Moving Company: How to Choose the Right One
When developing a relocation plan, choosing the right moving company should be a priority. Industry experts said that before you try to contact a mover, you have to decide first the belongings you want to ship out, what will remain to be given away or sold.
Also, consider whether you would do the packing yourself or leave the task to movers. In addition, think of other services that you may require from your mover.
The next thing to do is call or email potential movers and ask for cost estimate. Try to involve yourself on the estimating process to make it easy and faster for everyone. Make it a point to meet with a relocation consultant who will survey your house and prepare the written cost estimate.
Ask each prospective moving company about the validity period of its cost estimate and whether the estimate is non-binding or binding. Never accept cost estimates over the telephone and neither consider hiring a mover that will offer a service over the telephone.
To save time, inform your mover of any unusual situations or problem in order to get an accurate estimate. It is important that the mover is aware of any potential problems that it will likely encounter at the area where the delivery would be made, such as road access, delivery time restrictions, parking or street accessibility.
Sometimes, these potential problems may increase the cost estimate but at least you would know the real amount before the delivery. This would give you a chance to negotiate the price and would be a great help for you when choosing a mover.
If your new house is located on a hard to access road, make sure that you reserve or allot a parking space for the moving vehicle. Some moving companies would charge extra if their crew would be made to carry your belongings long distances from the moving vehicle to your door.
Meanwhile, make sure that you know the moving rules in the area where you plan to move. Some neighborhoods have weight restrictions on trucks that enter their premises. If this is the case, the mover may offload your belongings in smaller vehicles which could mean additional cost.
Lastly, make sure that you have checked your prospective moving company’s license to operate. And while you are at it, check also its reliability by contacting the Better Business Bureau in your area.