If you’re moving, you may have little time to spare. Hiring professional movers can save you the hassle of lifting heavy furniture and navigating narrow staircases yourself.
However, finding the right company can take time and effort. To avoid paying extra fees and working with untrustworthy movers, follow these tips for hiring local movers.
Ask for References
When hiring local movers, it’s essential to do your homework. It would be best to ask friends and family for recommendations and research companies online. A price estimate upfront is necessary, as moving costs can vary based on multiple factors. It would be best to ask about additional fees, like bubble wrap or packing services.
Working with a certified and insured moving company, like Make A Move Moving, will provide you peace of mind since you know that they are prepared for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during your move. It’s a wise decision to prioritize these factors when making your selection. You should also ensure that the company you hire has a physical address and a website. If they do, finding their contact and insurance information should be easy.
If a moving company does not have a website, it should be a red flag. It means they may be hiding something or not a legitimate business. If you are unsure, you can always call the Better Business Bureau to check whether or not a company is in good standing.
If you are relocating to NYC, you should choose a reliable NYC local moving company. It will save you money on transport costs, as they will be familiar with the city’s streets. They will also charge competitive rates compared to national companies.
Check Their Credentials
Before hiring a moving company, you must ensure they are a reputable and reliable business. You can do this by checking their credentials and asking questions. It would be best to ask for previous clients’ references, licenses, and insurance. In addition, you should also find out whether they are a member of any professional associations.
Local movers are generally more dependable than national companies. They know the streets of your city and are more familiar with the traffic patterns. It can save you time and money, as they won’t have to travel far to reach your home. Furthermore, local movers are more likely to offer competitive rates than national companies.
When searching for a moving company, you must look for a reputable one with good reviews and friendly customer service. You should also ensure they are licensed and insured, which is necessary for any moving company.
Once you’ve made a list of potential movers, it’s time to check their credentials. You should request their full legal name and ‘doing business as’ (DBA) terms, their years in business, and their DOT and MC license numbers. You should also check whether they have any FMCSA resources to see if they’re federally licensed for interstate moves.
Get Quotes
Obtaining quotes from a few moving companies is highly recommended when hiring any service industry company. By comparing the services and prices of different movers, you can make an informed decision and avoid being overcharged.
When requesting a moving quote, you must provide the moving company with an accurate description of your items and their estimated weight. It will help them determine how many movers and how much time your move will require. If you plan to move locally, it’s good to know that most moving companies charge hourly rates and provide extra services like furniture disassembly, reassembly, and packing materials. It makes it easier to customize your moving experience according to your needs and budget. Long-distance moves are charged by weight and include a fuel surcharge and storage-in-transit options.
Ask for references from friends, family members, and other business associates who have used a moving company. Also, check out online reviews. A high number of positive comments is a good sign, and it will give you confidence that the movers you’re considering have a solid reputation in your community.
Finally, request an in-home estimate from the movers you’re interested in hiring. An in-person visit will ensure that your moving quote is as accurate as possible and will consider all the factors, including special services, packaging materials, and additional costs. It will also allow the movers to see your items and assess potential problems, such as narrow stairs or tight corners, that may affect the loading and unloading.
Ask Questions
You want to be sure that the movers you choose are well-qualified. After all, they’ll be inside your home, around your belongings and family members. That is why asking many questions during your initial phone call or in-home estimate is essential. You can also read reviews or check a company’s website for information, services, and reputation.
First, you should ask whether they are licensed and insured. If they are not, you should immediately move on to a different company. It’s also important to know if they have workers’ compensation insurance in case one of their laborers gets hurt during the move.
It’s also a good idea to find out what equipment they use. For example, they should have appropriately sized trucks or vans for your move. They might have an additional fee for handling specialty items, disassembling or reassembling furniture, and other related costs.
Hiring professional local movers can make your life much easier during a move. However, it is crucial to ask plenty of questions and take your time to decide. It will ensure a stress-free move and protect you from unscrupulous companies. Ultimately, the extra time and effort you put into vetting local moving companies will be worth it.