Don't let moving companies 'box' you in

PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) -- We're coming into the peak season for moving. In fact, more people move between April and September than any other time of year. If that's you, don't get ripped off in the "moving process."

Moving companies are one of the most complained about industries that 3 On Your Side hears about.

"It's upsetting. It's worrisome. It's stressful.

Through the years, 3 On Your Side has had a front-row seat for a variety of moving fiascos. On a recent occasion, a moving company refused to unload a consumer's household goods until more money was paid. With help from the Arizona Department of Public Safety, which regulates movers, the movers reluctantly unloaded the truck without getting a dime more than their contract said.

Tierra Terry is with the Phoenix Better Business Bureau. "We had 1,200 approximately 1,200 consumer complaints just come through BBB regarding movers and moving companies."

Terry said in 2020, those 1,200 complaints were just for Arizona and Southern California.

So, how do you protect yourself?

Research Moving Companies.

"Verify the mover's claims, credentials, and professional memberships. Scammers won't be able to substantiate any good reputation online," Terry said.