Moving from one house to another can be a huge task, so it is not surprising that many people choose to hire moving companies to help make the process easier. Hiring a moving company can go a long way towards ensuring a smooth move, but only if you choose the right moving company. It is never a good idea to hire the first moving company that you find while doing an online search. If you're moving in the near future, use the following tips to help you hire the best moving company:
Look for a Licensed Company
Prior to hiring a moving company, it is always in your best interest to due your due diligence and ensure that the company is properly licensed. If you are moving from one state to another, make sure that the interstate moving company that you hire has a US DOT number, which is issued by the U.S. Department of Transportation. If you are moving within one state, make sure that a moving company hold the appropriate license required by your state's laws.
Ask About Insurance
When you're entrusting a company to load, transport, and unload all of your personal belongings. you want to make sure that the company carries the appropriate insurance. If you hire a moving company that is not insured or is under-insured, you put yourself at financial risk if anything happens to your belongings. When a moving company is properly insured, you will be reimbursed in the event that any of your belongings are damaged while being loaded/unloaded or during transport.
Get a Comprehensive Price Quote
Don't hire a moving company until you have a comprehensive price quote in writing. Moving companies may advertise one price, but the base price often does not include tax, surcharges, additional fees, or the cost of fuel. When you have everything in writing in advance, you won't have to worry about any unexpected charges or expenses when you pay your bill.
Know What You are Paying For
Moving companies offer different levels of service, so you need to know what you will be paying for. Some moving companies will wrap and protect large items before they are loaded to prevent damages, while others will expect you to have everything packed and ready for pickup. Determine what level of service you need for your move and make sure you understand what you are paying for before moving day arrives.