When you’re ready to move, you don’t want just anyone to pack and haul your stuff. Instead, you want to enjoy all the benefits of a trustworthy, experienced mover at an affordable price. Unfortunately, a major challenge awaits you as you make this important decision.
Every year, thousands of people file complaints about their moving company. They mention a range of issues that can vary from inaccurate billing to damaged property. Although no moving company has achieved perfection, you can use the following steps to choose the best moving company for moving your household or business.
Ask Around
Ask your relatives, friends, and coworkers about their moving experiences. Ask them about the moving companies they’ve used and which ones they suggest. To be sure, you shouldn’t base your entire decision on other’s recommendations. Instead, use the opinions you receive to guide you as you shop.
Check Online Reviews
As is the case with personal referrals, online reviews may contain false, misleading, or biased information. Still, you can use such information to help you narrow your search and ask clarifying questions.
Get Quotes
Don’t settle for the first movers you meet. Instead, shop around and get several written estimates from well-recommended companies. Keep in mind that different companies might list their services in different ways.
For example, one mover might offer a “package” that includes numerous services while a different mover may list each component of their service as a separate line item. In other words, avoid the temptation to choose the lowest-priced mover until you’re sure you’ve made an accurate comparison.
Ask Questions
You should ask every mover you consider a set of basic questions. For example, you might want to know how long a company has operated and whether it hires temporary workers or well-trained professionals for its crew. Other questions such as damage prevention and claims processing can help you determine which mover to trust.
Use Intuition
With moving companies, if something seems wrong, something probably is wrong. So, if your intuition sends you warnings, you should pay attention. For example, a lack of timeliness, a requirement for upfront cash, and rented vehicles could signal potential problems such as a moving company that operates only part-time.
Credentials
Before you let people into your home, make sure that they’re fully licensed, bonded, and insured. You should also check to see if a mover maintains professional credentials in a related trade organization. In most cases, you won’t hurt their feelings if you look them up. However, a company that wants to limit your access to such information may have something to hide.
Read Paperwork
Many contracts and policy documents contain fine print that can affect your moving experience. So, read everything before finalizing your agreement. On the other hand, exercise caution if your mover offers you little or no paperwork. You should avoid making an agreement based on a handshake. Instead, ask the company to put everything in writing. That way, you know exactly what to expect.
Ultimately, you’re responsible for choosing a moving company. Still, you can use the above steps to improve your chances of success.
