Avoid NYC Moving Scams

Moving your business to a larger or more advantageous location is your chance to expand operations and increase profits. Amid the excitement of relocating, it’s crucial to stay vigilant against moving company scams that could turn your dreams of prosperity into a nightmare. Educate yourself on how to avoid moving company scams to ensure a smooth transition.

Most Common Moving Scams in NYC

In a big city like New York, moving scams are unfortunately prevalent. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) receives an average of 13,000 complaints about moving companies each year, with over 10% of these companies holding an “F” rating due to unresolved issues.

Here’s how to recognize a moving scam before becoming a victim:

• Surprisingly cheap moving quotes: If a moving company offers a quote that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Some deceptive movers lure customers with low estimates, only to inflate the price later by adding hidden fees or claiming additional services were necessary. This bait-and-switch tactic can leave you paying much more than anticipated.
• Large deposits: Be wary of movers who demand substantial upfront deposits. Reputable moving companies typically request payment upon delivery. Paying a large deposit in advance increases the risk of the company disappearing with your money or failing to show up on moving day.
• Lack of credentials and insurance: Legitimate movers are licensed and insured. Fraudulent companies may operate without proper credentials, putting your belongings at risk.
• Fake moving reviews: Some companies post fake positive reviews to appear trustworthy. These fabricated testimonials mislead customers into hiring unreliable movers.

Reducing the Risk of Mover Scams

Protecting yourself from moving company scams requires diligence and informed decision-making. Here are the top tips to avoid moving scams:

• Do your research: Investigate multiple moving companies before making a choice. Consult resources like the BBB to ensure they have a solid reputation. A long-standing presence in the industry is a good sign, as scammers often operate under new, temporary names to avoid detection. When reading reviews, check for consistent feedback on multiple platforms to gauge a company’s true reputation.
• Get everything in writing: Insist on a written contract that details all services, fees, and the delivery timeline. This should include specifics like the estimated weight of your items, the method of transport, and any additional charges. A comprehensive agreement prevents unexpected costs and provides legal recourse if issues arise.
• Be wary of large upfront payments: An upfront deposit is not usually required. If your mover requests this, be cautious. You may want to look elsewhere or pay with a credit card, which offers more protection against fraud than cash or checks.
• Verify credentials: Ensure the moving company is properly licensed by the New York State Department of Transportation and able to provide a Certificate of Insurance upon request. Cross-check their license number on official government websites to avoid moving company frauds and check whether the insurance coverage is adequate for your items.
• Steer clear of low-ball estimates: Get multiple quotes before your move, but don’t be tempted to go with one significantly lower than the rest. Low-ball estimates are a tactic to secure your business, only to demand more money later.

What to Do If You’re Scammed

If you fall victim to a moving scam, act quickly. Here’s what to do:

• Document everything: Keep records of all communications, contracts, and receipts. This includes email exchanges, screenshots of text messages, and photos of your items before and after the move. A detailed paper trail strengthens your case if you need to take legal action.
• File a complaint: Report the incident to the BBB and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These organizations can investigate the company and potentially prevent them from scamming others. Filing a complaint also establishes a public record of the issue, which gives future customers a heads-up about the moving company fraud.
• Notify law enforcement: If your belongings are being held hostage, contact local authorities for assistance. In some cases, law enforcement can intervene to recover your items or bring charges against the scammer.
• Seek legal advice: Consult an attorney to explore your options for recovering losses. Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to compensation for financial damages or lost property.

Make Your Next Move with Confidence

You’re wise to research how to avoid moving scams. Put your mind at ease by choosing UMC Moving. We have over 30 years of experience and have completed over 1,000 office relocations throughout the New York metro area. Our permanent team of 65 full-time employees will ensure your move is seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to request a quote for reliable and efficient commercial movers in New York City.

What Is Record Retention?

What Is Record Retention?

