Moving scams happen on a regular basis. And even when they don't, uninformed consumers coast through the procedure of hiring a moving company, let's assume that everything will be fine.Sadly, this 'coasting' approach all too often leads to inconvenience and even disaster. Moving companies could be a great convenience, and will take a large amount of the trouble out of relocating your house and family. But remember: whoever you choose to handle your move, you are entrusting with all you own. That's not a decision to take lightly!In that spirit, utilize this guide to help you avoid some of the common pitfalls that consumers encounter when coping with moving companies. These tips can save you a lot of money and heartache.First - A Little Bit of HistoryPrevious to 1980, moving company prices were regulated by the now defunct Interstate Commerce Commission, or ICC. The ICC governed the pricing structure that moving companies were allowed to charge consumers for moving services.In 1980, Congress passed family members Goods Transportation Act. This act deregulated moving industry pricing, allowing movers to issue their own estimates and develop their very own pricing structure. This brought new competition into the moving industry, and with this competition came lower prices and an ever dwindling profit percentage.What Does This Mean For Me?Moving companies are out to make money. With thin income and keen competition, moving companies will have a tendency to do whatever it takes to squeeze just as much money because they can from your upcoming move. Sometimes this may mean hidden fees or extra charges. Other times it could mean out right scams.As a consumer, you'll prosper to be as educated since you can about your moving company and the moving process generally. Below are a few ideas to avoid scams, hidden fees, along with other moving nightmares:Get yourself a binding, in-home estimate. Typically, over-the-phone or over-the-internet estimates aren't considered binding. Your mover needs to inspect your premises and household goods to accurately provide an estimate for you.Avoid companies that show no fascination with providing an in-home estimate, that only accept cash, or that want large deposits previous to the move.Read reviews on the internet. There are numerous of consumer watch dog sites and also user driven review sites that may offer you feedback on your moving company. Google Maps offers a review system, and is usually a good place to begin for information regarding your moving company. In addition, ask your moving company to provide references and be sure to call them. Also, contact your local Better Business Bureau and see if any reports have been generated relating to your moving company.Require a copy of one's Rights and Responsibilities ONCE YOU Move. Federal regulations require that your moving company supplies you with a copy of the booklet through the planning stages of an interstate move.Avoid companies that arrive in rental trucks or that answer their phones with generic responses such as 'Movers'.Avoid companies that list no local address on the website or who are unable to produce any information about their state or federal licensing.Require a copy of one's moving company's insurance certificate.Learn if your moving company charges minimum rates (e.g. the very least billing for four hours of work, irrespective of real time expended), travel expenses, fuel charges, or other fees that'll be included in your estimate.Learn if your moving company is really a broker.A broker creates moving jobs for another company. If you opt to go with a broker, research the company they are brokering your proceed to.Be involved always. Read what you sign. Ask questions. Get everything in writing. The better documented your move is, the higher able you are to safeguard yourself.By the end of day, there are numerous good moving companies on the market. We'd like to believe that we're one of them! But  Take a look at the site here  do have to look after yourself. Applying the tips above will allow you to do just that!