How To Verify You Are Hiring A Legitimate Licensed Moving Company

Moving can either be a chaotic mess or a well-ordered and pleasant experience. It all depends on finding a reliable moving company. With many scams out there, it’s important to choose a legitimate, licensed moving company. In this article, we provide you with tried and tested checks to ensure you get access to highly reputable moving services.

Why Licensing Matters When Choosing a Moving Company

Licensing serves as a confirmation that a moving company has met specific standards, including safety and legal requirements. For interstate movers, licensing with the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) is required by law, with all licensed movers receiving a USDOT number. At the intrastate level, Florida-based movers are required to register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), with registration being mandatory every two years. These two licensing safeguards ensure that both interstate and intrastate moves will meet certain standards, resulting in a stress-free move.

How to Check A Moving Company License At The State and Federal Level

To ensure a prospective moving company is licensed, you can follow these two steps.

For An Interstate Move

For nationwide moving services, you’ll need to acquire the company’s operating name and its USDOT number. You’ll then visit the Federal Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website to search for their USDOT number to protect your move. If your prospective moving company can’t issue you with their USDOT number, don’t use them. Once you’ve confirmed that they have an ‘active’ status, you then know they’re registered.

For An Intrastate Move

If you’re moving within the State of Florida, you’ll need to visit the myfloridalicense.com portal to look up the moving company’s name, license number, or location. Once again, ensure that their status is ‘active’ before proceeding with the respective company.

Understanding USDOT And State Registration Numbers

A USDOT number is the gold standard when it comes to identifying a certified moving company in the US. It allows the government to check safety records and compliance updates. A USDOT number is required by law in the state of Florida, adding to its importance. USDOT numbers need to be visible on both sides of all moving vehicles and should have a minimum letter height of 2 inches. The FDACS is a regulatory body that requires all Florida-based moving companies to be registered. Be sure to acquire a company’s IM number to ensure they’re registered before proceeding with a move.

Red Flags That Indicate an Unlicensed Or Scam Moving Company

Scammers utilize several ‘red flag’ tactics that you should be aware of.

Large Up-Front Deposit

Reputable movers generally ask for a deposit to secure their moving services, which usually sits around the 30% mark. If a company requires a 50% or higher deposit in the form of cash or wire transfer, then take it as a big warning sign.

No Physical Address Or Contact Details

Legitimate moving companies will always have a registered address and reachable contact information. This provides accountability and peace of mind if there is a need for any comeback. If you can’t find their location or reach them, then look elsewhere.

Over-The-Phone Estimate

Although it’s tempting to receive a quick telephonic estimate, this isn’t how professional moving companies work. An in-person visual survey is vital in order for a company to provide you with a detailed estimate. This also gives you the opportunity to get a feel for the company based on their level of in-person professionalism.

Pressured Sales Tactics

Deciding on a moving company should never be a pressured exercise. If a prospective company is making unrealistic promises and placing a sense of urgency on a deposit to secure a move, then turn the other way.

How Insurance And Bonding Protect You During A Move

Licensed movers are legally required to carry insurance. Without this, you may be held personally liable for any injury or breakages during the move. You should be able to take advantage of two types of insurance.

Released Value Protection

As a more affordable option, it’s generally included in your moving fee and provides limited protection. This level of protection covers items based on weight instead of their actual value, so if you have several high-value items, released value protection may not be substantial enough.

Full-Value Protection

Full-value protection is a premium offering that places full responsibility on the moving company in the event of damage or loss. The licensed moving company will need to either repair the item, replace it with a similar item, or offer a cash settlement in alignment with the current market value.

Questions to Ask Before Signing A Moving Contract

Be sure to ask these questions before putting pen to paper.

• Can you provide me with your USDOT number?
• Can you provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?
• How do you handle claims for missing or broken items?
• Do you offer an in-person visual survey before providing an estimate?
• What are your payment terms?
• What provisions do you take to protect my home or business during a move?

Written Estimates And Why Verbal Quotes Are a Risk

Federal law requires a registered moving company to provide a written estimate. Moving company estimates are based on thorough surveys to correctly itemize a home or business’s contents and moving service requirements. If you accept a verbal quote, it’s guaranteed that the price you’ve been given won’t be the price you end up paying, as there’s a high chance it’s a scam.

Final Checklist Before Booking A Licensed Moving Company

Prioritizing a final checklist will ensure you find a reputable moving company.

• Have you verified the USDOT number?
• Have you confirmed their physical address and made contact with them?
• Are you aware of the levels of insurance protection offered?
• Have you received a booklet entitled “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move”?
• Have you checked online reviews about the company and services rendered?
• Have you been offered an in-person visual survey?

Your Licensed Moving Company In South Florida

At Allegiance Van Lines, we’re fully licensed and insured to offer an extensive range of reliable and stress-free moving services. As a member of the United States Department of Transportation, you’ll easily be able to access our USDOT number. We also offer a comprehensive in-person visual survey to ensure you receive an accurate and fair estimate.

Call our Pompano Beach Allegiance team at 561-210-5120 to book your professional and friendly in-person visual survey today.

Ready to get started? See our full range of professional moving services or get a free quote today.