How to Avoid an Expensive and Stressful Move

RISMEDIA, May 19, 2009-Unemployment is the highest it has been in 25 years. The DOW dropped to a record low in March. Everything is getting more expensive. These days we are faced with a lot of negative statistics and consumer confidence is suffering. When it comes to moving, one might think that the costs should be cheaper, service should be better, and they should have more companies to choose from. But what are the facts?

-The drop in the economy has resulted in 20% less people moving, which has caused a drop in the moving business.
-The cost of a move has increased year over year since 2005.
-The number of claims with the Better Business Bureau against movers has increased in the past year.
-Many moving companies are closing due to the drop in business.

Many consumers feel that choosing a mover is an easy task. It can be effortless, but how sure are consumers that they are getting exactly the services they need? After all it is not like ordering a sandwich. Consumer advocates say that even the savviest shopper may encounter hidden fees, stolen & broken items, and bad estimates.

When your clients are making a move, there are several things to watch out for that can increase the cost of the move and lead to more stress:

Estimates that are too low. Shady companies use low pricing to secure a job and then demand more money on the day of delivery.
Proper licensing. Rogue movers often operate without proper licensing, use rented trucks and might not have an actual office making them harder to track in the event of a problem.
Complaints. It is important to check with the Better Business Bureau before choosing a mover to ensure that they are reputable. Too many claims are not a good sign.
Money up front. A company that asks for a cash deposit or payment in full before the move takes place may not finish the job. No reputable company asks for money up front.

We are entering the summer months which is an extremely busy time in the moving industry. Consumers should be extra careful when choosing a company to assist them and their family move. Working with an unscrupulous mover can add thousands of dollars to the cost, and unwanted stress.

For more information, call Mickey Matteson, Account Executive at 800-617-1918 or visit www.moveadvocate.com.

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