WASHINGTON — The busiest time of year for moving — May through August — is under way. The good news is, there are plenty of professional movers who will do a great job with your belongings. Unfortunately, there are also plenty of con artists with a truck and a website.
“When you are choosing a mover, you can put yourself in a very risky situation,” says Linda Bauer Darr, president and CEO of the Alexandria-based
“A rogue mover is someone who mishandles your stuff, misplaces your stuff, loses your stuff — and you have no recourse for dealing with them,” Bauer Darr warns.
Bauer Darr says a little consumer research can go a long way. The association recommends that you thoroughly research the company you intend to use.
“You need to be careful when you choose a mover, because you’re basically taking everything you own and putting it in the back of a truck with a company that you don’t necessarily know, if you haven’t done your homework,” she says.
All interstate movers must be licensed by the Bauer Darr says choosing an AMSA-certified mover can take a lot of the guesswork out of your choice.
She recommends that consumers get three written in-home estimates and be suspicious of very low offers.
And look out for red flags. Any mover who asks to be paid only in cash or asks for a big down payment, could spell trouble. Chances are, it’s someone looking to take away your leverage.
Hiring a mover can be expensive — “Peak moving season means you’re going to be paying peak prices,” Bauer Darr says — but there are ways to save a few bucks.
Timing your move can save you money.
“You’re going to get a better deal if you move mid-week, and you’re going to get a better deal if you move mid-month.”
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