3 On Your Side: Hiring A Mover
By Jim Donovan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- May is National Moving Month. As the school year comes to a close, many families may be planning a move to a new home. Here is some advice to keep your move hassle free.
Last year, the Better Business Bureau received thousands of complaints against movers over lost, stolen or damaged belongings, price hikes and late deliveries. So, the Bureau is offering these tips for a smart move:
First, before hiring any company, be sure to check out mover reviews on the Better Business Bureau's website, www.bbb.org
Make sure that your movers are licensed. State regulations vary, but interstate movers must be licensed by the federal government. You can look them up on www.protectyourmove.gov and www.moving.org.
Get at least three in-home price estimates, and get them in writing. Don't assume an estimate made online or over the phone will be firm, and be sure to get a written contract that spells out pick-up and delivery dates.
Consider accepting full value protection. It'll cost more upfront, but you'll get a replacement or cash for any lost or damaged belongings. Later this month, regulations that require interstate movers to include full value protection in their price quotes go into effect.
Finally, know your rights as a consumer. Read more at www.protectyourmove.gov. If you're staying in state, check with your local government. And by the way, if your movers don't hold up their end of the bargain, contact law enforcement.
