When it comes to the relocation process, you need all the help you can get. No matter where this help is coming from, it is always more than welcome. One thing we all know can aid us greatly in the relocation process are reputable movers. Moreover, not only can they help us, but they are also necessary for any moving to go smoothly.
And, if you don’t have enough time to put in hours of research into finding reliable movers, you can always rely on a moving broker. In case this is the first time you hear of this term, stick with us. Let Big Apple Movers teach you what exactly a moving broker is, and why you should hire one the next time you move!
What Is a Moving Broker?
First things first, you need to be familiar with the term ‘moving broker’ before you decide you need one. A moving broker is a middleman between you and all the available moving companies on the market.
He or she is a professional, who can give you an estimate and find the best possible moving company for you. Whether you need residential or office moving experts, you can rest assured your broker will be able to find the best one for you.
Moreover, they work for a fee and are usually cheaper than moving companies. Don`t get us wrong. Moving brokers do not equal moving companies. A broker’s job is to find a suitable moving company for your needs.
However, as nothing in life is perfect, the same applies to these relocation professionals. There are certain things you should be wary about when looking for your broker.
What Are the Risks Associated with Moving Brokers?
Hiring a broker comes with a certain amount of risks. For starters, there is a chance that the broker`s estimate might not be suitable and that it will not be accepted by the moving companies. Usually, this is because the broker`s estimate is too low. In case this happens, you would be left without a moving company on your moving day. Can you imagine a worse scenario?
Furthermore, you need to check whether your moving brokers are licensed and insured! Just like a lot of moving scams and fraudulent companies have resurfaced lately, so have unlicensed moving brokers. So, how can you ensure that a moving broker you are interested in is indeed legit?
Look for a moving broker that is registered with the FMCSA.
Ask them to show you a list of the moving companies they usually work with.
Moreover, ask to see the written agreements they have with those movers.
Once you ensure that the coast is clear and that your moving brokers are who they advertise they are, you can proceed with hiring them.
Moving Broker vs Moving Company
While both options offer services related to moving, they have distinct roles and functions. Understanding the difference between a moving broker and a moving company can help you make an informed choice that suits your needs and preferences.
Moving Broker
A moving broker is an intermediary or middleman that acts as a link between you, the customer, and various moving companies. Instead of physically handling the moving process, a broker facilitates the connection between you and a moving company that can best accommodate your needs. Here’s how a moving broker works:
Estimates and Options: When you approach a moving broker, they gather information about your move, such as the distance, size of the move, and specific requirements. Based on this information, they provide you with estimates from different moving companies within their network.
Connections: The broker has established relationships with a network of moving companies. They match your requirements with a suitable mover from their pool of partners.
Negotiations: The broker negotiates the terms of the move on your behalf, including pricing and services. They aim to secure the best deal for you.
Coordination: Once you’ve chosen a moving company, the broker coordinates the details of the move, including scheduling and logistics.
Moving Company
A moving company is a business that specializes in providing moving services. When you hire a moving company, they handle various aspects of the move directly, from packing and loading to transportation and unloading. Here’s what to expect when working with a moving company:
Direct Service: A moving company is responsible for all aspects of the move. They have their own team of movers and equipment.
Customized Service: You work directly with the moving company to outline your requirements and preferences for the move.
Responsibility: The moving company is accountable for the entire process, ensuring that your belongings are handled safely and efficiently.
Conclusion
In case you weren’t paying close attention, let us sum it up for you. A moving broker is a person who conducts its business between two parties – a client and moving companies. They are a good way to save money in the Big Apple since their fees are affordable. However, even they don`t come without risks, which is why you should make sure they possess the necessary licenses.
Moving can be stressful and overwhelming so being well organized is imperative. Hiring the right movers is the most important thing in your moving process. Be sure to look for the best moving services in Manhattan and hire your reliable movers. Reliability, honesty, and professionalism are the most important traits a moving company should have. But, how do you know that your moving company is reliable? You should do a detailed background check and make sure that you follow the guidelines you are going to read here. Yes, moving scams are possible and doing a detailed check is the best way to avoid Manhattan moving scams.
Do a detailed background check to avoid Manhattan moving scams
How to avoid Manhattan moving scams
You should always choose an experienced moving company with a long history. If a moving company has been out there for a very long time they are probably very reputable. These companies care about their reputation and that is why they are still working and functioning. Just think about it, if there were scams they would be reported. If a lot of people report scams the authorities will check this out and close the business of the moving company. If this hasn’t happened by now it probably will not happen in the future. So this is a good guarantee that the moving company is legit.
