How to Choose a Reputable Moving Company For Your Next Move
Moving to a new home is a major effort, requiring lots of time and organization. You may decide to hire a professional moving company to make the process easier. If so, it’s a good idea to carefully consider some things before you hire the first company you see in the phone book. The following tips will help you locate a moving company that is priced reasonably and reputable.
Your first task is to ask friends, business associates and family to recommend (or warn you away from) a company they have utilized in the past. Once you have some names, it’s time for you to do some research of your own. Take a look at any consumer review websites, such as Yelp.com, and of course, check with the Better Business Bureau. The reviews can help you narrow down your field of choices.
You should consider some questions prior to calling any of these companies for a quote. Firstly, will you have the moving company move everything? Sometimes people hire these companies just to move large, heavy items like pianos. Also, do you intend to do all your own packing, or were you planning on having the movers handle all or part of that job for you?
Regardless of whether you do the packing, the movers do the packing or a combination of the two, your valuables are usually partially protected by liability insurance (typically .60 per pound) by the moving company. If you want everything fully insured, be sure to talk with the movers about any additional costs that will apply for full replacement value of anything that is broken. Also, be sure to inquire about restrictions or limitations that apply to the insurance. Insurance upgrades are often offered by the moving company, but may apply only to items the movers pack for you, or you may have the option to specify which items you want covered with the extra insurance. Some people purchase third-party insurance coverage from their own insurance agent.
To get the best comparison, it is recommended that you request estimates from three different companies. You’ll want to make sure, however, that each company goes about the same method to produce their quote. For instance, if two estimates are from movers who come to inspect your belongings, while the third quotes you over the phone, these are NOT like estimates and should not be compared to each other. If one estimate is considerably lower than the other two, you’ll want to look into the bonds and insurance protection these movers are carrying. The company, not you, should take responsibility for potential injury of the movers. Make certain that all estimates include driving time, gas, mileage, lunch breaks, container size, extra costs for wrapping furniture, renting furniture pads, boxes for your wardrobe, etc. You don’t want to be surprised with extra fees when you get the bill.
One potentially money saving tip is to ask if scheduling your move on a weekday is any less expensive than doing it over the weekend, as some movers charge more for weekend jobs. Be wary of companies that have no physical address, or that take only cash for the move. Nearly all businesses should accept credit cards in this day and age.
You’ll want to hire a local company for moves in the same area or state. Cross country moves have additional regulations and charges that apply. Interstate or international moves should be managed by experts in that field.
The moving business is a competitive one, and this means that most companies will be fairly priced and offer reasonably good service. However, it pays to check into companies further and make sure that the company you are entrusting with your household will give it the care and respect it deserves.
Moving in the Chicago area? Call on . They offer a full range of moving services with a low minimum charge, simple hourly rates and no hidden fees. Their experienced, capable movers work safely and efficiently. This article powered by
