Dispute Resolution: Full and Self Service Moving Companies
By Marissa Emery, Moving Consultant, Truck rental.com Staff
Moving can be a hectic and stressful time without anything going wrong, so when something does happen to take a turn for the worse, it can seem pretty overwhelming. There are many reasons for filing complaints and disputes with a moving company, and you should understand both these reasons as well as how to file claims and disputes. Don’t be afraid to file a complaint or a dispute. Remember, you are the only one who can hold these companies accountable for your things, so don’t hesitate to do so.
Reasons to File
There are multiple reasons that you would file a claim or a complaint. The most prevalent of all reasons, however, is damage to your property. Keep in mind that a moving company has to carry some liability for your goods, so if they are damaged, a claim will recover some of the cost.
You might also want to file a claim or complaint for service that was not on par with a professional mover. This means that you feel that your goods were not treated as professionally as they should have been. If this treatment resulted in damage, then you should file a complaint even more.
When to File
All claims for damage to goods must be filed with the moving company within 90 days of their delivery to your new home. It is vital that you make sure to file before this time is up, because on the 91st day following your move, the company is no longer bound to pay your claim.
How to File: Claims
You should have researched the moving company’s dispute resolution and claims policies before you hired them. When you need to file a claim, this is the process that you would follow. It is important to keep copies of everything you send the company, and it should all be in writing. Send your claims and complaints to the local office for that moving company.
How to File: Complaints
If you have a complaint about the way that the moving company has completed your relocation, there are a few different routes that you can take. The better business bureau is a great place to start. They will keep complaints on file so other consumers can read them. The FMCSA is another organization that will accept complaints and investigate them. Finally, many moving companies’ home offices are willing to take the complaints of consumers seriously. Don’t be afraid to follow up on all three of these possibilities!
How to File: Disputes
A dispute can be the hardest thing to file. If you have a dispute against your moving company, such as if they have denied your claim, then you should file a dispute right away. There are a couple of different organizations that can handle disputes, including the FMCSA and various state consumer divisions. These organizations can help you to understand what is going on, as well as investigating the company you have a problem with.
Overview of Claims, Disputes, and Complaints
Remember, you cannot put a monetary value to your things sometimes, so it is important that all moving companies be held accountable. You are the only person who can do this, and you should not be afraid to file a claim for damage, a dispute, or a complaint. Make sure that you are aware of your moving company’s dispute and claim process before you hire them. This could make your life a lot easier in the end.
