Tips to Avoid Fraud and Scams During an International Move

By International Sea and Air Shipping / January 21, 2020

Moving overseas is indeed adventurous, but do you know that it also comes with a lot of risks, challenges, and, more importantly, the probability of falling victim to scams? Unfortunately, these scams are increasing from day to day, and people who are moving overseas on their own are facing consequences of this scam.

In this guide, you will learn about common international moving scams, reasons why moving scams are on the rise, and ways to protect yourself to save yourself from these kinds of scams during your international moving process.

Why Are Moving Scams on the Rise?

In this digital era, technology is the primary source through which scammers prey on potential movers and find new opportunities to scam them. Creating fake websites has become easy, and false social media advertisement has become lucrative. Such an environment has made it difficult for people to distinguish between a real moving and shipping company and a fraudulent one.

Moreover, the global nature of the internet gives way to scammers operating across borders, which is in itself a big challenge for legal authorities to track their operations and actions.

While there are hundreds of moving scams reported across various nations each year, we have listed here the most common ones people fall victim to:

Twelve Big International Moving Scams of the Year

Shady Brokers

Some brokers may offer you the service at low rates, and in exchange, they ask for a nominal deposit fee. After making the payment, they disappear. Beware of such brokers or moving companies. The best way to assess your broker’s authenticity and credibility is to see if they’re affiliated. The moving company must hold any of the following:

• Membership in FIDI (Fédération Internationale des Déménageurs Internationaux): This group is a global federation of international moving companies
• Registered International Mover Certification (RIM) from the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA): This is a certification that represents that the company is reputable and expert in its services
• Affiliation with Overseas Movers Network International (OMNI): This is a kind of credential that indicates that the mover is a part of the global network of pre-screened and independent international moving companies.
• ISO 9002 certification: This certification showcases that the company offers high-quality services and performance
• Licensing with the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC): This is a mandatory federal license that shows that the company is legally authorized to do ocean freight for your international moving process
• Positive ratings and reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website: The reviews are a good way to understand the customer satisfaction history and its commitment to resolve any complaints promptly and responsibly

Bait-and-Switch Pricing

One of the most dramatic tactics used by fraudulent moving companies is to offer seemingly attractive low estimates upfront. Once the items are loaded and transit begins, the moving company may present vague unforeseen challenges or claim that some items were not included in the initial estimate, resulting in significant additional charges later.

So beware of this kind of scam. Double-check your estimates, and more importantly, choose an international mover who is transparent in conversation and services.

Hostage Load

Sometimes scammers demand higher fees upon delivery, claiming that there are some additional charges or taxes imposed during the move. They hold your possessions and do not unload them until you clear the significantly higher quoted amount. You need to be clear of such fraudulent practices before loading your belongings. The best way to determine is to check reviews and take a consultation before signing up.

Unlicensed Movers

Some dishonest movers operate without a valid license and may also not offer any kind of insurance. However, they attract potential movers with lucrative offers and discounts. One risk is that these dishonest movers may disappear with your belongings during transit, resulting in significant financial loss for you. These scammers are clever and do not provide any legal documentation to report the loss.

Fake Reviews and Ratings

While it is true that reviews help you understand the credibility of the moving company, it is important to ensure the reviews you are reading are not fake. There are several companies that auto-generate reviews falsely to showcase high ratings. If you notice an unusually high number of positive reviews that lack authentic information and seem robotic in language, know that they are generated and might put you into a scam.

Incomplete Inventory

Some fraudulent companies intentionally exclude several items from the inventory process. Later they wontedly charge extra, stating payment for missing items. During this time, you do not have any choice but to pay them to successfully unload your belongings.

Demanding Large Deposits

Note that any mover who demands a large amount of upfront deposit is a huge red flag. A good company will never do that. While most moving companies ask for a nominal advance payment or sign-up amount, securing your booking doesn’t require a large payment.

