The most important and often the most challenging decision when moving is choosing a reliable moving company. With numerous moving services available in the market, it’s crucial to do your research before making a decision. Here are 6 things to consider when hiring a moving service:
Are They Licensed?
This is the most crucial question to ask to avoid moving scams and rogue movers. You should inquire whether the moving company is properly licensed. All interstate moving companies must be licensed by the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). You can check the licensing status of a moving service by visiting the USDOT website.
Do They Have Experience with Your Type of Move?
Ask the moving company if they have experience handling your specific type of move.
If you are moving to a high-rise apartment, a multi-story townhouse, or to a major city, with the more concise phrase “the moving company should be well-prepared to handle any challenges, such as parking restrictions, steep staircases, lack of elevators, and narrow doorways. Ensure that the moving company has experience with your type of move.
What Liability Insurance Options Do They Provide?
Before entrusting your belongings to a moving company, you’ll want to ensure that your items are insured in case of damage or loss during the move. Most moving companies offer two types of insurance: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection.
Released Value Protection typically has a very low limit and is usually based on a fixed amount per pound or kilogram of your goods. If your valuable or high-value items are damaged or lost, Released Value Protection may not provide sufficient compensation.
Full Value Protection, covers the full value of your belongings during the move. You’ll be compensated based on the declared value you assigned to your items when purchasing this service.
In addition to liability insurance options, ask to see the moving company’s proof of insurance. A legitimate, licensed moving company should be able to show you their insurance contract upon request.
Clear Quotes, Inclusions, and Additional Costs
Don’t let surprise charges catch you off guard when paying for a moving service. It’s important to understand the costs before signing any contracts.
Tips to ensure you receive clear and accurate quotes:
- Ask moving companies for written estimates: Written estimates are the best way to ensure you have a clear understanding of the costs. Get everything in writing. This includes the estimate, the contract, and any other important details.
- Inquire about all potential charges: Some moving companies may add charges for additional services like packing, disassembly, or handling bulky items.
- Compare quotes from multiple companies: This will help ensure you get the best price.
Binding and Non-Binding Estimates: There are two types of estimates that moving companies can provide: binding and non-binding estimates.
- Binding Estimate: are a commitment that your moving costs will not exceed the estimated amount. If the actual costs are higher, the moving company is responsible for covering the difference.
- Non-Binding Estimate: estimates based on the information you provide to the moving company and are not a guaranteed price. The actual cost can be higher than the estimate.
Payment Terms
Most moving companies require a small deposit when scheduling the move and full payment on the day of the move. If a moving company demands full payment upfront, it’s a red flag. Most reputable moving companies accept cash, checks, and credit cards*.*
Consider seeking recommendations from friends and neighbors and thoroughly check online reviews and ratings of the moving service.
In addition to researching and asking questions, you should also seek input from friends and neighbors about their experiences with different moving companies. They may share insights into the service, pricing, and quality.
You can also check online reviews and ratings to gather more information. Many websites provide customer reviews and ratings of moving companies. Reading these reviews can provide a deeper understanding of others’ experiences.
When choosing a moving company, it is important to trust your gut instinct. If you have any doubts about a company, move on to the next one. There are many reputable moving companies out there, so you should not have to settle for one that you do not feel comfortable with.