Check if the company is insured
It is very important to check if the company has all of the necessary papers and that they are insured. They need to have insurance against any unfortunate mistakes that might happen. They should also ask you if you have insurance. If you don’t they should offer you to buy an insurance policy from them. If this happens it is a sure sign that they are reputable and that they care about their clients. In addition, you should check if their workers are bounded. A reputable moving company will have bounded workers that work under a legitimate contract. You should check this as well.
Get references and check their BBB rating
What you should definitely do is check online reviews of the company. This should give you some kind of an insight into the experiences of the prior customers. Moreover, to be completely sure they are legit ask for a contact number and names of some previous satisfied customers. A good and reputable company will not have a problem with this.They will gladly comply with your wishes. However, if they don’t accept you should just move on. It is a good idea to check the company at Better Business Bureau. Focus on moving scam reports. You will be able to track any kind of bad reports of the company here. This is a sure way to avoid Manhattan moving scams.
Check online reviews to avoid Manhattan moving scams
Additional things to do to avoid Manhattan moving scams
Here is a valuable piece of advice for you. You should plan your move well in advance because this is a sure way to hire the best and the most reliable companies. If you plan in time you will get these benefits
You will hire the best and most reliable companies
If you don’t act in time others will book all of the best moving companies.
Ask your real estate agent for some advice
You might be quite inexperienced when it comes to moving scams but your real estate agent has seen it all a million times before. Both good and bad news spread like wildfire. You should ask your real estate agent for some information and recommendations. If the moving company you want to opt for has been involved in any Manhattan moving scams your agent will probably have some information about this. You should ask them about the good and bad experiences of their previous clients. They are a wonderful and reliable source of information.
Ask for a detailed contract
A reliable moving company will make a detailed and elaborate contract. Be sure to know what you are signing. The contract should include their estimate, all of their fees and additional fees and exact date of the move. Check all of this before you sign anything.It should match the information they have given you beforehand. If there is no paperwork than you can be sure that you are dealing with scammers.
Never settle for large deposits
If the moving company is asking you to pay a large deposit there is something wrong there. A reliable company will only ask you to leave a small deposit as a sign of trust and goodwill. If you are asking about the sum of money it is usually between 100 and 500 dollars. If your moving company is asking for much more than this something is fishy and you should avoid them. Pay attention to the cost of the move. If the cost is too cheap or much cheaper than you expected than something is probably wrong. You could be dealing with rogue movers or scammers.
Your movers should have an office
There is an increase in scammers who pretend to have Internet only moving companies. It is not enough to check the website of the moving company. It could be top notch or too good to be true and promise you the best service. However, your moving company needs to have an office. You should go to the address you find on the website and check that the company is there. If you don’t find them there, they are probably just part-time scammers.
The moving company should have an office
Check their trucks and storage units
If the moving company is professional and reputable they should have trucks that are in excellent condition. If the trucks are in a great condition it means that your belongings will stay safe during transport. You should check if they have affordable storage units. However, it is more important that the storage units they offer are safe and hygienic.
Following all of these tips is a good way to avoid Manhattan moving scams. Your move will be safe and everything will go more smoothly.
Not every negative experience has to necessarily be a scam. It could simply be unpleasant in any way – poor communication, tardiness, quality of service, etc. The prejudice is that this usually happens with new movers in NY. However, in some cases, it’s not unpleasantry but actual deception, regardless of whether you are moving to New York, or within it. You may be deceived by the price, for instance. You’d agree upon one price and during the moving day, the price would change, leaving you cornered and in despair. There are also scenarios where the movers would keep your belongings hostage until they received a better price from you. Continue reading “New movers in NY – How to check their reliability?”
Moving is a journey full of excitement, anticipation, and, let’s be honest, a bit of chaos! From packing up all your belongings to saying goodbye to familiar places, moving can feel like a whirlwind of emotions and to-do lists. But what if we told you that there’s a way to take the stress out of the equation? Picture this: a complete, foolproof checklist for moving that guides you every step of the way, transforming the moving process into a smooth, organized experience.
Whether it’s ensuring your fragile items are safely packed or keeping track of those easy-to-miss details (hello, address change!), having a solid game plan can make all the difference. Ready to turn your moving game? Let our ultimate moving checklist become the roadmap to your successful move.
Moving Checklist/List To Do Things You Should Remember While Moving
The moving checklist has been organized chronologically, with a comprehensive timeline culminating in the actual moving day. This timeline serves as the basis for a detailed checklist of things to do when moving, which outlines tasks that require attention within specific timeframes.
To streamline the process, the timeline is divided into categories such as tasks to be completed two months prior, one month prior, one week prior, a few days prior, and on the day of the move.
