Miami nights are heating up as May comes into full swing. With the longer days of spring and the impending summer are millions of household moves. The American Moving & Storage Association deems May “National Moving Month” as it kicks off the peak moving season each year. But be cautious as unlicensed rogue movers and scams are ramped up with this increased demand for relocation services.

Several government and consumer protection organizations are involved with handling complaints against movers nationwide. The best solution for such complaints is to be vigilant in avoiding being duped by fly-by-night carriers.

  1. Verification Check – review your mover’s website for a valid physical address, moving company licensure information, a national van line logo/link for Interstate movers, and indication of AMSA ProMover status. You may validate the license number on theAMSA's website and find your local Atlas agent’s information on the Atlas Van Lines website.
  2. Quality Check – search for reviews on places like moving company review sites, Angie’s List, Google Plus and moving associations such as American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) and Latin American & Caribbean International Movers Association (LACMAS).
  3. In Writing – get everything in writing, from your estimate to your contract and bill of lading. If it’s not in writing, discrepancies in agreed upon pricing and services may be more difficult to prove.
  4. On Paper – Federal regulations for interstate moves require consumers receive the “Read to Move?” flyer with estimates followed by the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” brochure and arbitration information upon hire. In-state moves have different local regulations and it is advisable to check with your local moving association or your state consumer affairs office.
  5. Deposit – don’t be taken in by the promise of an amazing deal – with a large percentage down. Some down-payment may be requested to reserve your reservation during this busy season, but large amounts or pre-payment requests may indicate a scam.
  6. Valuation – full-value protection at sixty cents per pound is included standard for interstate moves; however, in-state moves may offer add-on valuation protection against damage/loss – look for this information in your paperwork and review the coverage. Opting out is not generally advisable.
  7. Valuables – retain your legal paperwork, cash and valuables like jewelry and precious mementos close at hand; don’t keep with items being packed/shipped with the movers.
  8. Get their Digits – keep your drivers’ names and phone numbers and write down other valuable tracking data such as the truck number/license plate in case of an issue or emergency.

A-1 Fargo is a proud Miami Moving Company with AMSA ProMover status, LACMA membership and Atlas Van Line interstate agent licensure – and is an Atlas Superior Packing Award winner. Our residential movers are dedicated to quality service and have a reputation for safety and reliability. Be cautious this moving season and trust a mover with a proven record of excellence.