How To Choose The Right Moving Services For Your Needs

Once you’ve gathered a short list of moving companies, it’s time to start comparing quotes. Be cautious of any company that offers a selection significantly lower than the others, as this could indicate hidden fees or poor quality service.

Also, ask friends and family for recommendations — good or bad. And don’t be afraid to use the internet to explore further.

Reputation

Asking friends and family for recommendations and carefully reading online reviews are the best ways to find a reputable moving company. Many people who have had bad experiences will write a negative review, so take them with a grain of salt.

During the estimate, pay attention to how professional and respectful the movers are. If they seem impatient or unorganized, it may be a red flag. Also, be wary of a moving company that asks for a large deposit upfront or requires a cash deposit.

Once you’ve narrowed your options, ask each company for their full legal name, DOT number, and MC license number. Also, ask about their business credentials and history.

Experience

Choosing movers with the experience needed to ensure your move is successful is essential. Checking their experience can be done by looking at reviews online and evaluating whether they have a lot of complaints.

You can also ask potential movers for quotes to see how their prices compare to other companies. Many reputable moving companies must inspect your items in person or conduct a virtual inventory to provide an accurate quote. Lastly, ask if they have insurance options such as complete or released value protection.

Choosing the right moving services for your needs can be stressful. By taking the time to research different moving companies, compare quotes, and make sure they are qualified, you can ensure your move is successful. Beware of companies with meager prices, as they may need to be reputable.

Pricing

Once you’ve compiled a list of potential moving companies, it’s time to compare pricing. Some moving services offer instant quotes online or over the phone, but most require an in-person inventory of your items before quoting a price.

Be wary of low-ball estimates. If a mover’s quote is significantly lower than other estimates you’ve received, it could be a sign that they’re cutting corners or planning to add hidden fees later.

Ask moving companies about their movers’ policies on fuel surcharges, other unexpected expenses, and contract terms. Reputable movers will provide a binding or non-binding estimate in writing based on your belongings’ actual weight and volume. If you cannot choose between the two, opt for the binding estimate so that you won’t be surprised by any extra costs on moving day.

Insurance

As you search for a moving company, you want to find one that offers services that align with your unique needs. This includes the type of move and whether you wish specialty services like storage or disassembly/reassembly of large furniture items. Cost is another critical factor, and getting estimates from multiple companies based on in-home surveys or detailed inventories of your belongings is essential. Be sure to compare quotes to ensure that you’re getting a fair deal and that the price doesn’t include hidden fees.

Finally, read contracts with a fine-tooth comb to understand the cancellation and rescheduling policies, guarantees, insurance options, and payment terms. Also, check the moving company’s website for a Department of Transportation number and verify that they comply with motor carrier regulations.

Customer Service

Whether moving a few blocks down the street or 20 hours across the country, you want to choose a company that offers excellent customer service. Read reviews and ask friends and family for recommendations. Look for a full-service mover who can handle local and long-distance moves and will answer your calls with their dedicated customer support line—not just a generalized automated menu.

Check out their website for details about their services, pricing, and insurance options. And pay special attention to the contracts, which should spell out cancellation and rescheduling policies, guarantees, and estimates, Jenkins says. Finally, be wary of any company that offers an estimate over the phone or online without visiting your home or conducting a detailed inventory.