How To Pick A Movers

So, you’ve decided to hire a company to assist with your move. You open up the phone book and there are hundreds to choose from. How do you know who to call?

Doing Some Background Work

The first call you should make is to check with business organizations in order to find out what they have to say about the companies you are considering. Have they had any claims filed? And, what were the outcomes of those claims? By making this your first step, you potentially avoid making a disastrous choice for moving your belongings.

Thinking About the Costs

The second item to consider is cost. Call several moving companies to have them give written estimates for what they charge. Is there any discount for having them pack and ship your items? Make sure you ask what services are included in the cost being quoted. You will need to inform the movers of any unique situations the location you are moving from or to present, such as narrow streets, lack of parking, elevators, or narrow stairs so that if there is an additional charge you aren’t finding out about it on moving day.

Learn About Insurance Coverage Options

Once you have narrowed down your choices, ask about what types of insurance coverage are offered to make sure they will adequately cover your belongings. You may find that some are more open than others to transporting high priced items, and this may further influence who you use. Ask for references and check them. And ask for their DOT license numbers to further verify that they are a reputable moving service.

Asking About Guidelines

After you have made your final selection, you will want to find out if there are any set guidelines they need you to adhere to. For example, do they need you to use their boxes if you are packing yourself? What is the charge for these? If you can use your own, do they have to be certain standard sizes? Are there items they will not carry? If there are changes to scheduled times, how flexible are they? When you reach your new home, will they help set up items they took apart, or is that your responsibility? These are questions you will want answered before signing any final hire paperwork to make sure you are comfortable with the services they offer.

On a final note, you will want to discuss payment options. Will they accept major credit cards, or only cash? Is there a deposit required? When is final payment due? And finally, if damage or loss occurs during the move, how does this affect when you pay? Knowing the answers to these items will make your move much less stressful since timetables and expectations can be met without surprises.