Record retention ensures access to critical documents when needed and helps you comply with legal obligations. From medical records to tax filings, different types of records require specific handling. Learn the record retention requirements that apply to you and implement a solid strategy to streamline your business, save valuable time, and avoid unnecessary legal risks.

Record Retention Requirements

Record retention policies vary widely based on the type of records. Some industries, such as healthcare and finance, have stringent guidelines, while others are more lenient. Here’s what you need to know.

Medical Records

The retention of medical records is regulated by a combination of federal and state laws. While the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) governs patient privacy, the actual duration for retaining medical records is set at the state level.

In New York, hospitals must retain medical records for at least six years from the date of the last entry. For minors, the timeline extends until the patient turns 21 or for six years after the last entry, whichever is longer. For federally funded programs like Medicare or Medicaid, records must be kept for a minimum of five years.

Failing to follow medical record retention laws can lead to sizable fines, lawsuits, and a damaged reputation. That’s why it’s crucial to have a clear policy for maintaining and securely storing these sensitive documents.

Tax Records

Tax record retention requirements are governed by the IRS. Keeping thorough tax records helps you substantiate deductions, prove income, and support tax credits, while poor record-keeping could lead to costly audits or penalties.

For most taxpayers, retaining records for three years from the filing date is sufficient. However, if you omit income that’s more than 25% of the gross income stated on your return, you must retain records for six years.

Employment and Payroll Records

Are you a business owner with employees? Payroll and HR documentation fall under retention laws to ensure compliance with workplace regulations and provide evidence in case of legal disputes.

Employers must retain payroll records, including hours worked and wages paid, for at least three years. Documents related to employee benefits should be kept for at least three years as well. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) records, including logs of work-related injuries and illnesses, must be maintained for five years.

Industry-Specific Regulations

Certain industries have unique retention requirements. Knowing which rules apply to your business is the first step toward compliance.

For instance, financial institutions must comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), which mandates a seven-year retention period for audit and review records. Then, construction businesses should retain blueprints and project documentation for the duration of the statute of limitations to ensure defense against defect claims.

Developing a Successful Record Management Strategy

Well-planned record retention is the backbone of effective document management. The objective is to keep records organized, accessible, and secure. Here’s how to build a viable strategy for your business:

1. Create a retention schedule that meets legal requirements and your business’s operational needs. Clearly define the types of records to retain, the timetable for each record type, and how records should be stored and labeled.
2. Implement secure storage solutions to protect sensitive information. Whether you use physical filing systems or digital cloud storage, prioritize access control and protection against environmental threats like fire and water damage.
3. Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement. Check that records are retained for the correct duration, storage systems remain secure, and obsolete records are properly disposed of. Also, make sure your strategies remain in line with changing legal requirements.
4. Train your employees on retention policies and procedures, how to handle sensitive information, and proper document disposal methods. Well-trained employees are less likely to make costly errors.
5. Plan for secure disposal to prevent data breaches and compliance issues. Your business should have clear protocols for shredding physical documents, wiping data from electronic storage devices, and using third-party destruction services for large-scale projects.

Secure Record Retention Services in New York City

Storing, tracking, and disposing of records in-house may not be feasible, especially for busy New York business owners. Choosing UMC Moving as your record management partner makes all the difference. We offer the following record retention services:

• State-of-the-art facilities: Our 75,000-square-foot, climate-controlled warehouse protects your records from environmental hazards.
• Seamless transportation: We use fully equipped moving and delivery vans to transport your records safely and efficiently to our facility.
• Advanced tracking systems: Keep your records organized and easily retrievable with our cutting-edge inventory management software. Even with your records stored off-site, you’ll know which ones have been accessed, when, and by whom.
• Secure destruction: When you no longer need certain archived records, we handle their destruction in compliance with the law.

Ready to streamline your record management strategy? Contact UMC Moving today to learn how we can help your business stay organized and compliant with record retention laws.

What Services Are Included with a Full-Service Moving Company?

What is Included in Full-Service Moving Company in NYC.

