If you’re moving across town or to a new state, it’s important to find a moving company that can ensure a safe and hassle-free move. An unreliable mover can lead to unexpected costs, broken or missing items, and even poor customer service.
The best way to find a great moving company is to do your research and talk to people you know, like friends and real estate professionals. Then, look for a few different companies that fit your needs and budget.
You’ll also want to make sure the company is licensed, insured, and offers a wide range of services. You’ll need to be aware of whether they offer full-service or partial-service moving, specialty packing, and storage. You’ll also need to check whether they have a cancellation policy.
A good company should have a strong web presence so that you can easily search for them and see their reviews. Be wary of companies that don’t have a website or have poor online reviews. You can always reach out to the Better Business Bureau or other review sites if you suspect anything is amiss.
Another thing to watch out for is any large deposit requirements. If a company asks for a deposit that’s more than 20 percent of the total price, be suspicious. That’s usually a sign of an unreliable moving company, Michael says.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, ask movers https://www.google.com/maps/place/Miracle+Movers+Raleigh/@35.8167574,-78.6897892,13z/data=!4m10!1m2!2m1!1smoving+companies!3m6!1s0x89ac586830c5b65b:0xaa24a20c0ce1c87a!8m2!3d35.8167574!4d-78.6197514!15sChBtb3ZpbmcgY29tcGFuaWVzWhIiEG1vdmluZyBjb21wYW5pZXOSAQ5tb3ZpbmdfY29tcGFueZoBI0NoWkRTVWhOTUc5blMwVkpRMEZuU1VSamQxQlFjRU5CRUFF4AEA!16s%2Fg%2F11bzx4kkdm?hl=en for estimates. Getting estimates from several companies will help you compare rates and find the most affordable option for your moving needs.
In most states, local movers must be licensed and registered. Ask about this during the quote process, or contact your local Department of Transportation to find out what the licensing requirements are.
Licensed movers are required to provide you with one or more liability protections when your goods are transported, including Released Value Protection and Full Value Protection. The latter protects your belongings against loss or damage and holds the company liable for 60 cents per pound of items that are lost, destroyed or damaged while being moved.
You also have the right to observe a weighing of your goods before they are loaded onto the truck. This can be done by the movers, or you can choose to do it yourself.
Be sure to read the bill of lading, which sets out all your rights and responsibilities when you hire a moving company. It should include the total price of your move, the cost of any extras you might request, and a description of the services the company will perform.
If you’re moving long-distance, be sure to ask about line-haul fees, which are calculated based on the distance and weight of your shipment. These fees can add up quickly, so ask about them before you sign a contract.
Some movers offer auto transport, which can be useful for those who need to ship a car or motorcycle. These companies work with certified carriers who specialize in safely transporting vehicles.