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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.
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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.
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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.
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Moving Hacks for a Stress-Free Move
The Local Commercial Movers You Can Count On
Step confidently into your business’s next chapter with UMC Moving, the premier choice for commercial office movers in the bustling New York Metro Area. With a legacy of over two decades, our commercial movers understand the intricacies of corporate relocations and specialize in delivering tailored solutions for your unique needs. Our skilled professionals are dedicated to ensuring a smooth and efficient transition, minimizing downtime and maximizing the success of your move. As your trusted partner, UMC Moving combines expertise and attention to detail to offer unparalleled commercial moving services. Let’s navigate this journey together – contact us today to explore how our solutions can elevate your business relocation experience.
Moving Hacks for Commercial Movers
Navigating a move can be daunting, but with these practical moving hacks, you can streamline the process and reduce stress. Consider these tips for a smoother relocation:
- Color-Code Everything – Simplify the unpacking process by color-coding your boxes according to rooms. This visual cue makes it easy for movers to place items in their designated spaces, saving time and effort during unpacking.
- Folders Are a Must – Keep important documents, such as moving contracts, inventory lists, and contact information, organized in labeled folders. This ensures easy access to crucial information throughout the moving process.
- Use Your Supplies Effectively – Maximize the use of your packing supplies by utilizing items you already have. For instance, pack clothes in suitcases and use towels or linens to cushion fragile items, reducing the need for additional packing materials.
- Pre-Ship, Sell, and Donate Your Items to Drop That Extra Weight – Lighten your load and potentially save on moving costs by pre-shipping or selling/donating items you no longer need. This not only reduces the number of belongings to transport but also simplifies the unpacking process at your new destination.
- Be On-Site When the Movers Pack and Load Your Possessions – Ensure a smooth and efficient packing process by being present when the movers arrive. Provide clear instructions, answer questions, and oversee the loading to guarantee that your possessions are handled carefully and placed strategically in the moving truck.
- Employee Moving Kits – Provide your employees with personalized moving kits containing essential supplies such as labels, markers, and a checklist. This keeps the packing process organized and empowers employees to take an active role in their office relocation.
- IT Backup and Labeling – Prioritize the backup of crucial digital data before dismantling and moving IT equipment. Ensure each cable is labeled and corresponds to its respective device, facilitating a seamless reinstallation process at the new office.
- Furniture Disassembly Plan – Develop a strategic plan for disassembling office furniture. Keep screws, bolts, and other small parts in labeled bags, and consider color-coding or numbering larger components. This eases the reassembly process and minimizes the risk of missing pieces.
- Communication Hub Setup – Designate a communication hub for employees to stay informed about the move. Use email, internal messaging systems, or bulletin boards to share updates, timelines, and important information, fostering a transparent and collaborative moving process.
- Professional Movers Coordination Meeting – Arrange a coordination meeting with the professional movers to discuss the office layout at the new location. Provide a floor plan and specific instructions for the placement of furniture and equipment, ensuring a swift and organized setup at the destination.
Contact UMC Moving
Enhance your commercial relocation experience with UMC Moving, your dedicated partner in the dynamic landscape of the New York Metro Area. Our commitment to excellence, backed by over 30 years of industry expertise, ensures that your move is not only efficient but also stress-free. As your trusted business movers, we take pride in delivering comprehensive solutions tailored to your unique requirements, from meticulous packing to seamless transportation. Entrust your business transition to our experienced team, where attention to detail and timely execution are our hallmarks. Ready to experience the next level of commercial moving? Contact us today for a consultation and discover the benefits of working with commercial business movers dedicated to your success.
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What Is Office Liquidation?
Office Liquidation Help in the New York Metro Area
Corporate relocation does not conclude once you’ve moved your belongings into your new space. These projects come with the added hassle of restoring your former office setting back to its original form. That’s where UMC Moving comes in with our office liquidation services in the New York Metro area.
