Confianca Van Lines - Things to Consider - Moving Fraud

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Things to Consider

Things to Consider:
Protect Yourself from Moving Fraud

Moving is a significant event in anyone’s life. More than 40 million Americans move each year for personal reasons and career opportunities. Your money, your memories are at stake. It can also be stressful, even under the best of conditions. Know how to avoid one of the most stressful situations that can take place; protect yourself from dishonest, "rogue" movers.
Realize that most moving companies are legitimate businesses that do excellent work. But in recent years, a growing number of complaints have been filed against interstate movers—and many of those complaints spring from the fraudulent practices of a small percentage of insincere movers known as rogue movers. It stands to reason that if we can teach you how to spot a rogue mover the odds that you will become a victim of one are greatly reduced. Fortunately, there are several rational steps you can also take to help ensure that you are choosing a reputable mover.

Moving Fraud Questions and Answers

Q. How do I learn more about choosing a mover?

A. Four ways we recommend:

1. Get a written estimate from several movers.

The estimate should be based on an inspection of your household goods.

2. Make sure the mover has insurance and is licensed by the proper authority.

For moves from one State to another, a U.S. DOT number is issued by the FMCSA. You can check a mover's license on www.protectyourmove.gov. For moves within a State, requirements 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 the cheapest price, you may be sacrificing other things that are actually more vital, such as getting your possessions moved and delivered on time. And remember, 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. Do your homework.

Read "Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move," a booklet from the Federal government that your mover is required to give you if you are moving from one State to another. This booklet also has information you'll 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 Better Business Bureau.

Q. What if I think a rogue mover has taken advantage of me?

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 intrastate move and an interstate 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 while state and local authorities have jurisdiction over intrastate moves.

Q. How do I insure my property when I hire a mover?

A. There are two options: valuation coverage and insurance. When you sign your bill of lading, the mover will automatically provides 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.