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As we head into the busy summer season, it's crucial to stay vigilant against the rising tide of moving scams. According to an analysis conducted by HireAHelper, reported incidents of moving scams are predicted to skyrocket by 35% year over year by the end of 2023. Unfortunately, scams are estimated to defraud consumers of a staggering $1.59 million in 2023 alone, reflecting a distressing 42% increase from the previous year.
One of the most common types of scams involves no-show movers. Shockingly, this accounts for 26% of reported incidents. Customers, after paying a deposit or upfront fee, find themselves stranded as these fraudulent moving companies fail to show up for the job. In many cases, the unscrupulous movers are nowhere to be found, leaving unsuspecting victims helpless.
Another prevalent scam is mover fraud. These fraudulent operators masquerade as legitimate moving businesses, completing the moving process but then holding customers' possessions ransom until additional fees are paid. This despicable act, commonly referred to as "hostage load," has made up 24% of Better Business Bureau (BBB) complaints this year. In response to the surge in such reports, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has launched an extensive crackdown this spring.
Furthermore, scammers employ the change-of-address tactic, tricking recently relocated individuals into paying hefty fees, usually over $100, to update their address. These victims are directed to bogus websites posing as the U.S. Postal Service, while the actual service provides this service either for free in person or for a nominal fee of $1.05 online. Although change-of-address scams still account for 31% of complaints, there has been a slight decrease from last year's 37%, according to the report.
To compound matters, some movers fail to honor contractual agreements, overcharge customers, or resort to bribing clients for positive reviews. The report highlights Wyoming as the state with the highest incidence of moving scams (occurring in one out of every 4,426 moves), followed by Vermont, South Dakota, and Oregon.
Don't Fall Victim to Moving Scams: Protect Yourself
To shield yourself from falling prey to these deceptive practices, take the following precautionary measures:
1. Compare quotes from multiple moving companies and exercise caution when faced with significantly lower or higher prices, vague details, lack of written contracts, or excessive down payments.
2. Thoroughly research the company's online presence and reputation to ensure authenticity and reliability.
3. Seek out trustworthy customer reviews and testimonials.
4. Utilize the BBB's resources to check for any complaints against the moving company.
5. Verify the authenticity of the website when prompted to make address changes, ensuring it is the official U.S. Postal Service platform.
6. Keep a detailed inventory, including photos, of your possessions in case anything goes missing. Lock up your most expensive valuables.
7. Consider buying moving insurance as added protection.
By arming yourself with knowledge and staying vigilant, you can protect your move and safeguard your belongings from unscrupulous movers. Stay informed and share this information with others to combat moving scams effectively.
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If you are looking for the right Utah home, then give Angie Clarke with UT Makes Moves a call. I aim to offer an exceptional relocation experience and unparalleled customer service through prompt communication, ethics and integrity, and the utmost care / concern for my clients!
Angie Clarke with UT Makes Moves is your local Salt Lake City home expert, specializing in working with buyers who are relocating to Utah. Whether you are buying or selling, I'd love the opportunity to make your relocation journey smooth and successful...I strive to provide Relocation Elevated: easing minds, building community, and finding home.
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