You want to start your move ahead of time, it is one of the keys to a successful move. If you procrastinate and delay the things that need to be done way ahead of time, you will face utter failure.
Two Months Before
The two months before period should start lightly and without any dangerous deadlines. Here is the two weeks before moving checklist for you.
Find a Moving Company
Ignorance is a choice in the age of the internet. So choose wisely. There are numerous moving tips on what to look for when finding movers. To avoid any kind of moving scam, select legally registered movers with insurance, have good online (or word of mouth) reviews, and have a USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number.
Check the experience of the moving company and see if they are professional enough to conduct any type of move. If you need help selecting a trustworthy company, check out this helpful guide on how to find a reliable moving company in NYC.
Get an Estimate from Moving Company
Shortlist a few movers and get estimates from them. It is advisable to find at least 3 moving companies and obtain a quote. Ensure that movers perform an in-person inspection or a video survey before giving you the actual estimate. Check out Big Apple Moving’s quote for a quick and easy way to obtain a moving estimate and let your mind be free from moving worries.
Set a Budget for Moving
You need to have a budget for moving out before hiring a moving company. Make a list of your expenses and set aside some money to meet unexpected expenses. The budget should include the expenses for movers, packing materials, storage spaces, and much more. Look for affordable moving companies in NYC and see how well they can meet your requirements to make your move easy.
What’s more? You can even get precise moving rates by requesting quotes from several moving companies. All this will help you stay within the budget and hence choose the right company for moving.
Declutter Items You Don’t Need Anymore
The next tip in the checklist for moving is decluttering. Eliminate anything that you don’t need or use. You can also consider selling or donating them. Knowing how to declutter your moving makes your move much easier by reducing the number of items you need to move. So, declutter before moving to make your home more organized.
6 Weeks Before Moving
The time is coming near when you will have to move. So, finalize some details. Let your friends and family know that you are planning to relocate. Plan some get-togethers if you haven’t seen them for a while. Let’s see what more should you do six weeks before moving –
Book a Moving Van
You are getting closer to your moving date. Book a van for moving in advance. Choose or rent the one that can fit all your belongings. You can read more about the benefits of renting a moving van here. Furthermore, keep in mind that you should choose the one that doesn’t have huge extra space that you don’t need as you will have to pay extra for it.
Choose the right size of boxes for moving
You have to choose moving boxes to store your belongings. So, how do you choose the right size moving box? A general rule says to use small boxes for heavier items like books and larger boxes for lighter items like pillows. What’s more? Save some money by recycling used containers. You can look for such boxes in liquor stores, groceries, restaurants, and other local businesses.
Learn Some Packing Hacks
Is any move complete without packing? Obviously not. Start by packing the non-seasonal and non-essential items first. When it comes to how to pack an apartment, go room by room. Pack fragile items with extra care and keep the valuables and important documents separate. Many professional movers help you with packing and helps you reduce the packing stress. Get packing services from Big Apple Moving Today.
Label Your Boxes Correctly
The most important thing when packing your boxes is to develop a habit of labeling everything. This way, you’ll know what boxes contain your needed belongings. Some tips on how to label moving boxes like a pro are to color code them, maintain an inventory, and use larger fonts.
Write Old & New Both Address Correctly
When filling out your moving paperwork, make sure both your old and new addresses are written accurately. An incorrect address can cause delays or lost mail. Know how to write an apartment address correctly in this helpful guide.
4 Weeks Before Moving
Things are getting spicier here. Now you need to do more tasks as you are just 30 days away from the moving day.
Buy Moving Insurance
Buy moving insurance to protect your belongings if something gets lost or damaged. You can skip this step. But here is the catch: Buying one will give you peace of mind that your items are covered. Additionally, check if your moving company has a certificate of insurance or not, as it ensures that the company has a license to operate in that particular area.
Get Rid of Perishable Items
If you have any perishable food items in your pantry or fridge, start using them. You don’t want to transport food items that may spoil during the move with you. So, plan your meals accordingly to eliminate the food that could turn bad.
Gather All Your Records
Before your move, gather all the important financial, legal, medical, and insurance records. Keep them secured in a folder and at such a place where you won’t forget them.
File for Change of Address
Change of address takes time. Notify your post office, banks, and other service providers about your change of address. Make sure your mail gets forwarded to your new home without any issues. Most post offices let you file for a change of address online for convenience.
2 Weeks Before Moving
It feels like two weeks is a lot of time, but you have to gear up as still there is a lot more to do. Update all your accounts and records for the smooth sailing of your move.
