Moving is an exciting, but stressful time. Taking additional steps to protect your move is essential to prevent things from going awry. From purchasing moving insurance to screening moving companies, there are multiple ways to protect your move from fraud.

Today we will outline some helpful ways that you can ensure a smooth and successful move with a reliable moving company in Colorado.

Follow These Steps to Protect Your Move

Choose Your Mover Carefully

Don’t hire just anyone to handle your precious possessions. Finding a trustworthy and reputable moving company is the most important step when it comes to protecting your move.

To avoid moving scams, check to see if the moving company is properly licensed. All professional interstate moving companies should have a license number issued by the United States Department of Transportation. Local movers are licensed at the state level. You can check a moving company’s license number and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration complaint history.

Research Valuation Coverage

It’s important to note that valuation coverage is not the same as “moving insurance.” Valuation protection provides coverage for items that are lost, destroyed, or damaged during a move, and it is the carrier’s maximum level of liability.

Before moving, make sure you’re clear on what your options are valuation coverage to find out what it does and doesn’t cover. Don’t assume valuation coverage will entirely protect your belongings. Look at the maximum value that your movers offer. Additionally, make sure you are clear on the fine print as to when the valuation coverage can be applied.

Consider Purchasing Additional Moving Insurance

Regardless of your mover’s level of liability, you should consider purchasing additional moving insurance when moving to a new home. Most options for valuation coverage will suffice for most moves. That said, valuation coverage can be limited and may not provide you with full compensation for any item that is lost or damaged. It may be a good idea to purchase moving insurance through a third-party insurance company just in case.

Take Photos of All Belongings Before Moving

Before packing your belongings, take photos of all of your inventory. This way, if you have to file a claim, you can show a before and after photo of the damaged item. Having photos on hand as evidence will help hold the movers accountable should there be damage during the move.

Watch Out for Red Flags

When hiring a moving company, be on high alert for red flags. A few of the red flags the FMCSA says to look out for include:

• The moving company demands cash or a large deposit before the move
• The mover claims all goods are covered by their insurance
• On moving day, a rental truck arrives rather than a company-owned or marked fleet truck
• The mover does not provide a written estimate or say they will determine the cost after loading

Pack Carefully and Strategically

Finally, the easiest way to protect your move is to simply pack all of your items as carefully and securely as possible. This will help reduce the likelihood that anything breaks while your belongings are in transit. To pack successfully, use the right boxes, packing supplies, and protective materials.

If you hire full-service movers, consider taking advantage of their packing services too.

Protect Your Move with a Reputable Colorado Moving Company

If you're gearing up to move to a new home, there's no better place to turn than Amazing Moves. Since 2003, our movers have been helping relocate families to new homes within and outside of Colorado. We've become a well-established moving company in the metro area thanks to our unparalleled customer service, straightforward business practices, and full-service capabilities

Contact Amazing Moves today to schedule your free in-person estimate with our Denver moving company.