How to Check if a Moving Company Is Legitimate
Relocation is already challenging enough without having to worry about entrusting your belongings to a disreputable company. While most movers offer legitimate services, there continue to be enough legal complaints about fraudulent practices to warrant that you take steps to avoid becoming a victim of rogue movers. Fortunately, there are a number of ways you can verify a company’s legitimacy.
Look for Proper Licensing and Insurance
Local movers are regulated by the state, and every state has its own licensing regulations. To ensure that your mover is legitimate and you have legal recourse in the event your goods are lost or damage, you should definitely read up on your state’s requirements.
When it comes to interstate relocations, companies are required to register with the federal government. Also, they must offer two types of liability insurance: full value protection (the replacement value of lost or damaged goods of your entire shipment) and released value (replacement of up to 60 cents per pound per article). You can find licensed and insured interstate movers by contacting the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Check Better Business Bureau Accreditation
As a renowned, consumer-advocate organization, the BBB accredits only companies that exercise ethical and fair business practices. This means that any mover with BBB accreditation or a high BBB rating is a company you can trust to handle your belongings.
Reviews and Recommendations
Online research can be invaluable in helping you weed out disreputable movers as potential relocation partners. A barrage of bad reviews for a company is a sure sign that you should look elsewhere. Contrarily, a company that receives plenty of glowing remarks deserves consideration.
Neighbors, friends, and family are also a great resource. Ask them if they’ve had any experience using a moving company and if they can recommend a good mover for your relocation, or warn you about companies to avoid.
In business since 1966, Atlantic Relocation Systems is arguably one of the most recommended moving companies in the United States. As a fully licensed and insured mover, we offer local, interstate, and international relocations, with teams of specially trained and highly experienced movers. We hold an A+ rating from the BBB and a ProMover designation from the American Moving and Storage Association. To learn about our company and the expert services we provide to customers nationwide, contact us today.
