Whether you’re moving across town or to another state, a good moving company will help ensure your items arrive safely and without any hassles. The key is to find one that you feel comfortable with and can trust.
The first thing to do is ask friends and family for recommendations. You might also want to look into Google and other online directories to see if there are any complaints about a certain moving company.
Once you have a list of potential companies, you can start asking for estimates. The price of a move can vary widely between movers, so comparison shopping is key.
It’s also helpful to compare companies that offer additional services like storage, vehicle relocation and valuations. These add-ons can make a big difference in the overall cost of your move.
A good moving company will be willing to help you make an inventory of your belongings and any special items. This will help you get a more accurate quote and avoid overpaying for services you don’t need.
Many movers charge hourly rates for local moves and flat rates or line-haul fees for long distance moves. You can also ask a representative about whether you can pay in full or in installments when you sign up.
The best way to know for sure if a company is legitimate is to check their licensing and registration with the FMCSA. This will help you determine whether or not they’re up to date with DOT and MC numbers and any any other pertinent information.
Regardless of whether you hire a local or long-distance mover, it’s important to choose a licensed and registered moving company. These regulated companies are more likely to be on time, maintain reasonable rates and take care of your goods.
In addition to the license, you should also check that the moving company has a physical office where you can meet with the owner or manager and talk over your specific needs. If they don’t, you may not be able to work with them.
Most moving companies will send a staff member to your home or business to survey your belongings, which can give you an idea of the total cost. This will be based on the number of boxes, movers and any special packing requirements you may have.
A good long-distance mover will be able to handle your personal vehicles and other specialty items. These companies typically have top-of-the-line equipment for loading and unloading, and will provide a best-in-class vehicle transport service to ensure your car or truck makes it to its destination in the same condition it was when it left the old location.
It’s also important to find a moving company that offers insurance coverage for your items. Some companies do not, which can lead to unexpected costs when you receive your shipment.
A good moving company will have a professional team of moving specialists that can help you with everything from packing and loading to disassembly and reassembly. They should also be able to help you determine what size and type of truck will best suit your needs.