How to Choose a Moving Company
Sales personnel
A universal advice: never listen to sales personnel who tell stories. A high-quality moving company with a good reputation doesn't need to knock the competition, or to criticize other moving companies in an attempt to make itself look better.
Be wary of high-pressure tactics from telemarketers. This could be a ploy simply to get a sales person into your home to give you an estimate. Be careful, do research and decide who to invite into your home, based on references. Always remember that the price of the moving estimate should never be the deciding factor. The reputation of the moving company goes a long way.
In addition, you should be able to meet or talk to the owner of the company. If you can talk to the owner of the business, even if only by phone, you will be able to develop a feeling of confidence that he is experienced and capable enough to assure a professional move.
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Important documents
If you are moving to a different state you need to receive important documentation from your mover.
The documents you need to receive from your mover are:
1. An "Order for Service" signed by your mover.
The Order for Service protects you by spelling out the agreement between you and your mover regarding the dates the shipment will be loaded and delivered, the estimated cost, and (if you are moving to a different state) the fact that the mover can only collect 110% of the estimate at the time of delivery.
2. A written estimate with an itemized breakdown of all charges that makes up the estimate for your moving cost.
Prior to the move date, insist on an in-home visual inspection of the goods you are moving. Accurate estimates can seldom be provided over the telephone. Remember: estimates given over the phone in most cases will be lower then the actual cost of your move.
3. A "Table of Measurements".
The estimator must create a table of all items that need to be moved. This helps calculating the size and weight of your move.
If the mover is hesitant to provide you with any of these items you should consider not using this moving company.
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Questions you should ask the movers
This summary can be very helpful in your search for the right moving company for your move. When talking to a representative consider asking the following questions:
Estimate:
- Ask the mover if he will be willing to come to your home and perform visual estimate.
- Is the estimate you received binding or a non binding?
- How long his or her estimate is valid?
- Are there additional surcharges for things like parking problems, road access, street accessibility, delivery time restrictions or if there are any stairs or elevators involved?
- What is the estimated delivery time and will the driver give you prior notice?
- What would be the packing policy of the company if you decide to pack yourself?
- What are the charges for additional weight?
Insurance:
- What is the level of insurance coverage for your move?
- Does the company offer additional insurance coverage besides the basic liability?
- What is the process of filing a claim?
Payment:
- How do I pay for the move? Cash, credit card, money order, or personal check?
- Is there a deposit that you are required to pay? If yes, can it be refunded in case you choose to cancel the move?
- When do I pay? There can be different payment arrangements, make sure you understand the details.
Company record:
- How long the company is in business?
- Is it licensed to do moves in your state?
- Is it a member of BBB, AMSA, or other organizations?
- Does it have any complaints in the BBB? If yes, how were they handled?
- How many trucks does it have?
- For long distance moves – does the company have its own interstate trucks, or it uses subcontractors?
- Will the company perform the move, or it’s just a broker?
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