How to Make Claims Against a Moving Company for Damages
March 22, 2023
March 22, 2023
Moving can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. Whether you’re moving locally or long distance, there are a lot of things to consider and manage during the process. One of the biggest concerns is handling loss or damage during a move. No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen, and items can get lost or damaged. However, with the right preparation and approach, you can minimize the risk of loss or damage and handle it effectively if it does occur.
According to the report, there is a 4,100 moving fraud complaints filed in 2017 alone and counting. If you are getting scammed by a moving company continue reading below in order for you to avoid scams and how can you file a claim against a fraud moving company.
The law requires professional moving companies to respond or notify you that they received your claim within 30 days of filing. Within 120 days of filing, movers must deny or pay the damage if proven.
If the moving company doesn’t notify or respond to you within 120 days, you can file complaints through the Better Business Bureau or FMDSA. This will force them to resolve the issue. If not, this will result in losing their license to operate in the state.
Filing complaints through FMCSA’s will reflect on their consumer’s complaint database and will be list listed on their public records. FMCSA will take action against the company and they will notify you for more information.
You have the right to take the company to the court if they refuse or if they offer you insufficient settlement offers. You can submit a small claim to court through UslegalForms. You must provide evidence, moving contracts, and tracking of the items.
Millions in the US moved across states every year. National Consumer Complaint Database of customer complaints is a nightmare! Moving is not easy, but if you hire the best interstate mover, you won’t have a problem.
Consider these steps to avoid getting scammed by a moving company.
A simple Google search is not enough! There are a lot of fake reviews out there that make the fake company look good. Go ahead to Yelp or Better Business Bureau website, see if there are customer complaints, and cases against the company, and see if there are service ratings.
Ask for quotations or estimates, and professional moving companies will send you personnel for on-site inspections. By this, you have a much clearer idea of cost so you can set your proper budget to stick with. They are obligated to give you a document “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move”.
Ask everything you need to know, ask them if it’s calculated by volume or weight. Do they have a worker to do the packing or unloading of your belongings? If possible do it by yourself to lessen your expenses. Avid those hidden fees ask them if there is an additional fee for the driver or packing materials. ( Also, Read Why is it Very Important to Ask for Moving Quotes )
Upon handing you the written estimation, review it thoroughly. If all things went well and you find the best interstate movers. Prepare for your next move!
