Most people only move a few times in their lifetime, so understandably, they need to figure out what to look for when hiring movers. Getting recommendations from friends and family and shopping around for quotes well before your move date is key.
Consider whether you want to work with a carrier or a broker. Carrier companies have their in-house teams; brokers, on the other hand, outsource specialty services.
Do Your Research
Don’t hire the first company you find online – explore their reputations, track records, and customer reviews. It’s also important to know if they document all their moves and have insurance coverage in case mistakes happen during transport.
Ask friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations. Their first-hand experiences are often more reliable than online reviews, which can be misleading or fabricated. If a company can’t provide proof of license and insurance or has a pattern of complaints with consumer protection agencies, those red flags should pause you. It would help if you also looked for a company with branded trucks, a sign of a professional moving service.
Ask for Recommendations
When finding an excellent moving company, nothing beats a referral from someone you trust. Ask friends, neighbors, and coworkers about their experiences with movers they’ve worked with, and ask them to provide contact information so you can ask questions.
Also, ask if the company has any hidden fees. Many moving companies increase prices on move day by adding extra charges, which are often buried in the contract’s fine print or misrepresented when you talk to customer service.
You can also check online reviews to find out what other customers have said about the company. Remember that negative reviews can give a biased impression, so read a few different sources to get a balanced view. You can also ask the company to give you a written estimate that includes all charges.
Visit https://yourneighbors.net/about-us/ to find a reputable mover.
Get a Written Estimate
When it comes to cost, you want to ensure you understand your move’s pricing structure. A good moving company should provide a complete itemized cost breakdown, preferably in writing and following an in-person assessment of your belongings. Ask if the company offers binding or not-to-exceed estimates and how they work.
It’s also worth comparing quotes to ensure you get the best deal. Be wary of a company that charges surprise fees. Sudden price increases midway through your move are unethical and a sign of exploitation.
Look for a Reputable Company
After researching and obtaining a written estimate, it’s time to look for a reliable company. During your estimate, please pay attention to how professional the movers are and whether they answer your questions. Also, note if they take credit cards and do not require large deposits. Another critical factor is to verify their credentials by checking the DOT and motor carrier numbers on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website.
It would help if you also looked for a company that belongs to a professional organization, as they are more likely to adhere to high service standards. Lastly, ask the moving company how they will protect your belongings during transport and what insurance coverage they offer. This will help ensure a smooth move.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
If the company hesitates to answer your questions or can’t explain its policies clearly, that’s a red flag. A good mover should be ready to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Other things to watch include unmarked trucks (professional movers have branded vehicles), poor online reviews, and a lack of insurance. This doesn’t necessarily mean the company is terrible, but it’s a sign to proceed cautiously.
Also, ask about their guaranteed delivery date, especially if you’re moving long-distance. Most reputable companies will guarantee the arrival date in writing. However, sometimes situations arise that are beyond the mover’s control. Having this in writing protects you from being charged for unexpected delays.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.