Relocating your business in New York City is no small feat. Between coordinating schedules, managing logistics, and ensuring minimal disruption to your operations, the process can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where full-service movers save the day. These professionals handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on keeping your business running smoothly. But what exactly do full-service moving companies do? Find out here so you know what to expect when you hire professional movers in NYC.

Packing and Unpacking Services

Packing up your office is easier said than done. Systematically and securely packing your boxes is the best way to ensure everything arrives intact at the new location. That’s where the full-service movers and packers at UMC Moving can help. We supply all the necessary materials—boxes, tape, bubble wrap, padding, and even specialty crates for delicate items like monitors or framed art. Our movers don’t just toss your stuff in boxes; we take the time to label everything clearly so unpacking is a breeze.

Speaking of unpacking, we won’t leave you to figure it out yourself. Our full-service moving company offers unpacking services, too, setting up your items according to your instructions. Just point to where you want your filing cabinets or IT equipment, and we’ll take care of it.

Loading and Unloading Services

When moving day arrives, it’s time to load the truck and prepare for transport. If you’ve ever tried lifting a full filing cabinet, you know the job is not as simple as it looks. Our full-service movers are pros at this. We use dollies, lifts, ramps, and other equipment to safely load your items onto the truck. We’re trained to handle even awkward or heavy items without damaging them—or your office walls.

Unloading is just as seamless. Rather than a free-for-all where boxes end up in random locations, our professional movers place everything in its designated area. We’re efficient, careful, and coordinated, which means less time spent hunting for a specific box later.

Office Furniture Moving

Office furniture is a challenge to move. From modular workstations to oversized conference tables, these items often require careful maneuvering to fit through doorways and elevators. Thankfully, our professional moving services include office furniture relocation. This includes disassembly, labeling components, wrapping, loading, and transportation. Upon arrival, we’ll unload your furniture and put it all back together in your new space.

Technology Relocation

Your IT infrastructure is the heart of your business. Computers, servers, and communication systems must arrive safely and be returned to full functionality as soon as possible. Trust our full-service movers to disassemble, pack, load, and transport your tech equipment with precision. Once everything reaches your new office, our movers can help reconnect the equipment so you can get back online with minimal downtime.

Hoisting and Rigging

If your office has oversized or unusually heavy items, standard moving methods might not cut it. That’s where hoisting and rigging come into play. UMC Moving is prepared to handle these challenges, using specialized equipment to safely lift heavy items through windows or over balconies when stairs and elevators aren’t an option. This is especially useful in NYC, where narrow hallways and older buildings often pose logistical challenges.

Transportation Services

Navigating New York City traffic is hard enough without a moving truck in tow. Our full-service movers take this responsibility off your plate. We provide the right vehicles for the job, from smaller moving vans to full-size tractor-trailers, and plan the most efficient route to get your items to their destination. Whether you’re moving across town or looking for full-service long-distance movers, we have you covered.

Storage Solutions

Timing can be tricky during a move. If your new office isn’t ready when your lease ends, utilize our secure commercial storage facility to temporarily house your belongings. Our 75,000-square-foot warehouse is climate-controlled, monitored, and designed to keep your items safe for as long as you need. When it’s time to move in, we’ll deliver everything straight to your door.

Insurance Protection

No one likes to think about accidents, but it’s better to be prepared. Rest assured that UMC Moving is fully licensed and insured, and we’re happy to provide all documentation upon request. This is just another way our full-service packing and moving company ensures a worry-free experience.

Why Hire UMC Moving for Your Commercial Move in NYC?

At UMC Moving, we don’t just relocate offices; we move businesses forward. With more than 30 years of experience and over 1,000 commercial moves under our belt, we’ve earned a reputation for excellence among NYC business owners. Our permanent roster of 65 full-time employees means you’ll work with a highly skilled and reliable team. Ready to make your move? Request a free estimate from our full-service movers in NYC today.

