According to a majority of people, moving can be even more stressful than getting divorced or starting a new job. Fortunately, there are local movers in your area that can help make the process go more smoothly for you.
However, how do you know if you have actually found the best local moving company available? What qualities should you be looking out for?
Read on to discover what you should expect from the best local movers in your area.
Ask these movers for their licenses and certificates.
The most important and common one of these is a U.S. Department of Transportation number, better known as a USDOT number.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issues this number to moving companies. Any type of legitimate mover will have it ready for you if you ask for it.
Before you move, make sure that your belongings are properly covered for any accidental damage. All moving companies offer basic protection coverage of your belongings free of charge. However, this coverage level will only reimburse you for 60 cents per pound of should an item be damaged which is never enough to cover the items true value.
Talk with your mover about full value protection before your move. This valuation option comes at an additional cost but if any of your belongings are damaged during the move the items will be fully repaired or replaced at no cost to you. The added peace of mind is well worth the additional cost.
Many local moving companies will either offer non-binding estimates or simply charge you by the hour.
Legitimate movers typically don’t require a deposit before your move. However, the full cost of the move is required to be paid at the time of delivery so make sure you have worked out your desired payment method before delivery day.
Most reputable moving companies will accept any type of payment. Be wary of any company that only takes cash.
Legitimate moving companies will have full-time employees working for them. They should also be screening their employees with criminal background checks and drug tests. Any company that does not have permanent employees may be using poorly trained or non-insured workers.
To learn more about a moving company’s employees, just ask. Reputable movers should carry Workers’ Compensation and should also be able to inform you about what type of training their workers have gone through. If a company seems hesitant to divulge this information or can’t provide you with it, steer clear.
After you know all of the details about these local movers, there is one last thing you need to consider: their reviews and references.
Positive testimonials from customers who have used this particular moving service in the past should not be difficult to obtain if the company is actually as reliable as they say they are.
More often than not, companies will feature these reviews on their website.
However, go a step further. Find other write-ups online about their performance. Get as much information as you can.
If you keep all of these factors in mind when booking a moving company for your next big move, you should be able to find great assistance.
When it comes to your time, money, and possessions, you can never be too strict or demanding. You deserve the best help available.
Do you believe we could be of assistance to you in an upcoming move? If so, contact us today to get a quote!
