Choosing a moving company you trust with your belongings can be difficult, and we at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK® understand that.
Regardless of the services you choose, we’ve come up with a detailed list of information to gather from moving companies as you’re doing your research. It’s also wise to check with your state’s moving and storage association(opens in a new window) to learn local regulations that apply to movers in your area.
Thinking of moving yourself? It may seem cost-effective to handle everything on your own, but once all of the typical moving costs are added up, choosing to hire a moving company may actually be the smarter choice.
GUARANTEEING SECURITY WITH YOUR MOVERS
1. Is the company licensed? Be sure to only used licensed moving companies. You can check whether a company is licensed by visiting the Department of Transportation’s website(opens in a new window).
2. Are items insured during the move? Movers might be bonded and insured, but that doesn’t mean your belongings are covered during the move. Some states require companies put a valuation of 60 cents per pound of coverage.
3. Does the company have reviews? Look into whether the company is reputable by reading reviews of past customers and checking out the Better Business Bureau(opens in a new window) to determine whether the company is trustworthy.
KNOW WHAT YOU’RE PAYING FOR
1. How do moving companies charge? For example: is it by the hour? Many charge by the hour for local moves, often requiring a one or two hour minimum. Long-distance moves are regulated, and will often be based on weight and miles. Be sure to ask how they charge if you’re moving long-distance within the state or across state lines.
2. Does the company charge extra for larger items such as pianos, large screen televisions, or any extra flights of stairs during the move? This is not unusual, and will vary from each company.
3. What payment options does the company provide? Reputable companies will accept all forms of payment, so be cautious of companies that only accept cash.
4. Is a deposit required? Most reputable companies require a deposit to hold your move, and most deposits are refundable within a certain number of days prior to your move if you cancel. Be sure to ask if the deposit will go toward your move, or if it’s nonrefundable.
5. What kind of cancellation policy does the company offer? You should always be able to cancel or postpone service until a few days before your move without being penalized.
COMMUNICATION DURING THE ENTIRE MOVING PROCESS
1. Do they offer free moving quotes? Never pay for an estimate! For large homes with more than three bedrooms, it’s recommended to get an on-site estimate so you can thoroughly identify all items that need to be moved – don’t forget the basement and the attic.
2. Will the company provide a phone number for a customer service professional or manager who is available during the move if any challenges arise? A reputable mover will provide a contact number in which you can reach a team member at any time.
3. Does the company provide a service window of when you can expect your movers to arrive? Also ask how many movers will arrive and if management or other team members will follow up after your move. On the day of your move, it’s important to have contact numbers of the manager or customer service representative at your fingertips if you need anything at all.
