A moving company can make a big difference in your moving experience. The right company will make it an almost pleasant experience, helping you understand many details of the process, providing useful services and more. The wrong moving company, on the other hand, can cost you a ton of hard earned money, damage items, deliver your items late or to the wrong place and completely ruin the experience of moving. A few tips go a long way towards finding the right moving company.
Talk to friends, neighbors and acquaintances to find professional recommendations and tips on companies to avoid. Hearing about others’ past experiences will give you a good idea of who’s good and who’s not.
Shop around. Talk to several different moving companies in depth, comparing their policies, rates and procedures. Ask probing questions; if they take the time to explain everything and listen to your needs, it’s a sign of a god company.
Watch the company’s rates. Knowing the difference between the company’s hourly rate and their flat fees will let you break everything down so you can decide which is better for your needs.
Do not use a broker. These sell your moving needs to the highest bidder and then are no longer responsible for anything, leaving you with a company that may or may not be a good deal. It’s always better to deal with the moving company directly.
Ask questions about the company’s claims policy. Damage can happen, even with the most professional moving service, so find out ahead of time how the process is handled and if extra insurance is required by the company. Some companies will not cover damage unless their movers packed the boxes, so knowing this will put you a step ahead.
Make sure the moving company is fully insured to protect your possessions during transit.
Check with state agencies to make sure the company is licensed and regulated to perform moving services. Checking your local Better Business Bureau is a good idea as well.
Make sure you know the total cost of the move. Hourly rates often do not incorporate travel fees, minimum charge requirements or other hidden fees that can take a big bite out of your checkbook. Knowing in advance what the total will be is the best advice.
Knowing these details will help you choose the best moving service for you and will help you get the best deal, while avoiding costly fees and charges. Remember, shop around, compare, question; that will give you the best idea of the company’s policies, fees and willingness to explain things to customers.