Moving is a stressful situation, so it’s important to invest time in choosing the right movers. Assessing different companies is your best bet to avoid a bad experience. Not choosing the right company might translate into damaged property, late arrivals and billing of unworked hours.
So, here are 6 aspects to consider when hiring moving services:
- Check out at least 3 estimates before going with a company
It might be tempting to go with the first cheap estimate you receive. But it’s important to ask at least three companies for a free estimate. Three is the magic number because if you compare three prices and one is off, you can get an idea of how much a move is actually worth.
Remember the estimate must be done in person as no moving service can give you an actual estimate until they have seen your things. Also, the moving inventory must be thorough. A reputable company will check every room, drawer, cupboard, and bookcase. This is because the estimate of a move is mostly based on the weight of your things and the space they take up.
- Watch for warning signs
During the in-person estimate, you can assess if the company acts in a professional way. For example, if they arrive on time and if they can answer your questions, they’re good. Beware of companies that ask for cash up front, respected moving companies don’t do this. And if the movers show up in a rented vehicle, not owned by them, that’s a red flag. Professionals always own their equipment.
- Confirm the movers are insured
In case anything happens to your things while they are with the movers, knowing they are insured will give you peace of mind. Moving services should have insurance information readily available to you when you ask for it. For full coverage, go for Replacement Value Protection insurance. This means if a damaged item cannot be repaired, it will be replaced for what it would cost in the market today. You will have to pay extra for this coverage, but it’s your best bet. There is also the basic coverage offered by all movers known as Released Value Protection. This one isn’t recommended as the coverage is too low.
- Confirm with the Better Business Bureau
You can research a company’s track record online for free by checking with the BBB. The website is extremely easy to use. You only have to fill in the company name and location. Only consider companies that are accredited by the BBB or have a good rating. You can also check for alerts or complaints here. Bottomline is, if the company is not listed in the BBB, you should stay away from it.
- Confirm the address of the moving service
To avoid scams, look up the movers on the internet and make sure the address that appears on their website is registered under the company’s name. An address listed under a residential name is a big red flag. To fly under the BBBs radar, a lot of companies not only operate under incorrect addresses but might even change their names. Be wary of this.
- Be aware of any extra fees
There might be extra fees that arise from challenges that come up in the move. These can be as simple as stairs or elevators, or as complicated as moving in an area with high traffic or a street where the moving truck won’t fit. These charges are normal but should be discussed when getting an estimate.
