And don't forget, movers are required by the 110 percent rule to deliver your goods for no more than ten percent above the price of a non-binding estimate.

4. You must do your homework.

Read "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move," a booklet from the Federal government that your mover is required to give provide if your company is moving from one State to another. This booklet also has information your company will need if your goods are lost or damaged during the move. Check the mover's complaint history with local consumer sponsorship organizations, such as the BBB (Better Business Bureau).

Q. What if I suspect a rogue mover has taken advantage of our company?

A. Visit http://nccdb.fmcsa.dot.gov, or call 1-888-DOT-SAFT (1-888-368-7238) to file a complaint; your report could develop into part of a Federal investigation against the company. But remember that you should file a complaint directly with the mover before doing so with FMCSA.

Q. What is the difference between an interstate move and an intrastate move?

A. In an intrastate move, goods are transported from one point to another within the same State; (i.e., no state borders are crossed). An interstate move is one in which goods are transported from one State to another. FMCSA has jurisdiction over interstate moves, but state and local authorities have jurisdiction over intrastate moves.

Q. Can our company insure our property when we hire a mover?

A. Yes. You have two options: valuation coverage and insurance. When you sign your bill of lading, the mover will automatically provide valuation coverage, which assumes liability for no more than 60 cents per pound per item for interstate moves. They may also offer to sell or procure for you separate liability insurance from a third party insurance company. If you buy this insurance from or through your mover, the mover is required to issue a policy or written record of the purchase.