Consumer Wise: Avoid Moving Mistakes

Tricks of the Trade

Getting ready to move to a new home can be a stressful experience.  Take the hassle out by knowing your rights and planning your move ahead of time.  The Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department licenses and regulates movers to ensure consumer satisfaction and give consumers confidence that they are dealing with legitimate businesses.

The department advises consumers to be aware of potential rip-offs as well as money-saving tips.

Common Rip-offs

• “Hostage Freight.” After agreeing upon a price and loading the truck, the mover tells the consumer that his possessions exceed the agreed-upon volume and charges several times more than the original estimate.  The customer feels obligated to pay in order to get back their personal items

• Missing valuables. The mover claims an item was never packed and loaded into the truck.

Consumer Smarts

• Find a reputable mover. Check with the Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department to see whether they are licensed and have a history of complaints or citations.  If the mover resolved their complaints, it could be a good sign that you’re working with professionals.

• Get everything in writing prior to beginning work. Movers are required to provide a written contract detailing the items to be moved and the total cost of the move.

• DO NOT sign the contract if the total cost of your move is not clearly shown.  The final cost cannot deviate by even the slightest amount from what’s on the signed contract.

• DO NOT sign the contract unless it is given to you PRIOR to wrapping, packing or loading your goods.

• DO get a copy of the contract IMMEDIATELY upon signing.

• Forms of payment must include at least two options: cash, personal check and/or credit card.  Ask what forms of payment they accept.

• Movers are required to provide insurance. However, the minimum coverage is only $0.60 per pound, regardless of the value of the object. You have a right to purchase additional insurance coverage.  Most movers offer full-value protection at an additional cost.  You also have the option of buying a policy directly from an insurer.  Don’t just count on your homeowner’s policy to cover your losses.

For more consumer tips, or to check the complaint history of a company, file a complaint or ask consumer-related questions, visit the Miami-Dade Consumer Services Department website at  http://www.miamidade.gov/csd/consumer_wise.asp or call (305) 375-3677.

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