Many people move during this time of year and moving scams are on the rise. The Better Business Bureau reports a 63% increase in moving scam reports from 2020 to 2021 with 376 reports in just 2021. Below are some tips from the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation to avoid these scams.
Use the official USPS website to initiate your change of address, and do it yourself. Visit www.usps.com/move
Verify the moving company's licenses with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at www.protectyourmove.gov or by calling (202) 366-9805. You can also verify insurance information at the FMCSA by calling (866) 637-0635
Avoid sight unseen quotes and request an on-site inspection of your house before moving to receive an accurate cost estimate
Do not sign contracts if they are incomplete or blank. Make note of pick-up and drop-off dates and any extra fees
Use a credit card to pay for moving services. In the event of a scam, it would be easier to dispute the charge with a credit card
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