Get three estimations at least
You should not be satisfied with the first estimate you get for your move. It is best to ask at least three different companies to provide an estimate in person. This is important because no company can really provide a complete estimate without viewing your belongings.
Verify the movers address and get his details
It is recommended that you ask for a business card or check the moving company's website, then look up the address listed online or in the phone book. It is important to verify that the moving company's address is registered under the company's name and that it is listed. Beware of addresses that are listed under a residential name.
Tips to choose a reliable and trustworthy moving company
It's natural to look for quality movers to ensure your move goes smoothly. The tips we've just shared should make it easier for you to find reliable movers.
Verify the mover’s insurance and registration
It is important to make sure that the moving company you are considering hiring is registered and insured. For interstate moves, the FMCSA requires a USDOT number. State moving regulations vary, so you can contact your state, county or local consumer protection agency, or your state attorney general to learn more. To research a company's history, you may also use the FMCSA's search tool database or get in touch with the Better Business Bureau and consumer protection organizations. Associations such as the American Moving and Storage Association can also provide a list of reliable movers.
It's also a good idea to ask for recommendations from people you know and to check the moving company's references by asking them for a list of three customers in your area who have moved in the last three months. Don't hesitate to call these customers to get direct testimonials.
It is also a good idea to get several estimates and read the "Your Rights and Responsibilities When Moving" booklet, which contains important information in case your belongings are lost or damaged during the move. It is important to ask the mover direct questions to be well informed about the services offered.
Get a detailed moving inventory
A reliable moving company will do a thorough inventory of all your possessions, either in person or online. This involves checking every room in your home and all storage areas such as closets, drawers, garages and bookcases. If you have items in outdoor spaces, they should also be included in the assessment. This is crucial because the projected cost of the move is based in large part on the weight of your possessions and the volume they will take up in the truck. Be sure to inform the estimator if you do not plan to take certain items with you to your new home. It is essential to get an accurate estimate to avoid unpleasant surprises later on.
Get a written estimation from different moving companies
To make an informed decision, you should get estimates from several different moving companies, so you can
compare them. Make sure the estimate is based on an in-person inspection of your belongings, as explained above. We recommend getting quotes from at least three separate moving companies to give you a good idea of the costs associated with your move.
Hacks to avoid moving traps
There are several common moving scams, including:
- Hostage-taking: when the mover demands payment that is at least two or three times the original estimate before returning your stuff.
- Bait and switch: when the mover changes the terms of your move at the last minute, which ends up costing you much more than you expected.
- Exorbitant delivery charges: When the mover demands more money from you to get your belongings and adds extra moving fees for fictitious reasons.
- Late delivery: When the mover either misses the deadline to deliver your items or, worse yet, never delivers them at all.
- Irresponsible abandonment: when the mover collects your money in advance, closes up store and abandons your belongings.
How to avoid being a victim to a moving scam
Don’t pay a large deposit
It's best not to work with movers that require advance payment or a large deposit before your move date. Trusted moving companies will only allow you to pay upon delivery. If you pay in advance, you risk losing your stuff forever. When paying, use a credit card, as this can protect you from potential fraud.
Don’t choose a company with name switch
In order to avoid any BBB sanctions, some unscrupulous companies choose to operate under different names. If the company doesn't have a local address, if its employees don't answer the phone using the company's full name, or if you discover that the company is operating under other names, these are all warning signs. In addition, the company should be able to provide information about its licenses and insurance, including federal and state license numbers.
Preview your packing costs
If you choose to have the movers pack your things, be sure to check out the experience of the packers. While most are careful, you don't want to end up with someone who puts everything in a box without regard to fragility, then seals the box. Also, the cost of packing can quickly become too much, so you might want to consider alternatives such as packing yourself or asking family or friends for help.
Watch out for extra fees
Please be sure to ask your moving company what additional charges may apply to your situation. You could have to pay extra to transport your possessions into a building with stairs or an elevator, drive through a busy neighborhood, or navigate a tight street. While these additional costs are not excessive, it is important to discuss these costs in advance.
Never sign a blank contract
It is important to never sign an empty contract and to put everything in writing. Before you sign, take the time to read your contract carefully and make sure that all your belongings are listed in a moving inventory. If an item is not listed on the inventory, you will not be able to file a claim on it.
Say no for guaranteed quote
Three types of moving contracts are available (more details below). The contract called "guaranteed estimate" does not provide an accurate and reliable estimate and should be avoided at all costs.
Don’t skip the step of repotting any problem
You have nine months to notify the moving company of any problems and file a complaint about the move. The moving company has 30 days to acknowledge your complaint. Within 120 days, the mover must deny your claim or make a payment proposal. Since time is limited, try to inspect each box on moving day for damage. This way, you can note any problems on the mover's copy of the bill of lading before you sign it.
