How to Avoid Long-Distance Moving Scams

As a co-owner of Move Logistics Inc. in San Antonio, Texas, a city renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture, I fully understand the excitement and stress of planning a long-distance move. Arranging your move can be as detailed and intricate as planning a visit to the Alamo itself, but unfortunately, the moving industry hosts its share of unscrupulous operators. Just as one would exercise caution when strolling the bustling River Walk, it’s essential to safeguard against potential long-distance moving scams.

Here are a few practical tips to ensure you have a safe and seamless move:

1. Research and Verify:
When scouting for a reputable moving company, thorough research is your best ally. Just as visitors to San Antonio check Tripadvisor reviews for the best Tex-Mex spots, so should you check credentials. Start with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website, where you can verify if the moving company is registered with a USDOT number. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) provides another trustworthy resource to check company ratings and consumer complaints.

2. Request an In-Person Estimate:
Be wary of companies that only offer quotes over the phone or online without seeing your belongings. Much like the detailed presentations at the San Antonio Museum of Art, a moving company should offer an in-depth, in-person estimate. This not only provides a more accurate quote but also gives you a chance to assess the company representatives and their professionalism.

3. Watch for Red Flags:
Notice warning signs that could indicate a scam. For example, if the company demands a large cash deposit upfront or quotes extremely low prices that seem too good to be true, they probably are. In the spirit of prudent planning akin to selecting a seat for a performance at The Majestic Theatre, choose a company that asks for a reasonable deposit and provides a comprehensive contract detailing all services and costs.

4. Avoid Blank Contracts:
Just as a carefully curated exhibit at the Witte Museum leaves no room for guesswork, a reliable moving contract should be complete and precise. Ensure all services, charges, and the pick-up and delivery dates are clearly stated. If any part of the contract is blank, you could be leaving yourself vulnerable to unexpected fees or services.

5. Understand Your Rights:
Familiarize yourself with the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet provided by the FMCSA, which outlines important protections for consumers. This federal resource acts much like a lifeguard at nearby Canyon Lake, ensuring that your move stays within safe and regulatory waters.

By following these tips, you can greatly reduce the chance of falling victim to fraudulent movers and instead focus on the adventure that awaits you in your new location. At Move Logistics Inc., after being immersed in this industry for over three decades, I firmly believe that the foundation of a smooth move is having trusted professionals alongside you.

Statistics from the American Moving & Storage Association reveal that roughly 35 million Americans move each year, and while complaints represent a small fraction of those moves, reports of fraud have surged in recent years. Let us ensure your story in this journey of life is a plot of excitement and exploration, not cautionary tales of scams.

If you have questions about how to efficiently plan your move or want to learn more about potential pitfalls, don’t hesitate to give us a call. As moving experts based in San Antonio and Boerne, we’ve navigated every twist and turn of the moving process and are here to provide guidance every step of the way.

Sources:
FMCSA: [https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move](https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move)
Better Business Bureau (BBB): [https://www.bbb.org](https://www.bbb.org)