Go through this checklist to ensure you hire a reputable mover.
One of the biggest concerns you may have when hiring a moving company is whether or not you can trust them. Your belongings and your home are very personal to you, understandably, and you want them to be treated with care and respect. This is why it’s crucial to research any mover you consider thoroughly so you can be sure you’re making the right choice. Go through this checklist to ensure you hire a reputable mover.
Check on Insurance and Licensing
Double-checking a mover’s license is a wise idea, especially for movers from one state to another where a U.S. DOT number is issued, according to the US Department of Transportation. You can do this by visiting websites like www.protectyourmove.gov. If you are moving within the same state, search for contacts within your state here.
Don’t Just Focus on Low Prices
Moving is an expensive venture, to be sure. It’s understandable you want to save money where you can, but cutting corners on a moving company is not the answer. Keep your priorities in line when asking around for prices. Cheapest price does not a reputable mover make. Sure, you may be saving cash but you’re likely sacrificing elsewhere and may end up paying a lot more in the long run to fix it. Cheap movers may charge you less but they may not take good care of your belongings, may not show up on time, or they may tack on extra fees at the end to your surprise.
Get the Details Hammered Out
Before signing on the dotted line, get an estimate in person. This means you should invite at least three movers to your home to take a look at all your belongs, take measurements, and provide suggestions. It’s wise to learn exactly what level of care the movers you hire will take. Will you have to pack up your stuff and they just haul it from place to place, or do you want them to pack it all too? What will they use to protect your fragile items and furniture, such as blankets and bubble wrap? Make sure they measure doorways, hallways and elevator spaces so there are no surprises later.
Get all the Paperwork out of the Way Beforehand
Because the actual day of moving can be a very stressful time, it’s common to overlook things like paperwork that you feel pressured to sign off on. This is not the time to read all the fine print. At the time of booking, make sure you read through the contract and ask any questions to clarify before signing. Otherwise, you could sign something during the hub-bub of moving day that could come back to haunt you later.
By doing the necessary research and legwork on any mover you consider, you’re going a long way towards ensuring a partnership with a reputable moving company. Don’t skip on these steps; instead, approach the process as you would any company you are welcoming into your home.
