You have exciting times ahead when you decide to relocate!

 

With lots of things involved, from setting up your life in your new place to packing your belongings in your current location, moving can get complex.

 

One of the biggest things you will need to figure out when relocating is how to find a good moving company. Whether moving across your city or heading to a new state, you don’t want to end up with movers who handle your prized possessions carelessly.

 

Luckily, there are two ways out: you could opt for a DIY move or focus on finding a trustworthy moving company. Your decision will depend on the kind of move you want, the services you require, and your ability to handle the expense. 

 

Should your decision fall among the latter, here are some tips to help you find the right moving company for your relocation.

 

Deciding If You Need a Moving Company

Firstly, you might consider handling the move yourself to save costs and handle your belongings how you want. But if you’re keeping it real, moving can be stressful!

 

There’s so much on your plate between organizing, packing, and figuring out logistics. This is where outsourcing all that work to the professionals becomes expedient. 

 

A reputable moving company can save you time, energy, and a few extra gray hairs. Plus, some tend to offer services that go beyond transporting your belongings to your new destination — these may attract additional costs, though.

 

But here’s the kicker: not all moving companies are equal. Some will treat your stuff like it’s their own. Others… not so much. 

 

That’s why it’s pretty much essential to do your homework and find the right moving company.

 

Tips for Finding a Good Moving Company

Now that you have decided to use the professional services of movers, finding that award-winning moving company that’s just right for your move should be next on your agenda. 

 

Here are some key tips:

 

1. Start with recommendations

A good place to start is to ask your friends, family, or colleagues if they have had any great moving experiences. 

 

Getting personal recommendations is pure gold because they come from people you trust and who have most likely used the recommended services before.

 

Alternatively, you can contact moving brokers who act as intermediaries for you on how to find a reputable moving company. 

 

Moving brokers offer you recommendations based on how much load you have to move, your budget, and the distance.

 

1. Check online reviews

Once you have got a few names (and you should have a few moving companies shortlisted from recommendations), head to Google, Yelp, or any other online platform and read those reviews. 

 

You are looking for companies with consistently good feedback. The company’s website is not a great place to source authentic reviews. 

 

As much as you look for good reviews, remember the bad ones. They give you insight into what challenges may arise when using that company’s services and how they respond to them.

 

1. Get multiple quotes

After you have narrowed down a few moving companies, contact them and try to get a quote. The quote you receive can be a good litmus test for how to find a good moving company. 

 

A low-ball offer could be a red flag. It often aims to trap you with its supposed low offerings and slap you with jacked-up hidden fees later on in the move process.

 

1. Verify credentials

Your screening tests on how to hire a moving company are incomplete until you check if the moving company has a valid license and insurance. 

 

All interstate moves need to be made by a company with valid qualifications. Although moves within the state may not have stringent licensing requirements, you should ensure the movers have registered with the state’s movers association.

 

For long-distance movers, the company should have a USDOT number. The Department of Transportation issues this number.

 

Plus, you should always check for the company’s registration on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website.

 

1. Check for experience and expertise

The experience and expertise of a moving company can also tip over the scale on how to find a good moving company. 

 

A company with years of experience is more likely to have the skills and know-how to handle any hiccups during the move.

 

Inquire about their equipment — the type of trucks they use and whether they have the proper equipment for loading/unloading your items. 

 

Reliable companies will have well-maintained trucks and tools to move your items safely.

 

1. Review the fine print of the contract

Another tip for finding a good moving company is to thoroughly review the fine print before signing any contract. 

 

You want to be clear about every detail, from the pricing structure to the services included. Pay close attention to any extra fees, like charges for stairs, long carries, or packing materials. 

 

Ensure all the details you discussed with the moving company are outlined in the contract, including the pick-up and delivery dates. If there’s anything you don’t understand, never hesitate to seek clarification by asking questions. 

 

Note:

A reputable moving company will have no problem explaining every term to you. Never sign a blank or incomplete contract, as this could lead to surprise charges later on.

 

Extras to consider

Before you finalize your choice, ask these key questions to ensure you are choosing the best movers for your needs:

 

• Do they offer insurance? If you have high-value items, you’ll want to ensure they offer coverage beyond the basic “released value” protection.

 

• Can they provide a written contract? It’s important to have an agreement on paper to prevent any future issues that may come up.

 

• What’s their policy on delays? Long-distance moves can sometimes hit roadblocks. Ask how they handle delays and what compensation, if any, you’ll receive.

 

You should be wary of companies that:

 

• Don’t have a local address or proper licensing information.

 

• Demand a large deposit before the move.

 

Important Note: The quote estimate you receive from a moving company may not be the final price you pay for the move. Depending on the circumstance, you may be charged above or below this quote.

 

Therefore, it is important to ask yourself, ‘How much does it cost to hire a moving company?’ If you have done your homework well, you will realize the cost depends on a few factors, such as:

 

1. Distance — 

Are you moving within the same city or across the country? 

 

Local moves are usually charged by the hour, while long-distance moves typically depend on the total weight of your belongings and the miles traveled. The costs could range from $300 for local moves to around $5,000 for long-distance moves.

 

1. Special Services — 

Do you need help packing? Do you have fragile items like antiques or artwork? Special services will increase the cost.

 

1. Time of Year — 

Moving during peak seasons, like summer, tends to be pricier compared to the off-peak winter months.

 

Conclusion — Find Your Movers 

Recruiting the right moving company is not just about getting the best price, although that’s a part of it.

 

Knowing how to find a good moving company involves some underground work; checking reviews, verifying credentials and registrations, comparing quotes/prices, reviewing contracts, and evaluating expertise.

 

Remember: with a reputable moving company, you can relax knowing your belongings are in good hands while you focus on settling into your new home.