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I've just started getting quotes for moving to another state. One of them asked for 50% deposit up front. They are a smaller company just starting out, but that seems a bit off to me.
What is your experiences with the financial part of hiring a mover. Deposit to hold the date? Half up front?
Also, do you usually ask for a copy of state license and proof of cargo insurance? Is there anything else one should ask to see?
never asked for license or proof of insurance, but I do check the DOT records for interstate move licensing as well as violations.
Just completed a two part move, first to self storage then to a new house. Both movers wanted a $500 deposit to hold the preferred date. Seemed reasonable, so I paid.
New in business, 1/2 half up front sounds risky.
You also need to be aware of the games some movers play, such as low ball estimates where the final bill jumps by thousands. The DOT link can help you protect yourself, as can many other advice sites on the web.
Also, long distance moving is a tough business. Many companies have gone under since '08 and making money in the industry continues to be a challenge. Anyone getting into long distance moving now, without a lot of know-how and experience I wouldn't trust.
NO REPUTABLE Long Distance moving company needs a deposit..
Stick with the major carriers, they Never ask for money up front, the major carriers are >> United Van Lines, Mayflower Transit , Allied Van Lines, North American Van Lines, Bekins Moving and Storage, Atlas Transfer, Wheaton Moving and Arpin Van Lines ( and a few smaller ones )
usually a deposit is a sure sign of a moving broker and not a moving company
NEVER US A BROKER
Jack Jacobs
Mayflower / United Van lines Sales manager
The major carriers are also essentially brokers, although they call their local guys agents. The agents book the pack and load with independent owner operators who hire the packers, loaders and unloaders themselves, often from local day labor shops. This adds a curious element of risk for the customer, since you know nothing about who will actually handle your move.
And when they get into an accident on the interstate and the DOT impounds the truck and the "major name" refuses to explain WHY your stuff hasn't been delivered after 4 days of calling them ... then you don't get your stuff for another two weeks... and they REFUSE to give you any sort of refund and hold your stuff for the FULL PRICE of the move .... refusing to unload it until you've paid ... well ....
And when they get into an accident on the interstate and the DOT impounds the truck and the "major name" refuses to explain WHY your stuff hasn't been delivered after 4 days of calling them ... then you don't get your stuff for another two weeks... and they REFUSE to give you any sort of refund and hold your stuff for the FULL PRICE of the move .... refusing to unload it until you've paid ... well ....
Yeah, I don't use the "major names" anymore.
This is inaccurate. Major Van Lines require absolutely ZERO security deposits. No reputable mover does this. however, you do need to read the fine print with your moving agreements. If an agent for a major van line is pressuring you to pay up front - Do not do business with them.
As far as claims/refunds being withheld until payment is made, This is Standard Operating Procedure. Van lines are Franchises, and the majority of a Van Line consists of smaller businesses working together. Refusing to pay for services rendered only hurts the driver - who may not even have any fault in the shipment getting delayed at all.
Unless if the quote you're given is a Binding Estimate - You must be prepared to pay at least 100% of this figure - however, These are only Estimates. Prices can go up or down, and it all depends on the particulars with your relocation. Making sure your Estimator/Surveyor takes his time in your residence will insure you receiving an accurate quote.
If your price does go up, Federal Law requires the mover to deliver your goods as long as you pay 110% of the estimated price. The remainder of your bill is due "usually" within 30 days.
Call up a few Major Van Lines in your area. All of these movers offer you Free Estimates at no cost or obligation to you.
IMHO, the nationally advertized, nationally franchized "majors" are among the worst, since you ultimately don't know who you'll be dealing with for your move. The estimators have great manners and sales ability, since their job is to draw you in. But you know nothing about your packers and the driver, who are often independent operators who you may not even know the name of.
Better to find a local independent who is licensed for, and does, long distance moves.
Best of all is know your movers.
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