Moving soon? Maybe not soon but you would still like to be prepared? Here’s what you should consider when choosing a moving company.
Starting by identifying your priorities: price, quality, peace of mind, carefulness, reliability, speed, or all of these. Find a few local moving companies online or by asking friends on social media. Sometimes referred customers get a discount. Contact the companies and ask questions about the following:
- Rates. It is important to know if there are there a minimum numbers of hours of work. Rates usually differ based on the size of a crew. Don’t be afraid to go with more movers and get the job done faster. At the end of the day it may cost the same amount as with fewer movers working longer. Most moving companies also include disassembly and reassembly in the hourly rate.
- Travel fee. Some companies charge for the travel time between the office to the customer location and from the customer destination back to the company’s office. Other companies charge a flat fee for the travel. If possible choose a flat fee so you aren’t dependent on the traffic that the crew might be stuck in on the way to or from your location.
- License & insurance. Ask for a company’s UTC number. You can check online if the company is registered and official. Ask about the insurance as well. Don’t be confused with the valuation of damages during the move. Insurance typically covers loss and damage of household goods due to traffic accidents or other types of accidents. Valuation coverage is related more to damages during the move, like scratches or broken glass.
- Moving & packing supplies. Ask what the service includes and what type of packing and moving materials are going to be used. Don’t forget that if you are moving your items into storage, you should have your own blankets. If a moving company does not supply boxes, you need to acquire your own. The moving company may sell you boxes, but typical moving companies charge way more than if you get boxes from U-Haul.
- Digital service. Advanced moving companies work digitally which allows them to stay in touch with customers and provide convenient service.
- Quote vs estimate. A quote includes basic information, such as an hourly rate, travel fee, and minimum requirement of working hours. An estimate is based on more detailed information, such as having flights of stairs or an elevator, distance between point A to B, and a list of your items, therefore you will know how long your move will take. When you get an estimate on your move, you can get an approximate price and prepare your budget. Professional companies offer a free in-home estimate for big moves.
We strongly recommend providing as much information as possible on your upcoming move to avoid unpleasant surprises on moving day. Know your rights as a customer and read a consumer guide by UTC before the move day. Prepare cash for the final payment to avoid additional charges for card transactions.
If you have any questions, please contact us at info@twomenandamovingvan.com.
~ Two Men And A Moving Van
