MILPITAS — A huge issue plaguing the moving industry today is unlicensed, fly-by-night movers. In the past, these illicit operators would mainly advertise on websites like craigslist, but nowadays, many are using high-profile resources like Google AdWords to show at the top of search engine results pages.
When you hire an unlicensed mover, you run a lot of risks. Since they aren’t licensed, if something goes wrong (like damage to/loss of items), you don’t have any legal recourse to recoup expenses. Even worse, some fly-by-night movers have been known to “hijack” customers’ freight by demanding an additional payment before they unload the truck.
To avoid falling prey to an unlicensed mover, follow these tips:
Verify licensing. Prior to hiring, ask the mover for their Carrier ID number with the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS). All moving companies are required to be registered with the BHGS, so this is a reliable form of verification. You can also look up a moving company on the BHGS website: <a href="https://bhgs.dca.ca.gov/consumers/movers">bhgs.dca.ca.gov/consumers/movers</a>
Research reputation. Given the substantial cost of moving, you want to deal with a company that will give you a positive experience. Use the Diamond Certified Resource, social media sites and other outlets to read reviews from a moving company’s past customers.
Get a written estimate. When you get an estimate in writing, you have a clear promise of what your mover will do and what you’ll pay for their services. Keep in mind that an accurate estimate requires an onsite inspection, so if your mover offers to give you an estimate over the phone, you should probably take your business elsewhere.
Don’t make a pre-move deposit. Deposits are not customarily required for moving projects (that’s what the contract is for), so if a company asks you for one, don’t take the bait.

How to Avoid Unlicensed Movers

Learn essential tips to avoid unlicensed movers and ensure a smooth, hassle-free moving experience.

How to Avoid Unlicensed Movers by Chitra Bheeman

By Chitra Bheeman of {BR} Advantage Moving & Storage

Video: Choosing a Reputable Mover


due to the abundance of unlicensed
contractors it's crucial to exercise
caution when hiring a moving company
today we're in Milpitas with diamond
certified expert contributor Chitra
demon of advantage Moving & Storage to
learn more
moving is considered one of the top five
stresses in a person's life and anytime
you have to move there are a few things
that we recommend that you keep in mind
in California our industry is licensed
by the Bureau of household goods and
services so the first step is to make
sure you check that the company you're
dealing with is licensed and that they
are a legitimate business the second
thing that you definitely want to keep
in mind is to make sure that you get an
on-site inspection and get all the
services the cost of all the services in
writing one of the things to keep in
mind also is that there is no deposit
required to book a move you preserve
your move by signatures on the contract
that the mover gives you if anybody asks
you for a deposit that's a clear red
flag and you want to stay away from
those people the cost of a move could be
anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000
depending on the situation so you don't
want to deal with a good boomer in the
industry in your local area
definitely check the reputation of the
company with resources like diamond
certified you have other social media
sites where there are reviews about the
company's written make sure you check
every one of them
you know so on the day of the move you
don't have any kind of stress to deal
with except to get your belongings
loaded up move to your next location and
settle down at your new home to learn
more from local top rated companies
visit our Diamond Certified expert
reports at experts diamond certified org


Chitra Bheeman: A Personal Move

Companies Rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise