The first step is to find a truly reputable company. You can start with the Internet and use other sources, such as neighbors, friends, and family. The goal should be to find a minimum of four established companies that have been in business and can provide references.
Call the companies and schedule a time for the carriers to visit and provide a quote. After you’ve received a few different quotes, narrow down your choice by the impression the mover left on you. If a moving company says they will not visit your home to provide an estimate, continue the search.
Ask the right questions
Be sure to ask the right questions of the moving companies you have chosen. You can find out if they will be moving in-house or outsourcing. It is very important that you do not sell the contract to a third party. You can be direct and ask moving companies about quotes you have received.
What services are included in this budget?
Will you do the move yourself or through a third party or subcontractor?
How much does your insurance cover?
Be careful and be sure to verify that moving company workers are bonded and insured. Find out if they have an in-house claims agent or if the insurance claim is through a third party. Knowing that your staff is united gives you peace of mind. Moving can also be stressful for people on the move, and sometimes they make mistakes. A company that has comprehensive insurance is more reliable. You can ask questions about what happens if something breaks and what the claims process involves. The process must be clearly explained before signing the contract.
Be sure to verify the company name, number of years in business, address, and license. You can get more peace of mind by visiting the company office and making sure it exists and is legitimate. Keep your eyes on company vehicles and the storage area. A well established professional moving company in the industry will have the proper logos on the vehicles.
A reputable company should also provide you with references that you can call. If the company is rude and says this is a privacy issue, you need to be careful. Be sure to check the references and call them.
Don’t make the mistake of hiring a company that gives you a budget simply based on cubic feet, and don’t sign agreements until you have confidence with the company.
Limit your choice
Check the internet and make sure the correct information has been provided to you. You can check BBB and other resources like Google+ for reviews. There are also websites and message boards created by people who have been scammed by a moving company. Check the internet and make sure the mover you are considering is not mentioned in any of the online reports. The steps you take now will have a big impact in the future.
Once you have chosen the moving company that you like best, make sure you are clear about the moving rate. We’ve heard stories involving promises of a great low rate for top-notch service. However, on move-in day, the company comes to your door, packs all of your valuables, and then presents you with a contract for a higher price. In this situation, the customer usually chooses to pay more.
Corrupt people misrepresent themselves in various industries, not just moving. In this case, a shady moving company will know that they have a lot at stake and that your move is urgent for you and the other parties involved. Make sure your contact is clear and complete. Big name companies will put everything into the paperwork so that the details are crystal clear. This should include complete information about the charges.
One last tip
A legitimate business will never require a large cash deposit when booking the move. Most established and reputable moving companies get paid after they are done. Never feel pressure to pay in advance. A salesperson who is pushy and demands a deposit in advance is an indication that he is not professional.
The more you plan, the easier it will be to choose the right engine. Think ahead if you have the flexibility. Many of the trusted long distance moving companies could be booked if you wait too long, so ideally five to seven months in advance. The main point is not to wait until the last minute. This will make you more stressful and you are more likely to make poor decisions.