Weight Discrepancy on Arrival

During price discussions, a salesperson might inquire about your budget and the volume of your belongings. If they can, they will offer a quote that fits within your budget to book the job. But the moving company may say your haul weighed more than it estimated, costing you thousands.

To avoid this uncomfortable scenario, be cautious when a company does not provide an in-house estimate and do not disclose your budget ahead of time. An in-house survey estimate is crucial for accuracy. It ensures the company understands the size of your items and brings the necessary equipment.

Last-Minute Price Surges

Scammers can surprise you with unexpected fees or price hikes at the last minute, leaving you paying a whole lot more than you expected when moving day finally arrives. Real movers offer up-front pricing.

No Written Estimate

Legitimate moving companies always provide a written estimate detailing the costs and services. If a company avoids giving you a written estimate or contract, it’s a clear warning sign of potential fraud.

Fake Credentials

Scam movers might flash forged licenses, accreditations, and memberships to make them seem legit. As always, confirm the legitimacy of such credentials from the issuing authority.

DIY Scams

Scammers might rent fake moving trucks and advertise services at an absurdly low price. If you pay upfront and they load your valuables into a moving van, they can vanish with your items, leaving you stranded without your possessions.

What are the Red Flags to Watch out for?

When you are choosing an overseas moving company, if you find some warning signs, be aware. Some of the common ones are as follows:

• Unrealistically Low Estimates: Sometimes, if the quote is too low, it can be too good to be true. So, watch out and ask why the company is offering such lower estimates than the standard pricing
• No physical Address: If a moving company does not have a physical office or a verifiable physical location, beware of its authenticity
• Pressure to Make Quick Decisions: Take your time, compare pricing, and then take the right decision. If a mover is rushing you to sign up, they may not be trustworthy
• Lack of Transparency: It is important that the moving company you choose adheres to norms of transparency. If they do not explain the charges and process clearly beforehand, it is a red flag. Avoid them and instead look for another one
• No Official Paperwork: Every moving signup should be paper-bound. If the moving company does not give you written estimates, receipts, or mutually agreed agreements, know that there is something that they are hiding, and it might indicate a rising scam

How to Report Such Scams?

If you find that you have been trapped in a moving scam, immediately take any of the following actions:

• Contact Your Local Authorities: Immediately report the scam that has happened to you to your nearest law enforcement agency
• File a Complaint: You can register a quick complaint to the relevant consumer safety agency or fraud reporting organization
• Leave Reviews: You can share your experience with fraud in consumer forums. This will help many beware of the reported company
• Notify Moving Associations: If you have already signed up and the moving service has begun, report to the relevant moving association under which the respective moving company has claimed to be affiliated.

How Do You Stay Safe from Common Moving Scams?

• Research Thoroughly: Look up moving companies on the internet and research their reputation with actual reviews and ratings
• Get Multiple Estimates: You must gather quotes from at least three moving companies so that you can compare and decide which company to pick
• Ask for In-Home Estimates: Reputable international movers generally provide an in-person evaluation when calculating costs
• Review Licensing and Insurance: Confirm the mover’s licensing and insurance information with the proper authorities
• Read Contracts Carefully: Don’t sign anything without fully reading and comprehending
• Avoid Large Deposits: Do not make many advanced payments; pay at the time of delivery
• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels fishy, it’s better to steer clear of signing on the dotted line
• Use Reputable Platforms: You can use only the most popular and reputable moving platforms or companies
• Secure Your Belongings: Keep valuables and important belongings with you during the move

Choose The Right International Moving Company

International Sea & Air Shipping is an international moving company offering door-to-door moving and shipping services worldwide. As a member of prestigious institutions including the BBB, IAM, AMSA, and EUROMOVERS, we pledge quality service.

Whether it’s packing, loading, clearing customs, or delivering to your new home on the other side of the world—we are proud that our teams manage everything door-to-door without outsourcing. Our experienced team and tailor-made international moving services that include such features as professional handling of household goods, car shipping and works of art and antiques, provide an easy-to-rely-on reputable source for all your international relocation requirements.

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