The vast majority of Seattle is moving companies, even the very small family owned local moving companies, are highly reputable businesses that are owned and operated by true professionals.
Unfortunately, especially in the busy summer season when people are moving at the highest rates into and out of the city, some less than reputable movers may suddenly put a website up and start to do business. Many consumers, without realizing it, may hire these types of “movers” because they typically use unethical business practices that the best local moving companies simply don’t practice.
The Non-Binding Estimate
One of the most common scams that these companies use is to provide a non-binding estimate to the customer for the move. They don’t highlight the fact it is non-binding, but in the print on the contract, it will state the non-binding natural of the “estimate.”
With these types of contracts or estimates, the inventory may be completed over the phone or online. When the actual weight of the move is double or more than the estimate, the company will state that you, as the consumer, did not provide accurate information about the items to be moved.
All local moving companies provide binding or not-to-exceed estimates that provide, in writing, the maximum amount you will pay for the move.
Charging by the Hour with No Estimate
Unless you are only moving a few items a short distance, avoid any local moving companies charging by the hour. Disreputable companies simply slow down everything for these moves, which will end up costing a lot more than they anticipated.
Additionally, these types of local moving companies typically do not provide anything more than basic valuation coverage, which is just a flat rate per pound for any damaged items. They often deny claims and then simply go out of business, leaving the consumer with no compensation for damage or breakage.
The professional movers provide information on insurance and valuation coverage and also make every effort to ensure any claims are processed quickly in the event of any damage.
Demanding Cash Payment
Professionally managed and operated local moving companies in Seattle accept all standard forms of payment including credit cards, debit cards, checks and actual cash.
The companies that don’t accept these forms of payments are the scam movers. They only want cash, so there is no way for consumers to do a chargeback or cancel payment when they fail to provide the services they were contracted to do.
Working with reputable, recognized local moving companies in the Seattle area like Jordan River Moving & Storage is always the best option. Ask for references, check out reviews and talk to the company personally to choose the best one for your move.
