If you do not want to handle your upcoming move on your own, you can hire a company for help. There are likely many companies in your area to choose from, but you should take your time and aim to select the right one for your needs. You can narrow down the options before picking a mover to hire by asking the available companies the following five questions:
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
You should never hire a moving company that is not licensed and insured. Therefore, you should ask this question right away. If you find out they are not licensed and insured, look for another company. A company's license and insurance protect you by ensuring that the company's personnel are properly trained and equipped and that they can cover any damages incurred to your property during the moving process.
2. How Much Will You Be Charged?
Never hire a moving company unless you know how much they are charging for the services, and make sure that you get their quote in writing. When you get it in writing, you can have evidence to go back to if they try to charge you a different rate later on.
3. What Services Does The Quote Include?
When you get the quote, you must also find out what services the quoted price covers. For example, does it include loading your things from your home into their truck? Does it also include unloading your things? Will the movers offer any other assistance for the move? You can learn a lot by asking what services the price includes, and you should make sure the written contract states everything they said the price included.
4. Are There Exclusions to Consider?
You can also ask about any exclusions their company refuses to move. Will they move everything you own or will they exclude certain items? Most moving companies can provide lists of things they will not move. If you own any of those things, you'll need to arrange for alternative transport.
5. How Many People Will Handle the Move and How Much Time Will It Take?
You should also consider the timing of your move and the manpower they will use on moving day. Will they move your stuff in one day, or will it take multiple days? How many people will show up, and how many trucks will they use? Asking these types of questions can help you learn what to expect for moving day and will allow you to finish preparations such as arranging for parking for the moving trucks.
Don't forget that your situation is unique and that there may be other considerations you'll need to make when choosing a moving company. Go through your home and rehearse what will need to happen to move your possessions. Identify each one that could pose a challenge so you can ask potential movers about their accommodations for that type of item. You can learn more about moving services by contacting a local moving company of your choice.