Moving can be challenging especially if it is a first time experience. Hiring a moving company is the best way to remove the hassle from the moving process. Although, this will be a more costly venture, it is best to pass on the responsibility to a professional moving company. Hiring professional Manhattan movers will help make things easier for you. Here are some tips on what to look for when you decide on using a moving company.
Reliable recommendations
An online search is not always the best way to search for a moving company, but family and friends are. Reach out to persons who have used moving companies before and ask about their experiences. Ask them to make suggestions as to which company they would suggest you hire. This will help you get valuable information that you probably would not get by searching online.
Reviews
Now that you have the names of some companies, you can now go online and learn more about them from the reviews posted on their websites. Most times, customers leave reviews if their experiences were very good or very bad. These will definitely help you to decide if you want to hire a particular moving company.
A positive track record
Experience speaks wisdom, therefore a company that has been in operation for a couple of years is often a better choice. Your online search should help you to get a good idea of their operations such as their reliability, cost effective rates and ability to preserve the condition of the customer’s possessions. It is better to hire a moving company that has been operating for a number of years, one with a good record of accomplishment, rather than a new one that is not highly recommended.
License and insurance
Ensure that the moving company you choose is licensed and insured. The law protecting your property guarantees only legitimate companies that are licensed and insured. Interstate movers must register with the U.S. Transportation Department, which provide them with a unique USDOT. If you need confirmation about the validity of a company, you can check the database of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. It is best too to research the intrastate licensing regulations for your state to help you know if the moving company you are choosing is a certified and qualified mover.
Transparent charges
Movers charge a base rate, which depends on two things: the number of movers and the number of hours you will need their services. Ensure you ask about the other additional charges that are not included in this base rate. Additional charges include higher rates for moving large, weighty objects, extra packing materials and related add-ons. Getting a set estimate during a phone conversation is unlikely, so ensure you ask about any extra fee that will be required of you. If the moving company cannot provide you this information, find someone else. Read more about rate charges: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moving_company
A good fit for your individual needs
No two moves are similar. For this reason, you have to ensure that the moving company you choose has accommodation for all your things. What are your specific needs? Ask question to make certain you are choosing the right fit. Here are some questions you will need to ask:
- Does the company have the trucks of the right size to hold your furniture and boxes while protecting them adequately during the move?
- Will the company provide any additional necessary packing materials, such as garment boxes, bubble wraps or moving blankets?
- Will the company be available within your time specifications with the guarantee to pick up and deliver within the time and date that is best suitable for you?
Watch out for scam movers
Unfortunately, fraudulent behavior exists everywhere and moving companies are not exempt. Although this may reflect only a small percentage, you still have to be cautious. How can you know if a moving company is genuine or not?
- Stay clear if there is no physical address and if you do not get an estimate write-up after a home inspection.
- Don’t hire any company that request a deposit in excess of 20 percent.
- Moving companies that do not provide customers with the FMCSA booklet that informs you of your rights and responsibilities or require that you sign incomplete or black documents are definitely a “No-No.” Read here for more information on moving.
The moving industry is very competitive and this gives you unlimited options from which to choose. Research, ask, and when in doubt move on. Red flags are indicators that a company is not legitimate. What you need is a company that has a proven track- record of reliability, safety and high quality service. It is your personal belongings and your peace of mind that is at stake if you choose a rogue moving company. A thorough research will equip you to make the best choice.
