During your move, you’ll have to make several decisions in a very short period. From picking the best moving company to determining the ideal moving date, the number of tasks can quickly become overwhelming. Here are five things to ask to ensure you choose the best moving services.
1. Are You Licensed to Operate?
To avoid moving scams and unscrupulous movers, ensure that the moving firm is licensed. The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) grants licenses to all professional interstate moving companies. USDOT allows you to verify their license number and complaint record online. Local moving businesses that solely relocate individuals within the same state, on the other hand, are governed by the state and not the U.S. Department of Transportation. Therefore, local movers must be licensed by the state.
2. Do You Have Expertise With My Sort of Move?
Ask the moving firm if they have sufficient experience with your particular type of move. For example, if you are moving to a high-rise apartment complex, a townhome with numerous stories (and stairs), or a large metropolis, you should ask the moving company if they have experience with your type of move. Moving services must be ready for anything, including parking constraints, high stairs, the absence of elevators, and narrow entrances.
3. What Liability Coverage Choices Does Your Business Offer?
Before you can begin loading your belongings, you should ensure that they are insured in the event of an accident during the move. Whether you are moving across the block or across the country, your professional moving company should provide you with liability coverage alternatives. Interstate movers with a valid license are required to offer two liability options: Full Value Protection and Released Value.
4. Do You Have References?
Don’t settle on a moving company without asking for recommendations first. A representative of the moving business should be able to supply you with all the necessary information when asked. You must do your homework when looking for a moving company. Consider asking for recommendations from friends and neighbors. Even in modern times, word-of-mouth is still a reliable way of finding a reliable moving company.
5. Can You Provide a Not-to-Exceed Estimate?
Don’t leave room for surprises when it comes to the bill. Several moving firms provide estimates that are non-binding, meaning that the anticipated cost of your move may change based on actual costs. This could be a positive or terrible development. If your relocation involves more labor hours or is heavier than expected, you may have to pay more. If you’re lucky enough, you may end up paying less.
According to Move Buddha, around 60% of annual U.S. moves occur between May and August. If you’re part of this number, knowing the right questions to ask before you begin interviewing moving firms is a key aspect of locating the best moving services. Before hiring a mover, write down your questions and be prepared to conduct a little research on them.
