Moving anytime soon? Hiring the right moving company starts with knowing what to look for and which questions to ask. After all, you’re trusting people you don’t know with your most precious items during one of the most stressful events of your life! It is crucial to do your research so you’re sure to have the best moving company for your moving needs. Let’s begin.
START SOONER THAN LATER
Moving day is stressful enough without scrambling to find a moving company at the fourteenth hour. Do your research early so you have plenty of time to compare companies and estimates. As an unspoken rule, if a moving company is available at the last minute, it’s probably for a reason.
READ REVIEWS- ALL OF THEM!
Online reviews and word of mouth is a good place to start. Ask for recommendations from family, friends and even colleagues. Read reviews from trusted sites like Google, Thumbtack, Facebook, Yelp, Yellow Pages, Nextdoor and The Better Business Bureau.
FIND EXPERTS IN WHATEVER YOU NEED MOVED
You don’t want just anyone transporting your precious grand father clock. If you have valuable items like pianos, gym equipment, or high-end furniture find a moving company with experts who know how to handle them properly. Investigate the list of moving companies. Get to know them by doing your research.
GET ESTIMATES
Once you’ve gathered your shortlist of moving companies, it is time to get estimates. As a golden rule, if a moving company doesn’t give you an on-site estimate, you shouldn’t hire them! If possible, get three in-person estimates before committing. This way you will have options to consider when making your final choice.
ASK WHAT IS INCLUDED
Do you have to pack all your belongings up yourself or will the movers take care of it for you? Will they provide boxes, moving blankets, dollies, and other moving supplies? Are stairs included in the price or will it be an extra charge added on the bill at the end of your move? Ask plenty of questions to avoid unexpected costs on your move day. The more questions you ask the better.
CHOOSE THE PERFECT BALANCE BETWEEN QUALITY AND PRICE
Determine the value of each moving company by comparing quality service versus price. Always remember: Cheap movers aren’t good and good movers aren’t cheap! But a high priced moving estimate doesn’t automatically equal a high-quality moving company. There are many factors to consider- from price, to reputation, online reviews and what is included in their service.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
It’s now time to do some research into your shortlist of moving companies. Meeting with an on-site estimator from a company will give you a hint on how the business operates and if they offer high-quality moving services. Online reviews and estimates are a legit indicator of value, but there’s always more. Moving companies must be licensed, insured and provide workman’s comp for their employees. Double check there license number with a simple search of “Transportation Carrier Lookup”. Many companies operate without the proper license and insurance- again look into it. Even ask for proof of their license number and insurance carriers. A reputable and legitimate moving company will not hesitate to provide you with this information. If the company is hesitant in providing you with this information, stop and run fast! There may also be other requirements, depending on your location and where you’re moving.
FOLLOW YOUR HEART
At the end of the day, trust in your gut instinct. If the moving company estimator shows up disorganized and hair not combed, the company might not provide the quality of service you and your belongings deserve. As long as you follow your heart and listen to your gut, you can trust you’ve chosen the perfect moving company in your city.
