Did you know that the average person will move 11.4 times? That’s a whole lot of packing and unpacking!
No matter how many times you have relocated in the past, getting ready for your new adventure can be tough to do alone. By hiring a moving company, you can take some of the pressure off and focus on other things.
When it comes to how to choose a moving company, what should you look for? Should the price come first? How much stock should you put in a company’s online reviews?
We’re detailing the answers to these questions and more below, so keep reading to find out how you can hire the perfect movers!
Identify Your Needs
While there are plenty of moving companies to choose from, it doesn’t mean they all offer the same service or quality of service. Before contacting moving companies, consider what type of move you’re preparing for.
An international move? A move down the block? Are you moving a studio apartment or whole house?
Some moving companies specialize in certain types of moves; others offer a variety of services.
Read Reviews
Online reviews are an excellent way to learn more about a company before giving them a call. They’re easy to find and don’t take long to read.
Likewise, take note of the company’s responses to any reviews.
If the review was negative, did the company address the problem? If the review was positive, did they seem to value the customer’s business?
How a company responds online can tell you a lot about their business practices.
Verify Credentials
It is essential to check a professional moving company’s history and credentials before hiring them.
If a relocation includes crossing state lines, the mover must be certified by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and follow its rules and regulations. These rules include the required registration of a USDOT Number.
Always work with a certified moving company. Confirm the credentials of your potential movers here.
Ask Questions
Reading reviews should help you narrow down your list of potential moving partners. Once you’ve found at least three that you trust, it’s time to reach out and learn about their offerings firsthand.
When you call, you’ll need to give a few important details:
- The date of your move
- Where you’re moving from and to
- What services you’ll need
The more specific you can be during your correspondence, the better your moving company can help you.
Also ask about storage options, moving insurance, and any special rates they currently offer.
Collect Quotes
Your initial conversations should help you whittle down your list even further. Now it’s time to get serious.
Moving can come with some hidden costs that sneak up on you if you’re not careful. One way to avoid these hidden fees is by directly asking for a quote.
Again, the more details you can give, the better. The size of your current/new home and how much you’re taking with you will affect the price.
Don’t Choose on Price Alone
You want to save money during your move, but you shouldn’t have to do so at the cost of quality and care.
You get what you pay for, so it isn’t always a good idea to choose the company with the lowest quote.
Instead, find a company that offers reliable service as well as a competitive rate.
How to Choose a Moving Company
Moving is stressful enough without having to worry about how to choose a moving company. Start early to give yourself plenty of time to find the most reputable moving service.
Speaking of reputable service, we’d love to help you move. Reach out today for a free quote.