Whether you’re moving across town or the country, choosing the right moving company is essential for the smooth transition to your new home. Having the best moving company means you can trust that they’ll handle everything safely, smoothly and at an affordable price. It also means you can feel confident that your belongings are safe, protected and insured.
The first step in finding a great mover is to do your research. Read reviews and compare prices online. Some companies provide instant quotes over the phone or on their websites, while others require an inventory of your belongings to provide a final cost. Look for movers who offer flexible pricing options to help accommodate your budget. For example, some movers will charge by the hour or container rental period and others will offer flat rates.
A good mover will always be honest and upfront with you. If they seem to be hiding information or giving you the run-around, it’s probably best to move on. Once you’ve narrowed your choices, request quotes from a few reputable movers. Make sure you’re comparing apples to apples by ensuring you know the exact services included in each quote, such as disassembly of furniture, packing materials, labor charges and mileage fees. It’s also important to understand whether a quote is a firm, binding estimate or if it could change once the work begins.
Some movers are brokers while others are carriers. Find out the difference and check if they have a USDOT number for interstate moves or a state-specific license for local moves. Also, check the Federal Motor Carrier records to see their safety rating. Then, search the company name on the BBB website to see their letter grade and complaint history.
While you’re researching, ask for references. A reputable moving company should have no problem providing you with references from past clients. Call the references and ask if they were satisfied with their experience.
It’s also a good idea to ask for a walk-through of your apartment or home with the mover. This is an opportunity for you to tell them about your unique needs and get their professional opinion. For example, if you have an extremely heavy item that you’re not sure how to transport, they can give you advice or recommend a specialist. During the walk-through, you should also take note of any items that you might need to purchase or rent, such as boxes, a moving truck or additional storage space.