When it comes to moving, there’s always a lot of stress. Do you really want to add the stress of dealing with a rogue mover? The answer should be a loud and resounding “No!”
We don’t want you to deal with such a moving company, either. That’s why we want to tell you about one of the most common moving scams, known as ‘hostage freight’. So, what is it, anyway?
Hostage freight is when a moving company gives you a price quote but then doubles it (or increases it significantly) once they load your belongings onto the moving truck. If that isn’t bad enough, the moving company usually won’t tell you the jacked up price until it’s too late. If you don’t pay, you don’t get your stuff. It’s as simple as that. They actually hold your freight shipment hostage!
Don’t let this happen to you. Before you select a moving company, be sure to fully research it before signing any contract or letting the movers load up your stuff. Here are some things you can do to protect yourself from such rogue movers:
- Check the moving company out on the Better Business Bureau website.
- Double check the Department of Transportation for the moving company’s DOT number.
- Find out if they are licensed.
- Read online reviews of the moving company. Are there any comments about scams?
- Ask your friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations for moving companies.
Lance Grooms
