MOVING FRAUD PROTECTION CHECKLIST

1. Make sure the mover or broker is registered with the Canadian Association of Movers. (CAM) by visiting https://.mover.net
2. Does the moving company know and abide by the Good Practice Guidelines for Canadian Movers?
   Do they provide you with information on customer and mover rights and responsibilities.
3. Are they currently insured? If so, ask for the provider and policy number.
   Does the moving company subcontract out their work? If so, to who?
   Get references.
4. Check the Better Business Bureau for complaint history. https://mwco.bbb.org/
5. If storage is provide, go see the facility to get a sense of how clean and secure the facility is.
6. Does the mover have a Workers’ Compensation Board certificate? If not, you may end up paying for any employee injuries during the move.
7. Keep a close I on your belongings when they are being loaded on and off the truck
8. Estimates must be in writing and either binding or non-binding. If Non-binding (approximations), only difference in transportation costs and unspecified items should effect the total.Willing to accept other methods of payment other than cash
9. If deposit is given, is it held in trust? Is it refundable? Can you please specify terms?
10. Never sign an incomplete document
11. Be sure you understand the moving company’s terms for lost or damaged items. Make sure it is fully explained in the written contract.
12. Be sure to understand the type of liability coverage you signed for.
13. Notify the moving company of all fragile or extremely valuable items.
14. You have the right to be a part of the weighing process of damaged items.
15. Consider negotiating with the moving company to settle a dispute.
16. Do not sign anything you don’t understand.

Ask For and Estimate:

1. Make sure that all estimates are done in your home and not on the telephone.
2. Give movers precise information about all items that need to be moved and notify them of any obstacles that may increase the time of the move.
3. Keep inventory on all goods being placed in the moving truck and put moving labels on all boxes to give movers better direction as to where the boxes are going.
4. Be sure to take notes when speaking with the moving company. Write down who you spoke with and all other important information obtained.
5. Make sure the estimate given is on company letterhead, provides the all company information and clearly states the terms and conditions of the contract.
6. Negotiate – It doesn’t hurt to ask for a better price.