At Keens Storage Trailers & Containers, your trust and safety are our top priorities. Unfortunately, storage container scams are becoming increasingly common. We want to ensure that you have the knowledge and tools to protect yourself from fraudulent activities. Here’s how to spot storage container scams and safeguard yourself, along with how Keens Storage differentiates itself.
Common Storage Container Scams
- Unbelievably Low Prices
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers often lure victims with much lower prices for comparable containers. Always compare prices with reputable dealers before making a purchase.
- No Physical Address or Contact Information
Legitimate businesses have a physical address that has containers available for immediate purchase. Keens Storage has been at the same location for over a quarter of a century!
- Requests for Upfront Payments
Scammers will ask for partial or full payment upfront, and only with a credit card. Legitimate sellers usually offer multiple ways to pay, including cash or check. Reputable sellers often do not accept credit cards so as to avoid the risk of themselves being scammed. Sellers, too, have been scammed by buyers using a credit card then after the container is delivered, the buyer calls their bank and says the transaction was fraudulent. Then the bank rescinds the money immediately from the seller’s account, without question. By that time, the container has been moved elsewhere and the seller has no way to find the container. So they are out of the container and the money!
- Fake Container Brokers
Be cautious of fake brokers who claim to represent a container supplier but have no inventory or connection to a reputable seller. These brokers often disappear after taking your money. At Keens, we own and manage our own inventory, so you deal directly with us, eliminating middlemen and reducing the risk of fraud.
How to Protect Yourself & Spot Red Flags
- Verify the Seller
Check the seller’s credentials and ensure they are a legitimate business. Are they located where the containers are? Can they send you pictures of the exact containers you are considering buying? Because like a car, containers have unique numbers to identify them so that you know the container pictured and agreed upon will be the container you receive. Also look online for customer reviews, verify they have a valid and unique website, and confirm their contact information. At Keens, we have a proven track record of satisfied customers and a transparent business operation. We are a third-generation family-owned and operated business.
- Visit the Business
If possible, visit the seller’s physical location. This can help you verify the legitimacy of the business and inspect the containers before purchasing. Keens encourages customers to come to their facility and see the inventory firsthand. We have hundreds of containers in Mount Crawford to choose from!
- Ask for References
Request references from previous customers. Legitimate businesses will have satisfied customers who can vouch for their services. Here at Keens, we are proud to provide references and showcase testimonials from our happy clients.
- Different Payment Methods
Keens offers a variety of secure payment options to ensure your transaction is safe.
- Read the Contract
Carefully read and understand the invoice or contract before signing. Are there spelling and/or grammatical errors? Do you get a paid copy of your transaction? Keens provides clear and detailed paperwork for all transactions, ensuring transparency and peace of mind.
- Report Suspicious Activity
If you encounter a suspicious seller, report them to local authorities or consumer protection agencies. This can help prevent others from falling victim to scams.
At Keens Storage Trailers & Containers, we are committed to providing high-quality, secure storage solutions. If you have any concerns or need assistance, please contact us at 540-578-0359 or visit https://keensportablestorage.com.
Stay informed and stay safe!
