64% of moving companies controlled by the DGCCRF have at least one anomaly. Among them, a particularly widespread practice that many ignore being illegal.
Moving often represents a stressful and expensive moment in the life of a home. Between the logistical organization, the administrative procedures and the budget to be expected, families generally trust professionals so that this stage takes place without incident. However, a recent survey reveals that many movers take advantage of this period of vulnerability to charge benefits prohibited by law. These unfair practices affect thousands of consumers each year. The figures are alarming: according to a DGCCRF press release, more than 6 out of 10 moving companies have anomalies linked to deceptive commercial practices or abusive clauses.
At the heart of these irregularities is a particularly widespread and yet strictly prohibited practice: to charge additional costs after the quote has been signed. Concretely, some companies do not hesitate to charge services such as the transport of “not planned” objects, while the prior visit is supposed to identify everything: fees for the parking of the truck, the use of a furniture monte in the event of difficulty of access, or even overtime allegedly necessary to complete the move. Faced with these drifts, consumers fortunately have means of protection.
The DGCCRF strongly recalls that “Any price indicated on the quote is final” And that no additional costs can be claimed without prior modification of the quote accepted by the Customer. To avoid unpleasant surprises, it is essential to verify that the company chosen is registered in the carriers’ register (available on the website of the Ministry of Transport) and to request several detailed quotes. During the prior visit, show absolutely all the objects to move, including those stored in cellars, attics or sheds. Do not hesitate to ask specific questions about any supplements: difficult parking, high floor without elevator, heavy objects requiring special equipment.
If despite these precautions, you notice anomalies on D -Day, know that you have the right to issue reservations for a period of ten days following the move. In the event of a persistent dispute, you can enter the DGCCRF or call on a consumer association. Finally, beware of abnormally low rates which often hide hidden costs: a quality move has a cost, and serious companies do not sell their services.
