Moving is already stressful, but it can become a nightmare if you fall victim to a scam. Whether you’re relocating within Buffalo or moving to a new state, shady movers can overcharge you, hold your belongings hostage, or even disappear with your stuff. Scammers often target unsuspecting customers looking for affordable moving services in Depew, NY, promising cheap rates and reliable service but delivering quite the opposite.
To ensure your moving experience is smooth and secure, let’s explore seven common moving scams in Buffalo that you must avoid at all costs.
1. Lowball Estimates That Skyrocket Later
One of the most common scams involves movers offering suspiciously low estimates to lure in customers. After they load your belongings onto the truck, they suddenly increase the price, claiming there were “unexpected extra charges.”
How to Avoid It:
- Get written estimates from at least three different moving companies.
- Avoid companies that give estimates without an in-home or virtual inspection.
- Be wary of any deal that seems too good to be true—because it probably is!
2. The Hostage Situation: Holding Your Belongings for Ransom
Some fraudulent Buffalo movers will load up your belongings and then refuse to deliver them unless you pay extra fees that weren’t part of the initial contract. This scam is terrifying because it leaves you without your essential items during an already stressful transition.
How to Avoid It:
- Always read the contract carefully before signing.
- Look for companies with positive online reviews and legitimate business credentials.
- Avoid companies that demand large deposits upfront.
3. Fake Moving Companies That Disappear
Some scammers set up phony moving companies, take deposits, and then disappear without a trace. They usually use fake websites with stolen stock images and fake customer reviews to appear credible.
How to Avoid It:
- Verify the company’s credentials with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
- Look for a physical address and a valid business license.
- Never wire money or pay via non-traceable methods like cash apps.
4. Unlicensed and Uninsured Movers
Some movers in Buffalo operate without proper licenses or insurance, leaving you at risk if something goes wrong. If your belongings get lost or damaged, you may have no way to recover your losses.
How to Avoid It:
- Check if the company is licensed and insured by asking for their USDOT number.
- Look up their information on the FMCSA website.
- Avoid companies that refuse to provide proof of insurance.
5. Last-Minute Price Hikes Due to Fake Weight Adjustments
Dishonest movers may manipulate the weight of your belongings to increase the final bill. This is especially common with long-distance moves where pricing is based on weight.
How to Avoid It:
- Go for companies that offer binding estimates rather than weight-based pricing.
- Ask if the truck is weighed before and after loading your items.
- Insist on being present during the weigh-in process.
6. Movers Who Show Up with a Different Company Name
Some scam movers change their company names frequently to avoid bad reviews and legal consequences. You might book a move with “XYZ Moving Co.” but on a moving day, a truck with a different name arrives.
How to Avoid It:
- Always check if the company has multiple business names linked to it.
- Search for complaints on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website.
- Confirm the company name matches the one on the contract before they start loading.
7. Bait-and-Switch Moving Contracts
Some fraudulent movers will ask you to sign a contract different from what was originally agreed upon. They may pressure you into signing quickly, hiding extra charges and unfair terms in the fine print.
How to Avoid It:
- Always take your time reading the contract thoroughly before signing.
- Refuse to sign blank or incomplete contracts.
- Ensure that all verbal promises are included in the written agreement.
Conclusion
Moving can be a stressful experience, but falling for a scam can turn it into an absolute disaster. By being aware of these seven moving scams in Buffalo, you can protect yourself from fraudulent movers and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
If you’re looking for trustworthy moving services in Depew, NY, always research companies thoroughly, read contracts carefully, and avoid any mover who seems too eager to take your money upfront. Hiring reliable Buffalo movers with good reviews and proper credentials will save you time, money, and unnecessary headaches.
Stay informed, stay cautious, and enjoy a hassle-free move!
