CHEAP MOVERS CAN BE A PROBLEM
Are you looking for cheap movers? Moving is expensive; I get it. It’s a luxury and not always a necessity, so our instinct is to find cheap movers. I’m here to tell you that looking for the cheapest moving company is the number one mistake that people make. In this article, we will provide five reasons why you should change your search from cheap movers to “best moving companies.” We will also provide some average prices of what a long-distance move should be. Also, check out this article on the mistakes people make when choosing a mover.
1. YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR
Finding a moving company isn’t like shopping for a TV. Most people think that moving is a no brainer so let’s find cheap movers. Movers are not created equal, not to mention the number of scam artists in the industry. I get that you want to save money, but looking for the least expensive mover will get you in trouble quick.
Their movers are typically not background checked so you can have a convict rummaging through your items. They’re not drug tested so you know what can happen there. Their trucks aren’t appropriately managed, and usually, they’re not even operating legally. Just check out what happened to this family here.
2. SCAMMERS REEL PEOPLE IN WITH CHEAP MOVERS QUOTES
The age-old “bait & switch” tactic has been around for years. It’s a tactic often used in the industry to reel customers in and then upcharge them. The scam goes like this. A mover will give you an attractive price, you agree and book your move. They pick up your stuff load the truck and drive off. You then get a call from the driver saying that you have a lot more stuff and they need to charge you an additional $3000. You say “well that wasn’t the agreement” and they say “either you pay or you don’t get your stuff.
This scam has been around for years. It even has a name – hostage load. If you find yourself a victim contact the police and DOT as soon as possible. Unfortunately, most scam moving companies get away with it because the DOT is understaffed. Do your research before looking for cheap movers. You should know your rights. Check out this post on moving industry laws.
3. SUBPAR WORKERS, DRIVERS, AND TRUCKS
I’m not saying that you should look for the most expensive moving company but reasonably priced. Scouting moving companies is hard. There is so much information on the internet and it’s hard to trust what you read these days. Even the worst moving companies can manipulate online reviews to have a positive appearance. If you’re getting three moving quotes and one seems too good to be true chances are it is. The best moving companies share similar costs. They have labor, fuel, trucks, etc. There is no way for a quality mover to be that much cheaper. Generally speaking, movers make about 15-20% profit on your move. If a company is a couple of hundred dollars less that’s reasonable. Beware of companies offering cheap movers quotes.
4.LACK OF CUSTOMER SERVICE
Customer service is highly important when it comes to a long-distance or international move. It requires a staff to dispatch, manage and keep in contact with the customers almost daily. Moving is very personal. People want to know where their stuff is and when it’s being delivered. Why put yourself through the anxiety of not being able to reach the mover you hired. Quality movers will dedicate a relation coordinator to stay in contact with you throughout your move so you know what’s going on. It’s worth the peace of mind to search for the best moving companies.
5.CHEAP MOVERS DON’T CARE AS MUCH
I’ve been in the moving industry for 15 years and have seen it all. It seems like these cheap movers will just throw a quote out there to get your business, but don’t care about you. Too many moving salespeople, you’re only a commission. They will tell you whatever you need to hear to get your deposit. Once they have your money, you will never hear from them again. Why put yourself through this. Spend some time and do research. If you’re planning a long-distance or international move, you will want to find someone with experience and that care about your progress.