Friday 29 March 2024

How To Choose Between Moving Companies

When you’re comparing moving companies, you want a service you can trust with all your hard-earned possessions. After all, that heirloom armoire from your great grandmother deserves special treatment. Here are several tips on how to choose the right company for your needs.

Local vs. National

The best place to start is to get quotes from multiple moving companies. If you’re moving across state lines, you’ll want to get some quotes from local movers because they often cost way less and provide more personal service. National movers handle cross-country moves, but local movers usually handle moves within the same state and sometimes even moves between several states. It’s worth doing the comparison. If you are moving cross-country, you can also save a pretty penny by opting to have your stuff shipped and hiring local moving companies to help you pack and load and unpack and unload.

Location

Find out how far each moving company will take you. If you’re going local, it just might be best to go with the moving company that’s headquartered in the city you’re moving to. That’s because it will be much more convenient to resolve issues and finalize the move. They also have a reputation to protect, which brings us to the next item you need to research.

Reputation

This is key. If the quote sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Google for reviews of the companies you’re considering and check their ratings on the Better Business Bureau. Also, consider how long they’ve been in business and whether they’re licensed. Intrastate movers (or movers that move you within the same state) need to be licensed in your state. If they say they can move you across state lines, they also need to be licensed by the United States Department of Transportation. For additional vetting, contact several real estate agents in the area and ask them for recommendations.

Pricing

Don’t just settle for the cheapest quote. That’s because there are scammers out there. Some movers give a rock-bottom verbal estimate, then hit you with a large bill after the move is done. This is called the bait-and-switch tactic. Make sure that your quote is in writing and that you understand whether there will be fuel surcharges or extra costs for additional services. If you feel that a mover is being fishy with his answers, walk away. Ask about insurance too. Do they have it and how much does it cover? Are their workers covered? What is their policy if something gets lost or damaged? Again, all of this needs to be in writing.

Customer Service

Sometimes it comes down to customer service. In the end, you have to work with these people and they will be handling your prized possessions. Moving is already difficult and stressful; choose a mover that has a track record of top quality service and who hires and trains quality personnel.

Moving companies can either make your move more stressful or more seamless. When you do your homework properly before making the selection, you should end up with a moving team that gets you to your new home conveniently and quickly without charging you a massive sum.

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