Avoid NYC Moving Scams

Avoid NYC Moving Scams

Moving your business to a larger or more advantageous location is your chance to expand operations and increase profits. Amid the excitement of relocating, it’s crucial to stay vigilant against moving company scams that could turn your dreams of prosperity into a nightmare. Educate yourself on how to avoid moving company scams to ensure a smooth transition.

Most Common Moving Scams in NYC

In a big city like New York, moving scams are unfortunately prevalent. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) receives an average of 13,000 complaints about moving companies each year, with over 10% of these companies holding an “F” rating due to unresolved issues.

Here’s how to recognize a moving scam before becoming a victim:

• Surprisingly cheap moving quotes: If a moving company offers a quote that seems too good to be true, it probably is. Some deceptive movers lure customers with low estimates, only to inflate the price later by adding hidden fees or claiming additional services were necessary. This bait-and-switch tactic can leave you paying much more than anticipated.
• Large deposits: Be wary of movers who demand substantial upfront deposits. Reputable moving companies typically request payment upon delivery. Paying a large deposit in advance increases the risk of the company disappearing with your money or failing to show up on moving day.
• Lack of credentials and insurance: Legitimate movers are licensed and insured. Fraudulent companies may operate without proper credentials, putting your belongings at risk.
• Fake moving reviews: Some companies post fake positive reviews to appear trustworthy. These fabricated testimonials mislead customers into hiring unreliable movers.

Reducing the Risk of Mover Scams

Protecting yourself from moving company scams requires diligence and informed decision-making. Here are the top tips to avoid moving scams:

• Do your research: Investigate multiple moving companies before making a choice. Consult resources like the BBB to ensure they have a solid reputation. A long-standing presence in the industry is a good sign, as scammers often operate under new, temporary names to avoid detection. When reading reviews, check for consistent feedback on multiple platforms to gauge a company’s true reputation.
• Get everything in writing: Insist on a written contract that details all services, fees, and the delivery timeline. This should include specifics like the estimated weight of your items, the method of transport, and any additional charges. A comprehensive agreement prevents unexpected costs and provides legal recourse if issues arise.
• Be wary of large upfront payments: An upfront deposit is not usually required. If your mover requests this, be cautious. You may want to look elsewhere or pay with a credit card, which offers more protection against fraud than cash or checks.
• Verify credentials: Ensure the moving company is properly licensed by the New York State Department of Transportation and able to provide a Certificate of Insurance upon request. Cross-check their license number on official government websites to avoid moving company frauds and check whether the insurance coverage is adequate for your items.
• Steer clear of low-ball estimates: Get multiple quotes before your move, but don’t be tempted to go with one significantly lower than the rest. Low-ball estimates are a tactic to secure your business, only to demand more money later.

What to Do If You’re Scammed

If you fall victim to a moving scam, act quickly. Here’s what to do:

• Document everything: Keep records of all communications, contracts, and receipts. This includes email exchanges, screenshots of text messages, and photos of your items before and after the move. A detailed paper trail strengthens your case if you need to take legal action.
• File a complaint: Report the incident to the BBB and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These organizations can investigate the company and potentially prevent them from scamming others. Filing a complaint also establishes a public record of the issue, which gives future customers a heads-up about the moving company fraud.
• Notify law enforcement: If your belongings are being held hostage, contact local authorities for assistance. In some cases, law enforcement can intervene to recover your items or bring charges against the scammer.
• Seek legal advice: Consult an attorney to explore your options for recovering losses. Depending on the situation, you may be entitled to compensation for financial damages or lost property.

Make Your Next Move with Confidence

You’re wise to research how to avoid moving scams. Put your mind at ease by choosing UMC Moving. We have over 30 years of experience and have completed over 1,000 office relocations throughout the New York metro area. Our permanent team of 65 full-time employees will ensure your move is seamless and stress-free. Contact us today to request a quote for reliable and efficient commercial movers in New York City.