Moving can be a nice experience, but it can be a hectic one. To experience a smooth move, a good planning is essential. Being in a hurry can result in a bad overall moving experience. And the most important relocation task that one has to tackle is to find of a reputable moving company. Working with an experienced moving company can guarantee a stress free relocation. Sometimes an unexpected issue might occur, but if you work with a reputable mover, the problem can be resolved timely and efficiently. So here are some moving tips that will help you move safely.
How to find reputable movers
- Start your search for movers at least a month before the moving day. Reach at least five moving service providers. When looking for a moving company, make sure that it’s insured. Confirm that movers are licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and comply with the Agency’s rules and regulations. Check moving company’s record at the FMCSA. Your mover should have a Workers’ Compensation Board certificate. If not, you may end up paying for the employees’ injuries during the relocation.
- Next, after you confirm that the potential movers are licensed and maintain the needed insurance, you can ask for a quote.
- When comparing prices, be extremely cautious if there is a significantly lower quote. It’s a common practice for unscrupulous movers to give low-ball estimates to customers, but once rogues book them, consumers are required to pay egregious amount of money in return of their household items. Another sleek pitch rogues usually use is to give estimates only by phone or by e-mail. Every professional mover will send a representative to fully inspect your home.
- A walkthrough is needed in order to receive an accurate estimate, otherwise the estimate you get would be nothing more than a mere assumption. When a company representative comes to your place, tell your mover if you consider moving bulky or fragile items as they need special handling. Items sensitive to environment need climate-controlled vans. Plants and pets need special arrangement and you are not allowed to transport perishables and hazardous materials, so get rid of all cleaning products, nail removers or food.
- Along with the price, take into consideration years of experience, affiliation with recognized associations and BBB rating. Furthermore, look up movers’ reviews. Reading about previous customers’ experience will help you get to know the company ethics. The more information you gather, the better choice you can make.
- If a company asks you a large deposit long in advance, know that this is just one of those “switch and bait” strategies rogues employ.
- Ask your mover whether the company consider working with a sub-contractor during your relocation. Perhaps, you might need storage for a while. You should discuss that matter in advance so you can be aware of the sub-contractor.
Packing tips for a smooth move
One of the most tedious tasks that one must tackle during the move is the packing. To save some money on your upcoming relocation, consider packing some of the items on your own. Instead of shopping for packing supplies, look for free boxes at the near supermarkets and liquor shops. You can use newspaper, towels or kids’ toys as cushion. Consult with your mover for all breakables and expensive belongings. Mind that if your household goods are not packed and loaded properly, severe damages might occur. Moreover, by packing your furniture on your own, you might be limiting your mover’s liability.
Tips for a smooth move
So discuss your insurance options in advance – terms and conditions, deductibles. You might even procure third-party insurance. You should comply with the policy if you want your insurance to be valid. If you don’t buy Replacement Value
Protection, the moving company is usually liable only up to 60 cents per pound per article that may be damaged or lost. Be sure you have sufficient protection either through your own insurance policy or through the moving company’s Replacement Value Protection.
Any good moving company will offer arbitration program. Acquaint yourself with claim process – what is the deadline to file a claim. Before booking your movers, make sure they will be willing to cooperate in case of an issue.
Make an inventor y of your items and be present on the moving day. Read the bill of lading carefully and ask the company representative to explain you clauses that you are not sure you can fully understand.
On delivery day, inspect all of your items to confirm there aren’t any broken or damaged items.