Create a Bag or Folder for Bills and Slips
Creating a digital folder is fine. But that doesn’t replace the importance of a physical folder where you can keep all your receipts, bills, and important documents you need when moving.
Recycle or Dispose of Poisonous Items.
Do you own any flammable, corrosive, or toxic materials? If yes, remove them safely, as these cannot be moved by professional movers. Dispose of them in a correct manner. Check local recycling centers for proper disposal methods
Update your driver’s license
Many places require you to update your driver’s license within a specific time window after moving. Visit the DMV website to check the requirements and ensure that your license reflects the new address. Important documents to get an updated driver’s license are – residency proof, proof of social security number, and an additional form of identification.
1 Week Before Moving
Finally, the time to move has arrived. Organize what’s left and clean your old home. The earlier you finish all the tasks, the less things you have to manage on the day of the move.
Clean Your Old Home`
Just because you are moving to a new home does not mean you can leave the mess in your old one. Take some time and show some love to your old home by cleaning it before you make a move. If you want to get back your rental deposit, you must clean your current home like a pro and repair any tiny damages. Leaving your old home in spotless and clean condition ensures that you get your security deposit back.
Unplug Your Fridge
Unplug your fridge at least a day before to give it time for defrosting and cleaning. Because any lingering water can create trouble while moving. So, you must know the right process of moving a refrigerator to your new home and keep yourself out of any mess.
Cancel or Redirect Pending Deliveries
Have you ordered anything recently? If yes, you must ensure that all your deliveries arrive before your move. Or else, redirect them to your new address. Another idea is to cancel them entirely to avoid any confusion.
Check the Weather & Withdraw Some Cash
Check the weather forecast for your moving day and plan accordingly. Take extra precautions if the weather is going to be harsh or it’s going to rain. Withdraw some cash to tip the buyers or to buy any last-minute items.
Moving Day
The day for which you have been waiting has come. If you have followed the checklist of things to do when moving, the move will be a breeze for you. So, wake up and start with the move as soon as possible.
Work With the Movers
Answer the movers any doubts or questions they ask you. Communicate effectively with them. Let them know where each box should go as soon as they arrive at your new home. Don’t forget to tip them up at the end.
Unpack the Essentials
Some people get overwhelmed with the process of unpacking. If you are one of them, start unpacking the essentials like kitchen necessities, toiletries, and other essentials to make them easily accessible. After unpacking the important items, go for the unopened boxes. Need help with unpacking? Consult Big Apple Moving.
Verify Everything
Double-check all your belongings before the movers arrive. Take inventory of your boxes and furniture to ensure nothing is missing or damaged. It’s always better to address any issues immediately with the movers on-site.
Final Thoughts
Moving doesn’t have to fill you up with stress if you follow a solid plan and a moving checklist. Following the above-mentioned tips will let you do everything in order and organize your move strategically.
Let Big Apple Moving’s professional and reliable movers ensure a smooth transition to your new home and find the answer to why we are considered number one in the industry. It’s time to make your move one of the best experiences of your life. Contact us to know more.
You’re about to undergo one of the most stressful activities out there, moving, and if that wasn’t enough – now you have to worry about NYC moving scams too? Great, I know. Don’t fret for this article will point out to the most important things to look for when hiring a moving company. We will try to take at least one thing off your list of worries. Continue reading “How to spot NYC moving scams?”
Moving to a new home, whether it’s across town or across the country, can be an exciting and life-changing experience. However, amidst the anticipation of a fresh start, there exists an unfortunate reality: the presence of moving scams. These deceptive practices not only jeopardize the safety of your belongings but also pose a threat to your financial well-being and peace of mind.
In today’s fast-paced world, where countless moving companies that offer moving and storage services try to get your attention, it has become increasingly crucial to equip yourself with knowledge and vigilance to steer clear of potential moving scams. Understanding the warning signs and adopting proactive measures can save you from the heartache of falling victim to unscrupulous operators.
Most Common Moving Scams
Moving scams can turn what should be an exciting and smooth transition into a nightmare. Unfortunately, these deceitful practices continue to prey on unsuspecting individuals who are in the process of relocating. To protect yourself and your belongings, it’s essential to be aware of the most common moving scams. Here are some of the tactics employed by unscrupulous movers:
Low-Ball Estimates: One of the most prevalent moving scams is the “low-ball estimate.” In this scheme, a moving company will provide an enticingly low cost estimate upfront, luring customers with the promise of saving money. However, once the contract is signed and the move is underway, these dishonest movers suddenly inflate the charges, citing hidden fees, additional services, or unforeseen difficulties. By then, you may find yourself in a difficult position, unable to back out of the deal without incurring significant costs.
