How to avoid moving scams

ATLANTA - It's National Moving Month and with good reason.  People move in May once school is out. If you are hiring a mover, though, do your homework.

Moving can be exciting. It's also a time for anxiety. And, quite honestly, moving scams are big. I've covered them so many times. The number one thing you can do is to get recommendations from friends and family - people who've had first-hand experience with a particular company.  However you get a name, you must check to see if their licensed.

If your move is in-state, here's your first stop. The Georgia Department of Public Safety.  GPS has a Motor Carrier Compliance Division. When you visit their webpage you'll see a list of licensed movers.

Now because there are so many scam companies stealing the names of legit companies, check out these websites to keep up on the latest.  The Better Business Bureau, the Georgia Movers Association, American Moving and Storage Association and finally MovingScam.com. 

Now, if you're moving out of state, the rules are a little different. Here's where you go for in-depth information: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.  What you'll want to read up on is insurance requirements and required participation by the company in dispute resolution.

Looking for a mover is homework intensive. You really have to carve out time before you cut a check.

RED FLAGS

• Estimate without seeing your home. No.
• Sign the contract later. No. 
• Refusal to show insurance. No. 
• No license. No.