Finding The Best Moving Company for Your Needs
Congratulations! You are moving into a new home. It takes a lot of work and organization to get packed and on the road, but it’s all part of the process. If you are using professional movers, there are some things to consider. The following tips will help you find a reputable moving company that will do the job right and at the right price.
Your friends, business associates and family are a great place to start. Ask them to recommend (or warn you away from) a company they have previously used. After you’ve gathered a few names, you’ll want to research the companies further. Take a look at any consumer review websites, such as Yelp.com. The Better Business Bureau is also a great resource. The reviews you read can help you decide which companies are best.
You should consider some questions prior to calling any of these companies for a quote. Firstly, will you have the moving company move everything? Sometimes people hire these companies just to move large, heavy items like pianos. Also, do you intend to do all your own packing, or were you planning on having the movers handle all or part of that job for you?
Your valuables are generally at least partially protected by the moving company’s liability insurance (typically .60 per pound). This is usually regardless of whether you do the packing, the moving company does the packing or a combination of the two. If you want everything fully insured against damage or breakage, be sure to talk with the movers about any additional costs that will apply. Also, ask about restrictions or limitations on the coverage. Insurance upgrades are often offered by the moving company, but may apply only to items the movers pack for you, or you may have the option to specify which items you want covered with the extra insurance. Some people opt for third-party insurance coverage through their own agent.
To get the best comparison, it is recommended that you request estimates from three different companies. You’ll want to make sure, however, that each company goes about the same method to produce their quote. For instance, if two estimates are from movers who come to inspect your belongings, while the third quotes you over the phone, these are NOT like estimates and should not be compared to each other. If one estimate is considerably lower than the other two, you’ll want to look into the bonds and insurance protection these movers are carrying. The company, not you, should take responsibility for potential injury of the movers. Make certain that all estimates include driving time, gas, mileage, lunch breaks, container size, extra costs for wrapping furniture, renting furniture pads, boxes for your wardrobe, etc. You don’t want to be surprised with extra fees when you get the bill.
Ask if scheduling your move on a weekday is any less expensive than scheduling on the weekend. Sometimes it is. Be wary of companies that have no physical address, or that require cash for the move. Almost all businesses should accept credit cards in this day and age.
Remember that if you are doing a local move to hire a local company. Cross country moves have additional regulations and charges that apply and cross country or international moves should be handled by experts in that area.
The moving business is highly competitive. As such, the majority of movers will try to provide good service at a reasonable price. However, it pays to research things further and ensure that the company you are trusting with your belongings will treat them with the care they require.
Moving in the Chicago area? Call on Checkmate Movers. They offer a full range of moving services with a low minimum charge, simple hourly rates and no hidden fees. Their experienced, capable movers work safely and efficiently. This article powered by SEO 2.0 Services
