PHOENIX — Scammers are quick to take advantage of people looking for a fresh start in a new apartment or home.
That’s why Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has teamed up with the Better Business Bureau to release a series of public service announcements aimed at raising awareness of common moving scams, such as illegal “hostage load” situations.
These occur when a moving company refuses to deliver or unload a person’s belongings unless they pay unexpected, additional fees.
“If somebody is trying to do that to you, you don’t have to put up with that,” Mayes said in the Monday PSA. You can call 911. Someone cannot hold your belongings hostage and demand that you pay more than you were quoted.”
How do scammers take advantage of people moving to new home, apartment?
Not all fraudulent moving companies hold your belongings hostage. Some don’t show up at all. No-show scams happen when a company takes your deposit and then disappears, never arriving on moving day.
To avoid this, don’t pay cash or a large deposit before the move. Mayes said it’s best to use a credit card because that way you’ll have a measure of protection in case of a dispute.
Some scammers hit you with upcharges, billing your credit card for far more than the original quote.
Others provide a low estimate based on an expected weight, then claim your load is heavier than expected. They’ll tack on extra fees, sometimes doubling the original price.
Here are some of the strategies Attorney General Mayes recommends to help protect yourself from moving scams like these.
Ways to avoid moving scams, according to Arizona attorney general
Doing a little research ahead of time can make a big difference. That includes checking a moving company’s complaint history and reading customer reviews before signing a contract.
“Check out your movers, make sure you know who you’re hiring, and make sure you’ve got all those details fastened down before you hire somebody,” Mayes said.
If you’re moving across state lines, be sure to verify the company’s U.S. Department of Transportation number, Mayes said. All interstate movers are required to register with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
You can confirm a mover’s registration by visiting the FMCSA website or by calling 202-385-2423.
Worried about moving scams? Watch for these red flags
People should also watch out for super low estimates, make sure they have proper insurance to cover potential damage and always be present during the move. Even if the company you’re working with is trustworthy, they might leave important items behind by accident.
One big red flag is an extremely low estimate because some companies will give low estimates to lure in customers — only to demand more money later.
Another one of Mayes’ top pieces of advice for avoiding moving scams is to mind paperwork. Thoroughly review any contract you sign, never put your name on blank or incomplete documents and get moving quotes in writing.
“We’re all stressed out when they’re moving and these moving companies then take advantage of that stress,” Mayes said. “They can be as smooth as a roll of packing tape and pull one over on us.”
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