Get a hold of your moving insurance and value your protection
When moving, it is important to understand the different insurance options available to protect your belongings in case of damage or loss. Most moving companies offer basic insurance, also known as limited liability insurance, which covers damage to your belongings during transport at a rate of $0.60 per kilogram. However, this insurance may not be enough to cover the total value of your goods. It is therefore advisable to take out additional insurance for full protection. You can also opt for an evaluation of your belongings before the move, which will determine their value in case of loss or damage. It is important to discuss all available insurance options with your moving company and make sure you are fully protected.
Get a full value protection
One of these options is Total Replacement Value Protection, also known as Total Replacement Value Insurance. This option provides maximum protection for your belongings in the event of damage or loss during the move. With total replacement value coverage, the mover will be responsible for repairing or replacing any items damaged or lost during the moving process. It's important to note that this may come at an additional cost, but it may be worth it if you have valuable possessions or sentimental items that you don't want to lose.
Choose released value protection
Released value protection is an insurance option that is often included in default moving contracts. This option provides minimal protection for your belongings, as it limits the mover's liability to a specific amount, usually calculated based on the weight of your belongings. For example, if your belongings weigh 5,000 pounds and the mover limits their liability to $0.60 per pound, that means they would only be responsible for $3,000 in damage or loss. It is important to note that this option provides only limited protection and does not cover the full value of your belongings in the event of damage or loss.
Tips to save money during the move
Moving can be an expensive experience, but there are ways to cut costs and save money. First, plan ahead to avoid last-minute extras. Second, sort through your belongings an
d sell or donate anything you no longer used to avoid paying to transport unnecessary items. You can also save money by packing your things yourself, but be sure to pack them properly to avoid damage during transport. Also, research different moving service providers to compare prices and choose the one that offers the best value. Finally, if you have friends or family members who can help, ask them to help transport items or help you pack, which can save you money on labor costs.
How to hire a moving company
The most frequent queries regarding hiring a moving company are listed below.
How does a mover work?
Full-service movers handle every step of your move, from disassembling the furniture, loading and unloading the truck, transporting your belongings, reassembling the furniture and arranging your items in the desired location in your new home. If you hire a moving company to do the packing, they will provide the materials, pack your belongings, then unpack them and take care of the packing waste. Some moving companies also offer temporary storage space for an additional fee.
How much time should i dedicate to hire a moving company
According to our moving checklist, it is recommended that you begin researching moving services eight weeks prior to your scheduled date, obtain quotes seven weeks prior to your move, and schedule movers six weeks prior to your moving day.
Is it better to hire someone or to DYI?
The decision is based on your needs and financial situation. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. A do-it-yourself move will save you money and give you total control over the entire process. However, it does involve carrying everything yourself. With a professional move, you won't have to lift a finger, but it is less flexible and more expensive. To make the best decision for your moving needs, check out our guide to the best way to move.
How to get a estimate ?
The best way to obtain a quote is to make contact with a number of reliable movers and ask for an in-home quotation. During the in-home estimate, a representative from the moving company will visit your home, assess the amount of items to be moved, and discuss any special requirements or concerns you may have. They will then provide you with a detailed estimate of the moving costs. It's important to get estimates from multiple moving companies to compare prices and services and ensure you're getting a fair deal. You can also request a virtual estimate, where you show the representative around your home through a video call, or request an estimate over the phone or through email.
How long would i need to move my home
The duration of a home move depends on various factors such as the size of your home, the distance between your old and new homes, the amount of belongings to be moved, the moving method, and any special requirements. On average, a local move within the same city or area can take anywhere from a few hours to a day or two, while a long-distance move across the country or internationally can take several days to a few weeks.
When and how should i pay my mover
The payment process for movers can vary depending on the moving company and the specific details of your move. Some movers may require a deposit upfront to secure your moving date, while others may require payment in full upon completion of the move.
Should i preview a moving deposit
It depends on the specific moving company and their policies. Some moving companies may require a deposit to secure your moving date and to cover any upfront costs or expenses associated with your move, such as packing supplies or equipment rentals.
How much hours for a moving service
It depends on the specific moving company and their policies. Depending on the firm and the particulars of your relocation, some moving companies may have a minimum number of hours for their moving services, which could range from 2-4 hours or more.
The minimum hours requirement is typically in place to ensure that the moving company is able to cover their expenses and provide their services at a reasonable cost. If your move is relatively small or simple, it's still possible that you may be required to pay for the minimum number of hours.
Can i get a discount from my moving company?
Yes, some moving companies may offer discounts under certain circumstances. For example, some moving companies may offer discounts for military personnel, senior citizens, or students. Others may offer discounts for off-peak moving dates or for customers who book their services well in advance.
Why do i need at leats 3 moving quotes ?
Getting at least three quotes from different moving companies is recommended as it allows you to compare services, prices, and policies to find the best fit for your specific moving needs. Having multiple quotes also gives you the opportunity to negotiate for a better price and avoid scams. Understanding the moving process can be easier with multiple quotes as you can ask questions about the process, policies, and services offered by each moving company, which can help you make a more informed decision. Overall, getting multiple quotes can save you money and help you make the best decision for your specific need.