Understanding Office Liquidation Services
Commercial relocation requires clearing out your old space to make sure it is left in “broom-swept” condition. If the space is not properly restored, you may face added fees and premiums to cover the overlooked cleaning work and furniture removal. To mitigate these expenses without compromising on your schedule, consider office liquidation services.
The Role of Office Liquidation in Corporate Relocation
Office liquidation allows you to clear out and break down your old office without physically handling the process on your own. Instead, an office liquidation company will return to the former space following your corporate relocation to dismantle any remaining cubicles and furniture and remove clutter and trash.
The Importance of Effective Office Liquidation
Old offices cannot be abandoned once they have been cleared out. Many leases mandate that the space is left in the same condition you received it. Landlords reserve the right to charge extra fees and premiums to cover the extra cleaning work they must do before accommodating new tenants.
Your Office Equipment Liquidation Partner
With over 30 years of commercial moving experience, UMC Moving excels in office liquidation. We recognize the hassle of trying to squeeze extra cleaning tasks into your busy schedule. Our full-service approach eliminates the burden of restoring your old space by handling every part of the project for you.
The Office Equipment Liquidation Process
At UMC Moving, we strive to make the office liquidation process as seamless as possible. To mitigate added stress, our strategic approach includes:
- On-site assessment and inventory
- Tailored office furniture liquidation plan
- Dismantling of cubicles, furniture, and workstations
- Removal of remaining clutter and debris
- Technology and/or furniture recycling when applicable
- Final cleaning
Identifying Common Office Liquidation Challenges
Office liquidation is associated with many challenges that make the process particularly troublesome without a reputable company on your side. These challenges include:
- Tight schedules and deadlines
- Heavy and/or sensitive equipment
- Adherence to strict broom-swept standards
- Time-consuming and costly, cutting into your operational productivity
The Importance of Strategic Scheduling & Planning
No business owner looks forward to cleaning their former space, especially when it causes operational disruptions at their new location. To avoid these hassles, prioritize strategic scheduling and proactive planning with UMC Moving. Entrusting your office liquidation to our experts is a cost-effective way to ensure streamlined results and total peace of mind.
The Benefits of Professional Office Liquidation Services
Investing in office liquidation services with UMC Moving provides many benefits. These benefits include:
- Save time and prevent prolonged operational downtime
- Cost-effective and affordable
- Steer clear of unnecessary fees and premiums
- Lease compliance
- Trustworthy professionals and service backed by 30 years of experience
- Access to convenient storage solutions
Choose UMC Moving for Full-Service Office Liquidation
If you need quality office liquidation services, you need UMC Moving. Since 1992, our company has been a go-to source for full-service commercial relocation, storage, and office liquidation solutions. Merging years of expertise and a commitment to excellence, you can count on our team to get the job done right.
Contact Us to Get Started
Save time, money, and hassle with UMC Moving. From small office supply liquidations and used office furniture liquidation to large-scale cleanouts and breakdowns, we have you covered with office liquidation services for businesses of all sizes and types in the New York Metro area. Contact our team today to get started.
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How to Help Your Employees Adjust to a Corporate Relocation
A corporate relocation in New York City can be a big step for your growing business, but remember that your business wouldn’t be at this level without the team that keeps it up and running. You never want to blindside your employees with a move, so keep them posted throughout the relocation process. Ask them what they like and don’t like about the current office space so you can make the new space even better, and talk about parking and other changes that might affect their daily commute. Here’s more on how to help your employees adjust to a corporate relocation.
Keep Them in the Know
Even if you’re staying within the same city, corporate relocation is still a big deal. This type of move is exciting, so share the news with your employees as soon as you decide it’s time to pick out a new space. It helps to be as transparent as possible throughout the relocation process. Check in with your team and let them know of any updates as they happen so they know exactly what to expect out of the relocation.
