Moving can be an exciting time, but one major consideration is how exactly you’ll get from point A to point B. Choosing the right moving company can make a big difference in moving your belongings smoothly and securely to your new home, and these tips can help.
DETERMINE WHAT YOU’RE MOVING.
As a first step, take an inventory of everything in your current home that will need to be moved to your new home. Many moving companies provide estimates based on total amount and weight, so it’s important that you complete a thorough assessment. Consider everything from large items like bedroom furniture and kitchen appliances to all of the smaller items like dishes and books that will be packed in boxes. It’s easy to overlook other less-prominent areas of your home, like the storage in the attic, the tools in the garage and the lawn equipment in the shed, so remember to consider each and every room.
As you do, differentiate things you may be selling, donating or leaving behind for the new owners that won’t need included in the estimate. Also take note of specific items that may require specialty movers such as pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, appliances, safes, gym equipment and more. Depending on your needs, you may want to seek out qualified professionals during your research process. Lastly, determine whether you could benefit from additional services such as packing or cleaning. Some movers offer them as convenient add-ons.
DO YOUR RESEARCH.
You’ll want to start this process as early as possible to ensure you have arrangements on moving day. Before jumping online, ask around in your trusted circle of friends, family and co-workers to find out what companies they’d recommend. Speaking with professionals such as your real estate agent or a home improvement contractor about your unique moving needs can also help you find qualified leads. You can also do a quick search for companies in your area to help you get started. Don’t forget to check out specialty movers for your large or unique items, if necessary
Once you’ve drafted a list of moving companies, give them a call to collect some key details to conduct further research:
- Their full legal name, and any “doing business as” (DBA) names
- Their business address
- The number of years in business
- The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration “DOT number” and motor carrier (MC) license numbers
- Any professional accreditations they have, like the American Moving and Storage Association ProMover
- Their insurance information and what level they offer, whether full (replacement) value protection in which they are liable to repair or replace any lost, damaged or destroyed item, or an alternative level of liability
- A list of customers in your area who they’ve worked with recently who can serve as references
With these details, you’ll be prepared to dig a little deeper into their website, customer reviews, the Department of Transportation and the Better Business Bureau based on the information they provided.
REQUEST MULTIPLE ESTIMATES AND COMPARE.
After you’ve determined your needs and narrowed down your options, the next step is to collect at least three estimates from different moving companies. A good company will request a visual estimate at your home; be wary of those who give you an estimate without seeing the full scope of what needs to be moved.
This is the time to share what you assessed in step one: what will need moved, including the large pieces, specialty items and all the various belongings that will be boxed up. Also let the moving companies know about any stairs or elevators their team will have to navigate as these details could affect the total cost.
Moving companies will often provide one of three types of estimates: binding, non-binding and binding not-to-exceed estimate. Here’s a simple breakdown:
BINDING: This estimate provides a fixed cost based on the approximate weight of the items. The moving company can’t charge more if the load ends up weighing more; however you can’t pay less if the load ends up weighing less, either.
NON-BINDING: This estimate is a non-fixed cost based on the approximate weight but could change later based on the actual weight. Moving companies can charge up to 10% more on moving day if items weigh more than anticipated.
BINDING NOT-TO-EXCEED: This estimate is also a non-fixed cost based on the approximate weight, with one key difference. If your items end up costing more than originally quoted, you don’t have to pay more. If they end up weighing less, you’ll only have to pay for moving the actual weight.
KNOW THE SIGNS OF A SCAM.
Unfortunately, there are deceitful and unreliable moving companies who try to take advantage of movers, but knowing the warning signs can help save you time, money and stress. First, beware of companies who request a deposit up front. Otherwise, you run the risk of the movers taking the money and failing to show up on moving day or holding your belongings hostage until you pay them more money. Be sure to pay any balance with a credit card, such as the Synchrony HOME Credit Card, in case you need to dispute any charges later.
Next, review the contract closely before signing. It should include the estimate, an inventory of all the items that will need to be moved, any additional fees for specialty items, cleaning, etc., pickup and delivery dates.
Keep in mind that if something goes missing or is damaged, and it’s not on the inventory list, you won’t be able to file a claim for it. If you do discover something is missing or damaged upon arrival, file a claim immediately.