Avoid Choice Vanlines, and We Haul Moving Services.
I hired Choice Vanlines for my interstate move. Before signing, I went through my inventory with their salesperson, Rachell, by phone and video, and received an estimate
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I hired Choice Vanlines for my interstate move. Before signing, I went through my inventory with their salesperson, Rachell, by phone and video, and received an estimate of $9,550. Rachell also told me that Choice Vanlines was the carrier, which was an important reason I chose them.
On moving day, however, We Haul Moving Services showed up to perform the move.
At pickup, We Haul blamed Choice Vanlines for preparing an inadequate estimate and emphasized that Choice was only the broker. For example, although I had disclosed a “twin bed,” Choice failed to include its dimensions, and We Haul then used that omission to add cubic footage and increase the price. Throughout the dispute, the two companies appeared to shift responsibility back and forth, leaving me caught between them while the price continued to increase.
The price increased from $9,550 to more than $15,000.
When I contacted Rachell, she told me her quote was only an estimate and that she was not accountable for the final price. This was extremely frustrating because I had relied on the inventory process, video walkthrough and what she told me before paying my deposit.
I refused the major increase and asked We Haul to stay within the original cubic footage. The loading was poorly organized, with portions of bed frames loaded while matching pieces were left behind. I was also charged approximately $1,991.25 for packing/labor. When I asked them to load the remaining bed-frame components so the beds could actually be reassembled, I was told it would further increase the price.
At one point, I asked about canceling the move and paying for the work already performed so I could get my belongings back. The truck door was shut with my belongings inside, which made me extremely concerned about regaining access to my property. When I was going to call the police, a We Haul manager called me, and we were eventually able to work toward a resolution.
If you are considering an interstate mover, get everything in writing before paying a deposit. Confirm who the actual carrier will be and make sure every item's quantity, description, and dimensions are documented.
If you have already paid a deposit and face a large increase at pickup, don't panic and don't feel pressured to accept it. Document everything. Keep your estimates, contracts, bill of lading, texts, emails, photos, and payment records.
I eventually got my belongings back after numerous calls and careful documentation. I also obtained a police incident report and made it clear that if my belongings were not returned within the 30-day delivery period I had been given, I was prepared to file complaints with the appropriate authorities.
I am sharing my experience because I hope it helps someone else protect themselves and know that they still have options.
Based on my experience, I would not use Choice Vanlines or We Haul Moving Services again.
Move size: 3 Bedroom Home
Service cost:
$12000
