Overcharge
My husband and I hired a moving broker (Alliance Moving and Storage), who in turn, hired PackRite Movers to handle our long-distance move. We were quoted a price based on the cubic footage of our items (~1200 cu. ft.) and were told to expect a minor increase based on our actual items. We were also instructed to deposit 1/3 of the total cost before services are rendered, which amounted to $1229.80. On moving day, PackRite Movers arrived with a 26-foot moving truck, which we later learned can only have a maximum capacity of 1700 cubic feet (per the Penske website). The Forman counted our items and estimated 1400 cubic feet before loading. This seemed reasonable, so we allowed him to proceed. When he was finished loading, he told us that it was 1800 cubic feet (despite the moving truck being 2/3 full), and he charged us additional packing materials, which were supposed to be free of charge (with some exception noted in Alliance Moving and Storage's contract). The Forman on delivery even admitted that there was an additional 300 cubic feet of another person's belongings in the truck, but he would not allow me to take photographs. My husband didn't know any better (I was not present at the time), and since we were at risk of losing our large deposit, and we absolutely had to move that weekend, we had no choice but to sign the contract. We were assured that we could submit a claim to their customer service department to rectify the issue. On delivery, we paid the additional $1932 in cash as we were directed, and I submitted a detailed claim by PDF and by mail to PackRite Mover's customer service department. I provided photographs of the moving van, its licence plate, and our items to ensure proof that we were overcharged. I also provided a full copy of the contract. PackRite Movers has dismissed my claim on the grounds that I signed the contract on moving day. I feel this is an unacceptable response. Not mentioned in my claim were the three pieces of broken particle board furniture, which have survived four full moves when I pack them myself. They are not part of my claim because PackRite Movers forces you to sign a contract that waives them of any responsibility if these items are broken. Even if I do not receive a refund, it is my hope that this business is made to stop taking advantage of customers. I did not hire this company, and I would never hire this company based on customer reviews. (The Better Business Bureau even gives them an F-rating.) I was forced to use them because of the moving broker, Alliance Moving and Storage. It is my hope that Alliance Moving and Storage is made aware of these actions and that they think twice before hiring PackRite Movers again. To anyone considering a moving broker: Don't hire one. They do not communicate effectively with the movers (we had numerous issues not mentioned here), and they put all responsibility on the movers. I work with contractors and subcontractors daily, and