How to Check if a Moving Company Is Legitimate When Relocating Across the World

How to Check if a Moving Company Is Legitimate?

Start by researching the company’s credentials and verifying their licenses. Evaluate their online presence by assessing their website’s professionalism and checking their activity on social media platforms. Speak with a real person to ask key questions and watch for red flags like evasive answers or pushy sales tactics. Review the contract carefully, ensuring all services, costs, and insurance details are clearly outlined. Finally, before sealing the deal, double-check the contract, confirm insurance coverage, and verify timelines to ensure a smooth international relocation.

Why It’s Crucial to Verify the Legitimacy of a Moving Company

Relocating across the world is no small feat. The last thing anyone wants is to be caught in a scam or face unexpected costs when the stakes are already high. However, unfortunately, the relocation industry is not immune to scammers.

Beyond avoiding relocation scams, learning how to make sure a company is legitimate is essential for ensuring the safety of your belongings. Even legitimate movers vary in quality, and hiring a relocation company that lacks proper experience and training could result in damage to your relocation inventory. This becomes even more important when moving overseas, as your items will be subjected to longer transit times, potential customs inspections, and the handling of various transportation methods. By finding a reputable and legitimate business, you’re not just hiring movers – you’re providing yourself with a stress-free move.

Research the Company’s Credentials

How to check if a company is licensed and insured – and why is it important? Researching the company’s credentials is your first line of defense against shady movers and surprise disasters. An international moving company that plays by the rules will have the right licenses. For companies operating out of the United States, check for their USDOT number, which indicates that they’re registered with the Department of Transportation. Additionally, licensed moving companies handling international moves should also be registered with the Federal Maritime Commission.

Check Their Insurance and Liability Coverage

Insurance is more than just a checkbox on a to-do list – it’s your safety net for all the unexpected twists and turns that can happen when moving abroad. That’s why reliable movers should offer an insurance policy that covers possible damages during international transit. It means you won’t be left footing a giant repair or replacement bill.

Before signing any contract and relocating to a new home abroad, have a detailed discussion with your movers about their insurance policies. They should walk you through what’s covered, what’s not, and what you can expect if the worst happens. Understanding these options will allow you to make an informed decision, and protect your belongings to the fullest. Remember – suitable insurance helps you surpass anxiety about the move and lets you look forward to all the relocation benefits worry-free.

Check for Customer Reviews and Testimonials

One of the easiest ways to gauge a company’s legitimacy is by looking at customer reviews and testimonials. These firsthand accounts can offer valuable insights into the company’s reliability, professionalism, and overall quality of international moving services. However, it’s important to know what to look for when scrolling through those online ratings.

Not every glowing review is a sign of a stellar business, just like not every negative review means you should cross them off the list. But there are some red flags you definitely shouldn’t ignore when relocating to a new city and scanning through feedback:

• Too good to be true – if movers have an overwhelming number of five-star reviews that all sound similar, it could be a sign of fake reviews.
• Multiple complaints about the same issue – if you start to see a pattern of the same complaint, like damaged goods, hidden fees, or poor communication, take it as a warning sign. A single bad review might just be an unlucky incident, but recurring issues should make you think twice.
• Lack of recent reviews – a business that hasn’t been reviewed in years might not be as active or as reliable as it once was.

At the same time, keep in mind that not all review platforms are equally trustworthy. Verified platforms, such as Google Reviews, Yelp, Trustpilot, or even BBB are generally reliable because they make an effort to prevent fake reviews and ensure the feedback is coming from real customers. These platforms often allow users to respond to reviews, which is a great way to see how movers handle complaints or praise.

Ask for References from Recent International Moves

Sure, online relocation company recommendations are helpful. However, nothing beats the reassurance of speaking directly with someone who has successfully completed an international move with the movers you’re considering. Asking for references from recent international relocations is a smart move to verify that the company is able to help you move efficiently. After all, you need a team that can deliver on its promises when it comes to the complex logistics of moving internationally.

Evaluate Their Online Presence and Transparency

The company’s website is often the first impression you’ll get, and it should offer more than just basic information. Trustworthy movers, such as Schmidt International Relocations, will invest in a professional-looking site that’s easy to navigate and provides detailed information. A legitimate business will take care to ensure their website reflects the quality of service they provide.

Social Media Footprints – A Modern Trust Indicator

Social media has become an essential platform for businesses to interact with customers, and relocation companies are no exception. A transparent and reputable business will have an active presence on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. There they can showcase their services, share customer testimonials, and engage with their audience.

Verify Their Physical Address, Too

While online interactions may be the norm these days, a real-world office location adds an extra layer of legitimacy and reassurance. Reputable movers should provide a clear and verifiable address along with reliable contact information. When it’s time to move, you want to work with a business that has a real presence, ideally one where you could visit or call in person if needed. A physical office also signals that the company has roots in the business and isn’t just a fly-by-night operation looking to make a quick buck before disappearing.

Speak with a Real Person – Trust Your Gut

Speaking directly with potential movers is an important step in determining whether or not they’re the right fit. After all, nothing beats a real conversation to get a sense of how the company operates. However, to get the most out of your conversation, you need to ask the right questions. But what are the most relevant questions to ask movers? Here are a few key ones:

• What is your experience with international relocations?
• What insurance options do you offer for overseas moves?
• Can you provide a detailed breakdown of your pricing?
• How do you manage delays or unexpected issues during transit?

Pay attention to their tone, how confidently they answer, and how willing they are to provide clear, straightforward responses. If they seem hesitant or try to avoid directly answering your questions, it’s a red flag. At the same time, reputable movers won’t pressure you into making a decision on the spot. Instead, they’ll focus on addressing your concerns and giving you time to review your options.

Navigate the Fine Print Wisely

The contract should detail the services the company will perform, which you previously agreed upon. They can include transportation, packing services, delivery, professional overseas vehicle shipping, and so on. Each part of the move – whether it’s packing fragile items, providing insurance, or offering storage units – should be explicitly stated.

At the same time, make sure to look for a clear, itemized list of charges, from basic moving services to any additional fees for special handling. The payment terms should be specified, including deposits, due dates, and refund policies in case of cancellations.

Final Steps Before Sealing the Deal with a Moving Company

Before you officially sign on the dotted line and entrust your belongings to the chosen movers, there are a few final steps to ensure that everything is in order. These last checks will give you the confidence that you’re making the right choice, protecting your possessions, and avoiding unnecessary relocation stress.

Move Smart, Stress Less by Trusting the Right Movers

From verifying credentials to speaking with past clients, taking the time to thoroughly vet your movers ensures a smooth and stress-free relocation – or you can simply choose Schmidt International Relocations. With years of experience, proper certifications, and a proven track record of successful international moves, we offer the reliability and professionalism you need. We can handle every aspect of your relocation, ensuring that your belongings are safe, and your journey is hassle-free. Contact us today for a free quote, and let’s get started!