Careful Movers unknown Scam artists? Jersey City New Jersey

On/about  May 12, 2015, I had a phone conversation with Carlos Lopez at Careful Movers regarding contracting for a move from New Jersey to Connecticut. He stated that he would provide 3 men for the items I detailed (1 air conditioner, 3 folding bookcases, ~12-18 boxes, 1 chest of drawers, 1 microwave cart, 1 microwave and a TV). I stated that the move was from an attic apartment to a house, that I needed the AC unit removed and installed at delivery site, and that most, if not all, boxes would be packed and sealed (all were).  Carlos stated that the movers would need the microwave box, and agreed with all I was requesting.

On May 13, I received a “Binding Estimate” of $410. Since I had received two other estimates in that ballpark, I did not question the amount. Later that day I received a revised estimate based on additional travel expenses, also on a “Binding Estimate” form, of $452, to which I agreed and contracted.

On May 21, 2015, 2 movers showed up to effect the move. Things went relatively smoothly at the apartment, although I did mention to the supervisor that I thought three men were to be involved – he said he knew nothing about it.

Upon arrival at the house, the supervisor proceeded to finalize billing before he would proceed with emptying the truck. The final bill was $872.  I protested that the amount was almost twice the estimate, and received excuses about tolls (OK) and $75. for extra stairs, although I pointed out this did not account for the major jump in fee.

I called Carlos and stated he was running a scam, boosting the price. He kept reiterating that the guys needed to be paid for the hours worked. He did not respond to my statement that 3 men were supposed to be on the job and that he had underbid the expenses. Indeed, the moving rate and travel rate were almost doubled (Moving $255 for 3 men, 3 hours vs $467.50 for 2 men, 5.5 hours [$85. / hr was quoted for both the 3 man and 2 man teams]; Travel $127.50 vs $212.50).

Ultimately, if I wanted my belongings moved from the truck, I had to pay. They would not accept a charge card – although they had done so for my retainer. They would not accept a personal check unless I kept the payee line blank, which I refused. I ended up going to the bank to get the $872 in cash.

My belongings were moved in, although the men said they could not install the AC unit. Then they offered to install it for additional pay, which I refused.

I question whether the above actions on the part of Careful Movers were legal, since they did not abide by their “Binding Estimate.” I believe their actions were a scam to increase their payment unduly. Had they provided the third man they may have operated within the contract they presented me with in the appropriate time frame. They did not; the estimate was grossly underbid.