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Moving is stressful enough by itself. The last thing you need is a hassle with your moving company. That’s why it’s important to do a little research and choose the moving company from among the many moving companies that will best suit your needs. Although many reputable moving companies advertise online, the scammers are pretty firmly established on the Internet as well. Since it can be hard to sort out the wheat from the chaff, talk to people you know who have recently moved. Which moving company did they use? Were they satisfied with the services? Another reliable referral source of information is your real estate agent.
Once you have the names of two or three moving companies invite each company on your short-list over to do an in-home estimate. Do not accept over-the-phone estimates, which are notoriously unreliable. There are three kinds of estimates: binding, non-binding (hourly), and “not to exceed.” Make sure your estimate is either binding or “not to exceed.” Get the estimates in writing. Don’t sign any blank forms—you never know what terms will be filled in after you’ve signed your name. Before making your final selection, find out exactly what services the moving company will provide for the price quoted. Will the movers pack your belongings, or is that up to you? Is the company willing to move valuables (e.g., paintings, heirloom furniture, etc.)? Ask about the company’s insurance. If an item is damaged or lost in transit, will they pay for it or is that your expense? Finally, check out the company’s professional associations. At bare minimum, the company you select should be licensed with your state’s Department of Transportation (DOT). Ideally, it will also be a member of an association like the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) or, for international movers, the International Federation of International Movers (FIDI). Not all moving companies are created equal. Some genuinely want to help you have the best moving experience possible. Others simply want to take your money and run. Do your research, and when moving day arrives, you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing you can count on your moving company. |
