Scam alert: How to protect yourself from moving companies

As many Individuals pack as much as begin a brand new chapter of their lives, the Higher Enterprise Bureau issued a client alert for shifting scams. There have been over 1,100 moving-related complaints to the Chicago-area BBB final 12 months and a 216% improve in losses in comparison with 2020.

The BBB says:

Search for up-to-date contact info or insurance coverage info on a mover’s web site.

If a mover asks for a big down cost or full cost upfront, this can be a main pink flag.

Get every part in writing. Get three written estimates from completely different movers based mostly on visits to your own home. Movers shouldn’t be in a position to quote or supply to finalize a contract over the cellphone with out seeing what they are going to truly be shifting on a video name or in-person.

Preserve a list of your belongings. Preserve observe of your possessions by labeling packing containers and noting what’s in every field. Take images of the contents earlier than you pack.

See in case your mover is registered and licensed with the Illinois Commerce Fee, or one other comparable authorities company in the event that they’re out of state. If they are not, that too, generally is a warning.