It’s moving season. On average 3 million people move across state lines in the USA annually with most folks moving during the summer months. Statistically, the two busiest dates to move are July 1st and August 1st. If you plan on moving during the summer months and plan on hiring a licensed, reputable and professional moving company, now is the time to start planning and securing your move dates. Most reputable moving companies book out a month in advance during peak moving season.
Get at least three estimates if you are not already familiar with a licensed, reputable mover. Waiting until the last minute to schedule your move may result in the mover of your choice not being available.
The average American moves about 12 times during their lifetime. It’s not surprising consumers fall prey to scam artists. Every year, thousands of complaints are filed with various agencies from consumers who have been victimized by dishonest and often unlicensed moving companies.
You can avoid becoming a victim by educating yourself. Make sure the mover is reputable; ask your realtor, lending institution, friends and relative for recommendations. Ensure the mover is insured including worker’s compensation coverage and is licensed by the proper authority.
Do not hire a mover based solely on the cheapest price. A cheap move often leads to unreliable equipment, limited resources, inexperienced day laborers instead of professional movers, lack of insurance and potentially having the price exponentially increased on moving day. We all know moving is stressful even under the best of circumstances. A professional moving company’s priority is to relieve much of the stress associated with moving. A rogue moving company will only add to the stress. Choose your mover carefully. Never, ever hire a moving company who answers their phone, “moving company”. Reputable business owners always answer their calls by announcing their business name during the greeting.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services regulates and license moving companies performing moving services within the state (intrastate). It is against state law to provide moving services without a license. You can easily check if a moving company is license by visiting https://csapp.800helpfla.com/cspublicapp/businesssearch/businesssearch.aspx
The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates interstate moving services. Moving companies must obtain US DOT authority to move across state lines. You can easily check if a moving company has authority to cross state lines by visiting https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move
Not only are the above-referenced websites an excellent way to ensure your moving company is licensed to operate but these websites provide a lot of helpful consumer tips when moving within state lines or across state lines. Good luck with your move!
Gloria Pugh
AMWAT Moving Warehousing & Storage
850-877-7131
