Business ProfileforAffordable Moving Solutions

On November 23rd, 2020 BBB Serving the Atlantic Provinces sent a letter to Affordable Moving Solutions requesting information on the business.

Having received no response, BBB sent a second letter on December 8th, 2020.

This letter was also not responded to. Neither letter was returned as undeliverable.

These letters were sent in response to telephone inquiries as well as complaints filed against the business.

The complaints detailed unprofessional and incompetent moving staff causing damage to furniture as well to the walls, ceilings, and floors of the homes of the consumers. When the business owner was contacted regarding these issues, assurances that the damage would be covered by insurance were given but never fulfilled.

One complainant stated that the movers arrived much later than agreed upon and that, rather than the three workers promised, only two arrived to do the move. This caused stress to the consumer who was coordinating the sale and purchase of homes.

Again, the workers damaged the furniture and the homes and again insurance compensation was promised but after many attempts by the consumer to contact the business which the business ignored; the insurance monies were never received.

Another consumer complained that the insurance policy for which he paid extra was not honoured when he made a claim on items that were broken during the move. The owner of the business did not respond to several inquires by the consumer regarding the insurance claim.

BBB offers the following tips on preparing for a move, finding a trustworthy moving company, and avoiding scams:

Do your research. Look up Business Profiles for moving companies on BBB.org.
The Canadian Association of Movers (CAM) also identify movers that have pledged to uphold high standards of trust and to resolve complaints quickly. Many movers that are BBB Accredited Businesses are also CAM Members. Note the length of time a company has been in business and read reviews from previous customers.

Verify the mover's claims, credentials, and professional memberships. Scammers and fly-by-night operators won't be able to substantiate a good reputation. Ask for proof of licenses, insurance, etc.

Get it in writing. Get three written estimates from different movers based on visits to your home. Though most professional movers do give quotes over the phone, it’s still a good idea to get written documentation of all the services you are receiving. If an estimate seems too good to be true, it likely is. If at any point the services change, whether on your part or the part of the professional, ensure that these changes are documented and understood by both parties.

Talk about the money.   Find out how and when payment is required.  Many companies require up to a 10% deposit to secure your moving date and require payment before your belongings are delivered. Find out what your payment options are and what method of payment is available.  Let your bank know that you are in the process of relocating in the event they notice increased or unusual charges on your credit card.

Prepare for damage. Even though trustworthy movers are trained to handle your belongings and your home with care, it is difficult to move an entire household without at least some damage. Be sure to inquire about inadmissible and non-protected items, such as hazardous materials, jewelry, currency and others. Determine what is covered under your homeowners’ insurance policy and what is/is not covered under your replacement valuation protection. If you are arranging for other workers to be in and out of your home, consider documenting the conditions before and after access, in the event any property damage takes place.

Protect your possessions. Make sure that your mover provides full-value protection insurance for any lost or damaged possessions. Note that insurance is by the pound, so expensive items such as a flat-panel television may need additional replacement cost coverage in case they are damaged in transit. Find out what your household insurance will and won't cover during a move.

Take your valuables with you. Cash, coins, jewelry, photographs, and important papers should be taken with you or shipped separately using a shipping service with tracking numbers and insurance.

Some "red flags" to watch for when hiring movers include:

Movers who demand cash or a large deposit before the move.

Company websites that have no address and no information about a mover's registration or insurance.

Movers who claim all items are covered by their insurance.