Holding Belongings Hostage: In this distressing scam, some movers will load your belongings onto the truck but then hold them hostage until you pay an exorbitant amount over the agreed-upon price. They may claim that there were more items than initially estimated or fabricate issues with the move as an excuse to demand additional payment. This tactic leaves customers with limited options, as they need their belongings and may feel pressured to pay the inflated fees.
Non-Binding Estimates Turned Binding: Movers may initially offer a non-binding estimate, which gives them the flexibility to adjust the final cost based on the actual weight or volume of your belongings. However, dishonest movers may exploit this by intentionally underestimating the weight or volume during the estimate process. As a result, the final bill becomes significantly higher than expected, transforming the supposedly non-binding estimate into a binding one.
Fake Reviews and Credentials: Some moving companies resort to fraudulent practices to appear reputable and trustworthy. This includes posting fake positive reviews on review websites or social media platforms. They may also claim to have licenses, certifications, or affiliations with reputable organizations when, in reality, they have no such credentials. Always verify the legitimacy of a moving company’s claims and read reviews from multiple sources before making a decision.
No Written Contracts: Moving companies that avoid providing written contracts should be treated with suspicion. A written agreement is crucial as it outlines the terms and conditions of the move, including the cost, services, and pickup/delivery dates. Without a written contract, you have little recourse if issues arise during or after the move.
Sudden Name Changes: Some dishonest moving companies intentionally change their names to avoid negative reviews or complaints. By operating under a different name, they can continue to engage in fraudulent practices without being easily traceable. Always research the company thoroughly and verify their history before hiring them.
Protecting yourself from moving scams requires due diligence and awareness. Take the time to research moving companies, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from friends and family. Request multiple in-home estimates and ensure that you receive written contracts from the chosen moving company. By staying vigilant, you can minimize the risks of falling victim to moving scams and enjoy a smooth and stress-free relocation experience.
Avoiding Moving Company Scams
Moving to a new home can be a daunting task, but the last thing you want to worry about during this already stressful time is falling victim to a moving company scam. Unfortunately, moving scams are all too common, and they can lead to damaged or stolen belongings, unexpected fees, and even the disappearance of your hired movers altogether.
Check Company Insurance
It is very important to check if the company has all of the necessary papers and that they are insured. They need to have insurance against any unfortunate mistakes that might happen. They should also ask you if you have insurance. If you don’t they should offer you to buy an insurance policy from them. If this happens it is a sure sign that they are reputable and that they care about their clients. In addition, you should check if their workers are bounded. A reputable moving company will have bounded workers that work under a legitimate contract. You should check this as well.
Ask For a Licence
Simple as that. Every mover in the NYC area should be approved by the New York State Department of Transportation. Any mover that hasn’t received their license should not be the one you chose. To make it easier, any moving company with a solid reputation will have such a license that can be found on their website.
Ask For A Detailed Contract
A reliable moving company will make a detailed and elaborate contract. Be sure to know what you are signing. The contract should include their estimate, all of their fees and additional fees and exact date of the move. Check all of this before you sign anything. It should match the information they have given you beforehand. If there is no paperwork than you can be sure that you are dealing with scammers.
Never Settle For Large Deposits
If the moving company is asking you to pay a large deposit there is something wrong there. A reliable company will only ask you to leave a small deposit as a sign of trust and goodwill. If you are asking about the sum of money it is usually between 100 and 500 dollars. If your moving company is asking for much more than this something is fishy and you should avoid them. Pay attention to the cost of the move. If the cost is too cheap or much cheaper than you expected than something is probably wrong. You could be dealing with rogue movers or scammers.
Word of Mouth
Literally the safest way for you to be safe is to ask your friends and family about a recommendation. If they have had a pleasant experience within the past 6 months or a year – you should be pretty safe yourself. There will be no surprises. Unless you’re really unlucky.
Check out the Chosen Movers Website
When you pick one, make sure to go to their webpage. Scroll through it. If it looks like it was made by a 15 year old, and has no physical address or phone number – it usually should activate red lights. We would strongly recommend you to avoid that from the start. It must have an page about the company and services.
Online Reviews
In the age of internet ignorance is a choice. Information spreads fast, especially online. Go to online review websites and forums where people have shared their experiences (and possibly contact info of their movers). Be mindful of fake reviews. Use your common sense to spot one.
Conclusion
In conclusion, protecting yourself from moving scams is a critical aspect of ensuring a successful and stress-free relocation. By arming yourself with knowledge and being vigilant throughout the process, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling prey to unscrupulous moving companies.
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