So you’ve locked in your move date, started decluttering, and even booked in your council clean-up - congrats! But before you put all your worldly possessions into the back of a stranger’s truck, you may want to do a little research on something quite important - how to spot removalists scams before it’s too late.
In an unregulated industry, it can be pretty difficult to tell the pros from the rookies, especially if this is your first house move. But don’t stress, we’ve noted down some of the biggest red flags to look out for so you can dodge the bad guys and hire trusted removalists who’ll actually make your moving experience easier. So, here’s what to look out for when choosing your movers:
1. They look too good to be true
If a moving company has just offered to move your 5-bedroom house for 200 bucks with a free spa trip thrown in there for good measure, run. Alright, that’s probably a little over the top but you know what we mean. If something looks too good to be true, then it probably is; so, any crazy cheap quotes or offers that feel unrealistic, it’s probably either a suspicious company or a complete scam. Either way, stay far away.
2. Immediate quote without any information
Respectable removalists generally need detailed information from you to be able to give you an exact quote for your move, particularly if they’re providing a fixed-price quote. If a company gives you an immediate quote without even asking for an inventory list or checking basic access information, something is definitely up. Larger moves with a fixed quote should also be offering an in-person or virtual inspection, both for your sake and theirs.
Legit movers will want to understand what they’re working with whether it’s a piano, steep driveway, or third-floor stairs-only apartment to give an accurate quote.
3. No written contract
A quick chat and a handshake deal might be the easy option, but it won’t help if your couch ends up on the wrong side of town. If a removalist doesn’t provide a written contract or even a legit ABN (Australian Business Number), that’s a big red flag.
Trustworthy movers will be transparent with their pricing, policies, and business details. If they’re cagey about anything, that’s your sign to walk away.
4. No reviews or completely perfect ratings
Checking Google and Trustpilot reviews has become the norm before hiring for services but glancing over the star rating isn’t always enough. Make sure to read the actual comments to check for fishy behaviour. If reviews are extremely generic, overly polished, or all 5-star reviews, be wary.
No matter how good a company is, humans aren’t perfect and mistakes will happen. If you’re only seeing all 5-star reviews, particularly ones without any real detail about the move then something fishy is probably going on, so it’s best to get your detective skills on before going forward with anything.
5. No accreditation or certification
You wouldn’t trust a dentist or even a plumber without certification, so why trust a removalist without one? If a company has got nothing but their word to go by, you may want to ask yourself why. Without accreditation or certification, your movers are basically just strangers with a van and a couple of trolleys. Reputable removalists will be able to provide you with accreditation, proving that they are trustworthy and authentic.
6. No Insurance options
A professional moving company should have insurance options available even if they are not mandatory. Before committing to a company, make sure you speak to them about insurance options or damage cover. If they dodge the question or don’t offer a written damages policy, that’s a no-go.
7. They use fear or pressure to get you to book
A bit of urgency and encouragement is fine, especially in busy moving seasons, or if you have specific date requirements that you don’t want to miss. But if a company is really amping up the pressure and forcing your hand with a booking that you don’t feel comfortable with, take a step back and think twice.
Moving scams rely on impulse decisions, which is why they will make it seem like your options are now or never, without ever really telling you why. A reliable removalist will encourage you to make well-informed decisions and they will always take the time to answer your questions as needed before booking.
8. Offer incredibly low hourly rates (with sneaky hidden fees)
We all like a bargain, especially when it feels like we could be saving a lot of money. However, when it comes to cheap hourly rates, you have to keep in mind that what you see isn’t always what you get. If companies are quoting exceptionally low hourly rates, it can mean that they are hiding additional fees from you that will be added on, at a later date.
As ridiculous as it may sound, companies can sneak in additional fees for stairs, using protective materials, and delivering room-to-room (rather than just to your door). A cheap option may only be cheap at first glance, so don’t forget to double-check before you book in.
Trust your instincts
The moral of the story really is to trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is. Trusting someone with your belongings is a big deal, especially when you’re paying them money to do so. Therefore, don't forget that it’s okay to ask questions, double-check paperwork, and get multiple quotes. When in doubt, go with a local moving company that has accreditation and authentic customer reviews.
Whilst it may feel like finding a needle in a haystack, when you know what to look out for, finding great removalists is quite straightforward. Here at Holloway Removals & Storage, we’re always striving to be the movers that you can trust. With AFRA accreditation and over 13 years in the industry, we have plenty of experience and knowledge to make your move a successful one. Wherever you’re moving to in Australia, make sure you’re using movers you can trust and stay away from those red flags!
