Relocation poses lots of challenges, especially when one needs to find an optimal moving company according to one’s budget and needs. There are lots of different moving companies nowadays so choosing one can be really overwhelming and even research about these firms can be complicated as there are lots of factors which should be taken into account. Whether you need business relocation, local moving or long distance moving there are multiple factors you should pay attention to. Below you find an overview of the important aspects which are crucial when selecting a moving company which will help you to turn a moving day into a smooth one.
Check the Company’s Reputation
It’s always great to hear honest reviews about a moving firm before starting cooperation. For example, you can check with friends or colleagues what experience they have had with a specific organization. Additionally, you can check on the web for reviews, namely the websites like Google Reviews, Yelp, MyMovingReviews etc.
When you check the company`s references, look at how the clients refer to the work attitude of the movers at all stages of the moving or how they treat any issues and problematic situations. Read carefully through the negative references too and try to understand the situation well and analyze whether it was a client who is too picky and complicated or the company indeed did not fulfil the expectations and hasn’t done the job well. If most of the reviews mention flaws and disadvantages of a company, don’t contact them.
Ask for Cost Estimates
In order to compare the costs of potential moving contractors, it is needed to look at what they offer in the cost estimates. In this regard, go for the firms that don’t give in-person quotes. If the company doesn`t arrange an on-site visit to assess the potential job, this might be a sign of scam, unprofessional or careless attitude.
Look for the Specialists You Require
Look thoroughly at the belongings, household utensils, and furniture to analyze what are your particular moving needs. Should you have any musical instruments or sports equipment, mind that they require also a special approach when it comes to their transportation. In general, moving companies list their specialization on their websites. You can also find lots of useful information when checking the references to understand whether the firm has special skills and personnel you need.
Those special services are sometimes called added value ones. They also include move-out cleaning, customized wrapping and packaging material, or even a rigging system.
Therefore, carefully analyze what you have to relocate by making a comprehensive overview and inventory. Then look at what moving firm would be a best fit for them.
Check Whether Movers are Licensed and Insured
Having compared reputations, quotes, and supplementary services of the potential movers, you shouldn’t forget about verifying their license. The chosen company should be legally authorised to carry out relocations. This means that the firm should hold a license of the Department of Transportation or the Public Utilities Commission. In case of long-distance or international moving, the firm must have even more licenses.
Besides, it’s crucial that the company and its employees are insured and liable in case things go differently than planned and some accidents happen.
In-state Relocation
In case you move within one state, you need to check that the firm of your choice is acknowledged by the Department of Transportation or the Public Utilities Commission. This can be easily checked on the Department of Transportation database where you can find out if the carrier is actually licensed.
Long-distance (Cross-Country) Relocation
In case you relocate to another state, check if the firm is acknowledged by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) by searching on the FMCSA database. The FMCSA also provides data about available insurances and inspections known about the specific business.
International (Overseas) Relocation
In case you relocate abroad, it is recommended to look at the page of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). This organization ensures appropriate regulation of ocean transportation so that the US citizens are duly protected. Therefore, if you plan to relocate abroad, verify in the carrier is approved by this commission.
What else Should One Pay Attention to When Choosing a Moving Company?
When considering a certain moving firm, it is worthwhile to consider much more aspects than those which have mentioned before. In order to pick the optimal moving assistance, you can check with the company several issues. They are:
# Valid registration number;
# Any additional fees (no need to say that one should avoid sneaky charges);
# Supplementary transfers;
# Use of subcontractors;
# Insurance on moving services;
# Availability of packing supplies and storage premises.
What are Important Aspects of a Moving Contract?
Moving contract formalizes the agreements between the clients and movers and includes a lot of details. Among the wide array of things mentioned on a moving contract, one should carefully look at the names, addresses, information about licenses and liability. Besides, this document also enlists the services which a moving firm lends as well as their rates and possible supplementary fees. Furthermore, an important detail is timing which should also be clearly mentioned in a contract, namely time and date of picking up and delivery of your belongings.
Negotiation with a Moving Company
As hiring movers involves quite some expenses, you might want to start negotiation with them to get a more favorable price. Lots of moving firms are open to this so you should definitely try to get a better deal.
To sum up, selecting a moving company can be quite challenging and overwhelming as there are plentiful factors one should consider. It goes without saying that one should do comprehensive research before selecting a potential moving company, its reputation and offer. It’s also needed to think through the moving needs and expectations towards relocation to pick the enterprise that optimally matches your situation.
