I-Team: Don't Get Ripped Off on a Move

by Dana Fowle Aired May 23, 2016 ATLANTA - May is National Moving Month. Most moves happen between now and September. So let's get you from point A to point B the right way. First you have to pick a mover. Take your time. There are many great moving companies out there. But, there are scam companies trying to steal the name of good movers in order to take your money. Now get a few names of companies then make sure they're licensed. For an in-state move make sure the mover is licensed with the Georgia Department of Public Safety and see the state's report card for that mover. If this is an out-of-state move, or an interstate move, go to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's website where you can make sure the mover is properly registered and you can look for complaints. Now that you've landed on a few names and checked them out, your work is still not quite done. Get three, in-home estimates. The Better Business Bureau says a legit mover will not give a final estimate over the phone or online. All agreements and details need to be in writing. Don't sign a blank form. And don't agree to pay until that move in completed. Finally, check with your homeowners' insurance policy about insuring your move. But as a little assurance, I would ship separately or box and carry some of my own things like nice jewelry, cash, important papers and photographs. Anything really sentimental.