A moving company is a business that provides services for people or businesses who are moving. These services may include the packing and moving of items, storage facilities, and vehicle rental. Many moving companies also offer additional services, such as cleaning and organizing items. Some also offer a variety of insurance policies for customers to choose from. In order to find the right moving company for your needs, you need to research and ask questions. Some important things to consider are the price, customer service, and reviews.
Start by asking friends and family for recommendations. You should also check online reviews and complaints from previous customers. A high number of complaints should be a red flag. Some of the best companies are local, with offices that can be visited and trusted by customers. These are usually companies with a good reputation, and they have established processes to address any concerns.
Check if the company is licensed and insured. A professional mover should be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and adhere to specific standards mandated by the government. It’s also a good idea to get an in-person estimate before signing any contracts. This will give you an accurate picture of the costs involved in your move. It’s also a good idea for the estimator to tour your home or office to make sure that they’re taking into account all aspects of your move, including any special needs.
Ask whether the mover offers a binding or nonbinding quote. A binding estimate locks in the price once services are performed, while a nonbinding one could change based on factors like shipment weight or extra add-ons and services. If you’re moving a long distance, a binding estimate is generally the better choice, as it will protect your belongings against unexpected increases in cost.
Be wary of a moving company that requires large deposits before the move, says Michael. He recommends putting any deposits on a credit card, so that you can dispute charges if necessary. A good mover shouldn’t require a deposit larger than 20 percent of the estimated total. And it shouldn’t charge you for any services that you haven’t approved in advance.
Finally, if you’re using a moving company for an interstate move, be sure to look up its U.S. Department of Transportation DOT number with the DOT search tool to ensure that it’s licensed to operate in your state and adhering to federal safety regulations. You can also verify a moving company’s license by checking its website. The “About Us” section should detail the company’s licensing, physical address, contact information, and more. A reputable moving company should have all of this information available.
Choosing the right moving company for your relocation can be a complicated process, but it doesn’t have to be. By asking the right questions, you can uncover any red flags that might indicate a less-than-reputable business, such as lowball estimates or lack of insurance coverage. By following these tips, you can be confident that you’re hiring a reliable and trustworthy moving company to help with your next relocation.