Safety Spotlight: Security Tips for Your Summer Move
Whether moving across town or across the country, a do-it-yourself move using a safe, reliable Penske rental truck may be the perfect option.
For those times when hiring movers is a better fit, Penske’s security experts encourage consumers to take a few precautions to ensure the safety of your family and your cherished belongings.
Scammers, offering seemingly inexpensive moving service, use online message boards, shell websites, social media, and other online listings to attract unsuspecting consumers.
Quite often, the prices and quotes are unclear, and when the movers show up, the scammers may be using unbranded trucks or trailers.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates moving companies and provides information about moving fraud and how to respond to issues after the move.
If you need a full-service move, consider sourcing your movers from the American Moving and Storage Association.
Tips for a Safe Move
- Lock all vehicle doors.
- Secure the rear cargo area with a hardened padlock.
- Park in well-lit areas and under the view of security cameras, if possible.
- Make sure you have adequate theft insurance in your homeowner's insurance policy, while moving to your new location.
- Be mindful of what you post on social media.
- Consider packing and using "tracker tags" in your boxes.
- Take photos of prized valuables while packing for your records
- Take photos of the vehicles the movers are using (plates, truck and trailer numbers)
- Take photos of the rental truck you are driving (plates, truck and trailer numbers)
What can you do if you are the victim of theft or think you've been taken advantage by a moving scammer?
If you are the victim of theft or a scammer using a Penske rental truck, call the police immediately and contact the nearest Penske Truck Rental location.
Provide the truck information, moving company, and any other details such as photos, truck plates, truck number, rental agreement number, etc.
“Move Ahead” Staff