Moving involves making lots of decisions. In fact, you’ll need to make these decisions within a short period of time. From choosing the ideal moving date to searching for the right movers, the entire period can overwhelm you. However, the greatest challenge is choosing the right moving company.
With the thousands of moving companies available, how do you make sure that you choose the right moving company? The following 7 questions will guide you to make the right decision.
Do you have the necessary licensing and permits?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates the operation of commercial vehicles. Although this certification doesn’t guarantee that mover provides quality services, it’s an indication that the moving company isn’t a scam, and meets all the set safety standards.
If the moving company is fully registered, it’s issued with a registration number. You can use this number to check whether there are any complaints raised against the company. Also, if you are moving across the state, you should check whether the moving company needed to facilitate inter-state services.
Do you have the capacity to handle my move?
All mover have different capacities, as well as specialization. Therefore, before hiring the mover, ask them whether they have the capacity and experience to handle your requirements. For example, if you are seeking a moving company when moving a home, ensure that the company has the necessary experience for this kind of move. Moreover, if you have delicate items or bulky items, check to see if the company has the necessary resources to handle such items safely. Although this might be costly, it will guarantee the safety of your items. Making the wrong decision here can prove to be costly.
Do you provide insurance?
Accords to professional movers from Torex Moving Company, this question is very essential. Typically, movers will provide insurance coverage for your items—but at an extra cost. The weight of your items will determine the amount you need to pay for the coverage. Therefore, you must evaluate the value of your items to determine whether the insurance coverage that you get from the movers is worth the cost.
Most movers charge 60 cents per pound—and this isn’t adequate to cover the real cost of the damaged items. Also, before seeking extra insurance coverage, check whether your home insurance service provider provides additional coverage when moving home.
How long will it take you to complete the move?
Before hiring your movers, ensure that you ask them how long it will take for them to move your items. When moving, there are some arrangements that you’ll need to make depending on the time that they will make. Therefore, getting the timing right is essential if you don’t want to incur unnecessary costs and inconveniences. Moreover, you should find out what happens in case of unforeseen delays.
Do you charge any extra fees?
Some movers do charge extra fees, but they don’t declare that initially. Therefore, make sure that you enquire of any additional fees, and when they are applicable. Some movers will charge you extra fees if you have bulky items or if the access to your home is not easy. Also, you can be charged extra fees if the movers have to carry your times by hand for a long distance.
Extra costs can also include transportation surcharges or fuel surcharges if you are relocating to a remote location. Moreover, you might be charged extra costs in case you need storage services. Knowing about these charges beforehand will prevent unwanted surprises when moving.
Do you have references?
You should never hire a moving company without asking for their reference. You should note that you shall be entrusting your items to the company, meaning the company’s reputations do matter. A reputable moving company such as Mayflower Movers shouldn’t have a problem with providing a list of references upon request. Now, when you get this list, ensure that you do the due diligence to confirm its authenticity. Also, make sure that you check the company’s online ratings and reviews.
Can you provide binding estimates?
This will help you avoid unwanted surprises. Most moving companies provide binding estimates, as well as non-binding estimates. That means, the projected price of your move can change, depending on certain factors. Such conditions are both beneficial and inconveniencing. In case the move needs extra hours or it’s heavier than initially estimated, the mover can ask for more money than the original estimated figure. Also, there’s a possibility that you could pay less if the factors favor your move.
With a binding estimate, you are protected from paying additional costs that exceed the estimated cost of your move. However, ask the movers to include any possible costs and add-ons that might occur during the move.
