Here are some tips on hiring the best mover for you so you don’t get taken for a ride.

Got a move in your immediate future? You may feel overwhelmed as to where to start and who you can trust. This is a big sticking point with a lot of people, as they feel a deep connection to their belongings and want to know they can hire someone trustworthy, respectful and careful. Here are some tips on hiring the best mover for you so you don’t get taken for a ride.

  1. Research reputation. No one hires a mover twice if they got sub-par service the first time. They also won’t rave about that mover’s services to friends. This is where reputation goes a long way in the community, so listen to those word of mouth recommendations from family and friends. They’ve been there, done that, and will tell you like it is. It’s simple: if you hear repeated bad things about a particular mover, keep searching.
  2. Check the company’s background. Aside from reputation, you need to check that they’re actually operating legally in your state. This means you have to make sure they are licensed and insured, which provides yet another layer of credibility to their offerings. Ask questions such as: how long have they been in business? Have they won any local awards? What do their online reviews say? Where are they based out of?
  3. Ask about rates. Don’t just ask what prices they charge for residential moves based on mileage; ask what those rates include. Anybody can read boilerplate rates off a chart, but there are often hidden costs and fees within those prices that you could be hit with later. Find out if the rate includes packing and unpacking, fuel, etc. so you know exactly what you’re paying for. Also, some movers charge considerably more for weekend moves than weekday moves, so check if you can save money simply by switching the day.
  4. Find out what level of care the movers will take. Some movers expect you to do the packing of your belongings, acting simply as the muscle when it comes to lifting, hauling and transporting your packed items. Other moving companies will pack up your stuff and protect it with blankets, bubble wrap and other similar supplies so nothing gets damaged en route. Level of care also refers to any measurements taken of doorways, hallways and elevators to ensure your furniture can get out safely.
  5. Look at local vs. national movers. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with movers who are known on a national basis with many headquarters throughout the country, local movers may have more of a commitment to your satisfaction. This is particularly true if they’re active in your local city or town, as this gives them more of a vested interest in how they treat you and expect your repeat business.
  6. Guard against scams. To ensure the reviews you’re reading are legit, take a look at their standing with the Better Business Bureau and other local watchdog sites.
  7. Find out about paperwork. Moving day can be a stressful and hectic time. You don’t want a mover to shove a bunch of papers in your face when they arrive, just when you’re trying to handle logistics. Call ahead of time and ask about what you’ll be signing and what to expect so you’re not overwhelmed on the day of the move.

Following the above tips can put you ahead of the game when it comes to choosing a reputable, affordable and respectful mover that you can trust.

Monmouth County |  Middlesex County   |   Ocean County

Brick – Toms River – Freehold – Old bridge – Mountainside – Westfield – Jackson – Somerset – Monroe – Marlboro – Manalapan