Tips For Hiring MoversTips For Hiring a Moving Company
Are you looking to make a great choice in hiring a moving company? Even when you are hiring a mover, and the move goes smoothly, it is normal to be anxious! Moving ranks about third in major life event stressors after death and divorce.
Even when we are moving to a dream home, the actual move is often torturous, and a scammer, moving company, will make the process disastrous. It is important that you check out the moving companies before choosing to suit your needs. A great moving company can make all the difference in the world.
Whether you are moving from an apartment, townhouse, shipping container house, or just a traditional four-bedroom colonial, you'll want someone trustworthy.
There are some excellent moving companies out there. Maximum Real Estate Exposure has a fantastic resource that features some of the top long-distance movers.
Picking a good moving company often revolves around having great references from others. Those who have direct experience with the movers are always worth speaking to.
Let's take a look at some sound tips for picking a moving company.
What The Moving Company Will Do
A good moving company will come to your house to assess your move and take an inventory of your belongings. Once they determine the move's size, they will give you an estimate of what the move will cost.
This should involve a walkthrough of your house, assessing what you plan to move. The moving company will also look over your home's access points. If you have many steps, or if you live in a narrow lane that they can't get a truck in, it will also raise the price of the move.
When Do You Pay a Moving Company?
You should only be required to pay for your move on delivery. Pay with a credit card to avoid disputes. Never pay in advance, as there is a possibility that you may never see your stuff again. A common moving scam is movers who ask for payment upfront. With a bad moving company, there is a chance you will never see your things again.
Avoid Companies That Have Recently Changed Their Name
If the company trades under different names, it may mean that they are trying to avoid scrutiny from the Better Business Bureau or maybe even the IRS. These are the kind of moving companies you'll want to avoid.
Search online and make sure that there have been no complaints about the moving company you're considering using.
Check References When Hiring a Mover
Get a list of reliable movers. Often your Realtor can provide you with a list of great companies. Otherwise, the American Moving and Storage Association will have some knowledge of who is worthy of hiring.
When you contact the movers, ask for references. Ask for a list of two or three customers that they have recently moved to confirm that they did a great job.
Avoid Packing Costs
When you can, do the packing yourself. Ask the mover to deliver moving boxes, tape, and paper to your house, 4-6 weeks out from the move. You can start packing by doing a room a week.
If you get the mover to pack for you, they will charge a much greater price and may not be very good at packing. When doing the packing, it is advisable to label every box in detail. That way, you will avoid hunting for things on arrival at your new place.
The costs involved with packing are why many folks will decide to make a DIY move and rent a U-Haul truck instead. Of course, making your own move can save a ton of money.
Avoid Extra Fees When Hiring a Moving Company
If you are moving from an apartment to a house, the movers will probably charge you more for negotiating stairs and elevators. When the mover comes, ask them if there will be extra fees.
For example, I was charged 0 for the use of a tarpaulin because it was raining on moving day. I complained that this was excessive and was reimbursed 0! It was one big rip-off.
Never Sign a Blank Contract When Hiring Movers
You would like to think that no one signs a blank contract, but there is always the one who does! Get everything in writing before you sign. Take small valuables and your laptop in the car with you. Don't let them out of your sight. There are three kinds of moving contracts.
- A nonbinding estimate, the company can't charge you more than 10% above the original estimate.
- A nonbinding to exceed estimate means the estimate is the maximum you will be required to pay.
- A Binding Estimate means any extra services like unpacking must be paid within 30 days of delivery.
Report Problems Right Away
After the move, you may notice that a major item of furniture is broken. You have nine months to report problems to the company. You will also need to file an insurance claim. The mover will either deny the claim or make an offer to pay.
Understand Insurance When Hiring a Mover
The mover is required to assume liability for the value of the goods they transport. You will need to be aware of the amount of protection provided by each level of insurance. Do you have the following:
- Full replacement protection. This enables the mover to repair or replace the article.
- Restore it to the original condition
- Pay for the cost of replacement.
At law, the mover can limit his liability for loss and damage occurring during the move. When you hire the mover, it is important to study this provision and make a declaration accordingly declaring everything over the value of 0 per pound.
Another option is that under the cost option, the mover assumes the liability of no more than 60 cents per pound per article. There is no extra charge for this minimal protection, but you must sign a statement agreeing to it.
Final Thoughts on Picking a Moving Company
Millions of people move house every year, and it is quite surprising that most moves do go smoothly, but we do need to take steps to avoid shoddy practices.
Doing your research and retaining the best possible mover will go a long way to ensuring that your furniture and boxes arrive safely at your new home.
Also, before the move is a good time to cull what you no longer need and use. Get rid of old furniture that is looking distressed. Once you start to recycle things, it is a good feeling and will save money on the move. Any broken toys should be put in the rubbish. You can buy more later.
Once you find a good mover who makes a quality move, you will want to use them again for the next move and recommend them to your friends.
As it gives you a much better feeling to know your belongings are in safe and reliable hands. Hopefully, you have enjoyed these tips for picking movers.
|
