Moving can be a stressful experience, especially if you don't know how to identify the best moving company in Charleston SC. It's important to do your research and take the necessary steps to ensure that your move goes smoothly. There are several ways to determine if a moving company is reputable, including checking online reviews, asking for recommendations from friends and family, and verifying the company's credentials. The best way to find out if a moving company is reputable is to read online reviews and look for the best moving company in Charleston SC. Sites like Yelp and Nextdoor are great resources for finding out what other people have experienced with a particular company.
You can also ask your neighbors, friends, and co-workers for their recommendations. If you can't find any mention of a potential moving company online, it's best to avoid them as it could be a sign of a possible moving scam. On the day of the move, make sure that the truck displays logos or names of the moving company. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), all certified moving companies must provide a free quote for the home transfer.
To confirm the credentials of a moving company, visit the DOT website and select “search for carriers”. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau and other online directories to see if there have been any complaints about the company. Reputable moving companies will never ask for payment in advance. However, some companies may request a deposit before handling any of your belongings, especially if you're moving within the same city.
This is done to protect customers from disreputable companies who may try to find more desirable moves. If you're moving abroad, it's common practice for international moving companies to request payment before providing services as they often prepay for ocean freight and destination services. If you're concerned about the legitimacy of a local moving company, contact the State Attorney General's office or a law enforcement agency in your state. You can also contact the State Moving Association in a specific state and request more legal information about the company you're investigating.
It's also important to consult references, get several quotes, and read the brochure “Your Rights and Responsibilities When Moving” provided by the moving company. This brochure explains the two different levels of responsibility that moving companies must provide. If you pack your own belongings, the moving company is generally not responsible for any damage you suffer. If your belongings are being held hostage by a disreputable company, you can contact Move Rescue, a consumer advocacy group that helps in such situations (call 800-832-177).
Finally, you can check with the Better Business Bureau website to see if the moving company is accredited by BBB by typing MOVING COMPANY in the SEARCH field and then refining your search by specifying your city, state or zip code in the NEAR field.