Ask for Opinions
If you really want to show your employees that you care about them and their comfort in the workplace, ask for their opinions during the relocation phase. Find out what your employees liked about the office space you have now so you can carry these elements to your new space, and learn about what they didn’t like so you know what to avoid. Workers spend eight hours or more in the office every day, and you have the power to make the workday more pleasant and productive. Ask the staff how they’d like the new space to be set up, what can be done to make them more comfortable, and how you can work together to improve productivity.
Discuss Changes
Change comes with the territory when you move your office, but some changes affect employees more than others. Let them know if there will be paid parking, and work with people whose commute may be affected by the move.
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NYC’s Business Improvement Districts
Getting off the ground can take time for a small business that’s just starting up, but moving to a business improvement district can help. This kind of relocation in New York City helps businesses, customers, and the community as a whole. Watch this video and find out what business owners should know about NYC’s business improvement districts.
New York City’s business improvement districts aim to enhance the community by bringing all aspects of it together. Small businesses, residents of the area, and property owners all stand to benefit in their own ways. Businesses get more attention from prospective customers as well as the ability to network with other owners, property owners can fill vacant spaces with incoming businesses, and shoppers can buy products from local vendors who live in the community. Customers tend to create stronger bonds with business owners when they know they live locally, so the neighborhood thrives.
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Essential Rules of Record Retention
Even though you may have digital backups of your files, your business is still obligated to retain physical records for a certain period of time. The retention process in New York City is easier when you know how long you need to keep your records for, and you can use this information to create a retention policy for your staff to follow. The records you store need to be in acceptable condition so you can refer to them if you need to, which means youâll have to find a way to keep them safe throughout the retention period. Read ahead for a look at the essential rules of record retention.
Know Your Minimums
You need to keep important documents around for a specific period of time, but that timeframe depends on the type of document. Certain documents, like Bylaws and Share Transactions are crucial to your business and should be retained for as long as possible. There are other important documents that come with legal record retention periods. Most documents that youâre legally required to retain should be kept for a minimum of seven years. This includes documentation of credits, income, and employee payroll. You should also hold onto leases and contracts for four or more years after the end of the term.
Create a Policy
Knowing how long you should keep your important documents allows you to set up an effective retention policy. Record retention might not be something you think about every day, so rather than looking up the minimums every time you need to know them, create a retention policy. The policy should outline how long each type of document needs to be retained, as well as when and how you can get rid of documents that have passed the retention period.
Store Records Safely
Part of record retention is keeping your documents safe. Thereâs no use in retaining documents if theyâre destroyed when you pull them up, so consider hiring a professional record retention service for assistance. The pros will keep your documents safe, and theyâll make sure they donât end up in the wrong hands.
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Office Relocation is Our Specialty!
If youâve outgrown your office space, then moving can dramatically improve the way you do business. When a corporate move is on the horizon, you can rely on UMC Moving in NYC. Our skilled team of moving professionals has been managing corporate relocations for more than 30 years, and we remain committed to helping businesses of all sizes execute flawless, stress-free moves.
When you choose UMC, youâll work with a senior management team member, who will walk you through every step of the moving process. We will survey your office and inventory and create a moving timeline for your consideration. Once we begin working on your move, weâll make suggestions along the way to cut your costs and limit downtime for your business. Our extensive moving resources mean that we have the equipment that is necessary to relocate your office efficiently and safely. Thanks to our state-of-the-art communication, we can respond to all of your queries immediately, so you can continue to focus on what you do bestârunning your business.
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Creating a Project Team for Your Upcoming Corporate Move
During your corporate relocation in NYC , having a project team that is focused on ensuring that your move goes smoothly is extremely important. Your project team can work directly with your moving company to minimize your companyâs downtime and prevent avoidable delays.
Watch this video for some advice on selecting your corporate relocation project team. Your team members should have a proven track record of overseeing large projects with impeccable attention to detail and accountability. Once your team is in place, determine how often you will meet with them to discuss things like your moving calendar, packing, and transferring things like phone lines, internet connections, and utilities.