Unfortunately, many moving scams have been tied to the increased usage of the Internet by consumers planning a move. More and more consumers are going online to find a moving company and basing their choices primarily on cost with little regard to a company's record or reputation. As a result, an ever-growing number of people are being scammed by unscrupulous "rogue movers," who aren't licensed or insured movers; some are even "companies" without real operations. The Internet provides these companies the opportunity to present themselves as being more established than they really are.

Mayflower Transit, one of the nation's largest and most recognized names in moving, has compiled a list of moving tips to help consumers choose a professional mover during this busy moving season, when more than 43 million Americans will pack up and move their belongings to a new home.

Planning ahead for your relocation can help reduce the possibility of problems in what is a very detail-driven event. By following these steps in choosing your moving company, you are more likely to have a safer, easier and more cost-effective transition.

Where To Start

•    Begin your search for a mover by asking your friends, relatives and business associates about movers they have used and liked.
•    Use the phone book or contact a real estate agent to find at least three moving companies that have real offices (i.e., real addresses) in your area.
•    If you are using the Yellow Pages, remember: just because a moving company has a large ad doesn't necessarily mean it is reputable.
•    Once you've made a list of prospects, contact the companies via phone to get the full company name and "doing business as" names, the number of years in business, address and phone numbers, Web site and e-mail addresses, references and DOT and MC license numbers.
•    Then go to SaferSys.org, an FMCSA Web site, and search for the company using the DOT and MC license numbers to see safety information, any orders to cease operation, licensing and other information. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer organizations in your local area.

•    Schedule at least two on-site estimates, which should be provided free of charge. A reputable mover will not give you an estimate over the phone.
•    Don't rely on a quote provided sight-unseen over the phone or over the Internet. When moving across state lines, your charge is based on the actual weight of your shipment and where you are moving from and to. You are better off meeting face-to-face with the mover's representative to ensure that you both understand what is involved.
•    During the on-site estimate, be sure to show the representative everything that is to be moved. Don't forget about the items in the basement or the major piece of furniture you have sent away for repairs. Don't be afraid to ask questions. The salesperson should also ask you questions -- about your new home, the timing of your move, etc.
•    Inquire about "valuation" options. Valuation provides protection from loss or damage to your possessions. The valuation option you choose determines the basis upon which any claim will be adjusted and the maximum liability of the mover. The liability of a mover for loss or damage is based upon the mover's tariffs, as well as federal laws and regulations, and has certain limitations and exclusions. Valuation is not insurance; it is simply a tariff-based level of motor carrier liability.
•    Be wary of quotes that are substantially lower than the rest. "Low-ball" price quotes could result in significantly lower-quality service, or they could be an indication of a mover who plans to "up" the price in a moving scam. One of the many horror stories shared by victims of moving fraud involves a rogue mover taking household goods "hostage" and demanding large sums of money - sometimes thousands of dollars - before returning the possessions. (In these cases, the mover often gives the customer a low bid, then ups the price once the goods are on the truck.)

•    There are plenty of quality "name" van lines to choose from. If you have never heard of a particular mover and you have no references from friends or business associates, be very careful! Don't be swayed by a super-low price from an unknown firm; remember, you're entrusting your mover with almost all of your personal possessions.

•    References are important. If a mover wasn't recommended by someone you know, ask for the names and phone numbers of satisfied customers. Then call them!
•    Consider the attentiveness of the salesperson. Do you have confidence that he or she will be there to help you through planning, packing and loading?
•    Take a drive past the mover's office or warehouse. Does it reflect the level of quality and professionalism you expect in a service provider?
•    Movers are required by law to provide you with a copy of the brochure, "Your Rights and Responsibilities." In this brochure, the "110% Rule" is explained. The rule states that under a non-bonding estimate, the mover cannot require you to pay more than the amount of the original estimate, plus 10 percent, at the time of delivery. You are obligated to pay any remaining charges over the 110 percent amount, within 30 days.

Make arrangements for your move well in advance - at least four to six weeks before the moving date. If at all possible, try not to move when everyone else wants to move. Throughout the year, the end of the month is a busy time for movers, because of the expiration of leases and preferred closing dates. The summer months -- May to mid-September, when children are out of school -- are "peak season" for movers. Schedule summertime moves as far in advance as possible...and again, try to stay away from month-end moving dates.

If You Fall Victim

Unfortunately, some consumers will still fall victim to rogue movers this year. Fortunately, there is a service called MoveRescue available to help. Those who feel they may have been scammed should contact MoveRescue at 800-832-1773. Consumers who call this number will talk to a representative who will assess the situation and direct the caller through the appropriate next steps. MoveRescue, which is supported by a network of legal firms throughout the United States, and sponsored by leading van lines, serves as a central source for consumers who need legal assistance or anti-fraud information. In some cases, MoveRescue even offers "Shipment Rescue" for goods being held by rogue movers.
   
If you would like additional moving tips about everything from using the Internet to help with your move to tips for an environmentally friendly move, or for more information about Mayflower Transit and its services, visit Mayflower's Web site at www.mayflower.com.

Mayflower Transit, founded in 1927, is proud to celebrate its 80th anniversary this year. As one of the nation's oldest and largest van lines, Mayflower transports household goods, electronic equipment, trade show exhibits and displays, works of art and specialized freight -- utilizing a network of 700 affiliated agents throughout the United States and around the world.