Many people are not well informed about their options for hiring a mover in New Jersey. They might think their relocation is in capable hands, just to be caught off guard by service that isn’t as reliable as expected. There are moving brokers, professional moving companies, and unlicensed rogue movers, and knowing the difference between these options will help you find the best relocation service provider.
What is a Moving Broker?
A moving broker is not a professional moving company. They set a bid for your move and connect you with a provider that offers the lowest rate. The broker receives a commission for selling your move, usually to the lowest bidder. This might seem like a good way to move affordably, but there are some serious hazards involved:
- Lack of Industry Knowledge: Many moving brokers know very little, if anything, about the moving process. Therefore, they cannot provide professional relocation guidance.
- No Moving Support: Once connected with a mover, the broker’s job is done, leaving you to navigate the move independently.
- Questionable Movers: Since a broker hands your relocation to the lowest bidder, you’re often paired with an underqualified moving company.
What Makes a Rogue, Unlicensed Mover?
A rogue, unlicensed mover cannot legally provide professional moving services in New Jersey. This can include previously licensed movers who allowed their licenses to expire and so-called “professional movers” who were never licensed.
While great attempts are made at monitoring movers and enforcing necessary regulations, there aren’t enough resources to keep rouge movers at bay. So, you must ensure that the Department of Transportation fully licenses the movers you choose.
The dangers associated with hiring unlicensed movers include:
- Increased Risk of Mishandled Property
- No Recourse for Lost, Damaged, or Destroyed Items
- Legal Liability When Unlicensed Movers are Injured on Your Property
- Possibility of Moving Scams
Moving Scams: Red Flags to Watch Out For
One of the key risks of hiring an unlicensed mover is moving scams. For example, a so-called professional mover might offer a low rate initially, then blindside the customer with hidden fees. What’s worse is when they refuse to deliver the belongings until the fees are paid. Here are some red flags you can watch out for to help avoid moving scams:
- No Physical Address for the Moving Company
- Unusually Low Moving Quotes
- Asking Customer to Sign Blank Documents
- Unlicensed and Uninsured
- Requires Large, Upfront Deposits
Requirements for a Legitimate, Professional Moving Company
Trustworthy, professional movers must meet specific requirements to obtain licensing, either at the state or federal level.
When obtaining a license for conducting relocations within New Jersey, they must register with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs. They must submit a Public Movers and Warehouseman application and provide proof of insurance, including cargo liability insurance and insurance for bodily injury and property damage.
To conduct interstate relocations, a moving company registers with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to obtain a DOT and MC number.
What do Licensed Movers Provide?
Licensed movers are fully qualified to handle specific relocation requirements. For example, if a mover is licensed for out-of-state or international moves, they provide the resources to conduct the move securely.
Additionally, professional movers uphold stringent standards for careful packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, and delivery. You also benefit from a single point of contact throughout the move, receiving expert moving guidance and responsive service.
Another distinction is that licensed movers are insured. This means they are legally obligated to provide partial financial compensation for lost, damaged, or destroyed items. Many times, licensed movers provide full valuation coverage options as well. Moreover, you are not liable if a mover is injured on your property because the moving company’s insurance covers their employees.
Finally, written and signed moving quotes are required for licensed movers, so you don’t have to worry about having your belongings held hostage until you pay hidden fees.
What to Look for in a NJ Moving Company Checklist
It’s easy to verify the legitimacy of a moving company when you know what to look for. Here is a brief checklist to use when comparing NJ moving companies:
- Are they licensed and insured?
- Do they have an in-house moving crew?
- Are they qualified to handle your moving requirements, i.e., out-of-state moving or international moving?
- Do they affiliate with an established van line?
- What is their standing with the Better Business Bureau?
- Can they provide customer testimonials and reviews?
Learn About Our Professional NJ Movers
Reliable Van & Storage is a professional, licensed moving company in New Jersey. We provide streamlined and secure intrastate moving, interstate moving, and international relocation, and every customer receives a personalized moving plan and written cost estimate. Please find out more about what you can expect from our NJ movers by giving us a call today or submitting our online form to get started with an in-home survey and free moving quote!
