When you find yourself moving across the country, locating the best transportation company for the job can be worrisome. Fortunately, there are ways to verify these kinds of companies for legitimacy. Thanks to the internet, finding the necessary information is easier than ever before. In the case of transportation companies, you should know beforehand what you’re looking for.
Verify USDOT Number
A USDOT (United States Department of Transportation) number is a specific identifier issued by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) for commercial vehicles. It provides the ability to check an organization’s legitimacy, safety rating, and previous complaints. You can check the USDOT number by simply typing it into the FMCSA site. If the company does not have the number publicly available, you can find the information by searching for the company name. Verifying the existence of the number, a good history, and general legitimacy helps you to know the company is safe.
Check for Fraud
Finding fraud can be pretty simple when you know what to look for. Firstly, an incorrect USDOT number is a red flag. If the number is correct, but the information differs from what is found on the company’s website, avoid the organization. These indicators are essential to know so that you can find a transportation company that delivers your belongings as agreed upon.
Check Crash Records
The FMCSA documents automobile crashes and keeps them available to you for two years. These records could show you if there were any deaths, injuries, or even if the vehicle needed a tow, although there were no casualties. This information is valuable in verifying a transportation company because it is critical to understand its reliability. An organization with numerous accidents may not be the best to trust with your personal belongings.
Look at Safety Rating
The safety rating is another vital component to consider because it tells you the government’s impression regarding the organization. You can discern whether to trust the company with your move with three possible ratings (satisfactory, conditional, or unsatisfactory). Although you may have decided based on the previous aspects of verification, it can be a good idea to have a second opinion of the company.
Feel Confident in the Transportation Company
You should be able to place your trust in a professional organization. When you are experiencing a complex event like a move, worrying about the safety and status of your personal items can add to the tension. Rather than worrying about the situation, it is always best to be sure you know what you’re paying for. An organization with a correct USDOT number does not appear to be fraudulent, has a good driving history, and passes the FMCSA safety rating is a company you can likely trust with your move.
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