Reputable movers have been around for an exceptionally long time. Many are 2nd-5th generation, family-owned and operated. Unfortunately, rogues entered the Canadian marketplace years ago and continue to defraud people. Here is information on how you can avoid moving scams in Canada:
Red Flags to Look Out For:
Low-ball quote.
Rogues will give a low-ball quote to get your money. This will be considerably lower than quotes from professional movers. Additionally, they have slick websites to fool people into thinking they are a professional mover and usually run under multiple names.
Reputable movers spend money on wages for good crews and admin personnel and on- going training. They also pay for Workers Compensation (WSIB) and insurance. They have trucks, equipment, warehouses, and signage for their office.
No physical address on their website, or they have a phoney one listed.
Take the time to look up the address and do a 360 to see if there is signage on the office, and if there are trucks in the yard. Many rogue movers list office buildings as their address. Most importantly, look up the building’s business directory to confirm they are listed there.
Professional movers list their address and contact information on their websites and welcome people to stop by their facilities.
They ask for a large up-front deposit.
Rogues will ask for a large, upfront deposit.
Most professional movers do not ask for a deposit, or if they do, it may be a small one to hold the space during the busy summer months.
No written contract.
Rogues do everything by phone and email.
Professional movers will put everything in writing and do an in-home visual survey of the items to be moved. More importantly, you will get a copy of the list of items they surveyed and a detailed quote of the estimated costs.
Say they are members of a moving association.
Rogues will say they are members of a moving association.
The only moving association in Canada is the Canadian Association of Movers (CAM). CAM pre-vets movers to ensure they have offices, trucks, equipment, warehouses for storage, and a good reputation in the moving industry. Additionally, CAM members are certified and must abide by a professional code of conduct.
Ensure the mover you hire is a professional.
Contact CAM to confirm the mover you want to hire is a member. Secondly, check their website for the latest updates on rogue movers in your area.
For more information on how to avoid moving scams in Canada and to get a moving quote, contact Premiere Van Lines. Premiere Van Lines and the franchise locations across Canada are proud members of CAM and trusted agents for Atlas Van Lines.