We can match you with the best mover for your needs!
Finding a quality moving company takes a certain amount of research and expertise. In such a crowded market, there will be countless of options for you to review. However, we urge you to really take your time and choose one that best fits your needs and budget. This is where we come into play. In an effort to help you select the absolute best moving company in your area, we’ve compiled a fireproof list of important questions that you should ask.
Are you a moving broker or a carrier?
If you’re new to the moving business, understanding the difference between a broker and a carrier is essential. A broker outsources services to different moving companies in your area. A carrier, on the other hand, will handle all of your services themselves. There are advantages to both so it really is a matter of preference and deciding what you’re most comfortable with. While a broker may mean lower rates, a carrier may be able to deliver a more seamless moving process.
Are you licensed through the FMCSA?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), is essentially the governing body of the moving industry. If a company has a moving fleet that isn’t licensed through the FMCSA, it should raise your eyebrows and lead you to ask why. Being accredited by the FMCSA lets you know that you shouldn’t have to be worried about being the victim of a moving scam. Ask for their US. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and enter it on the official FMCSA website for any additional information.
Can you handle all of my specific moving requests?
As you plan your long distance move, it is important to realize that your moving requests are unique. While many moves are standard, you have the power to literally decide exactly what you want. It is the job of the professional movers to execute your move to the best of their ability. For instance, if you have specialty items that you need moved, only certain moving companies are equipped to handle these kinds of requests. This includes things such as fine art, hot tubs, grand pianos and other hard-to-move items. Ask this question upfront to ensure that you’re not settling for a moving company that will let you down and fumble your highly anticipated move.
What kind of liability coverage is offered?
Although most customers and movers want to envision a seamless move without any damages or setbacks, the fact remains that things happen. With Full Value Protection, the moving company is liable for replacement of lost or damaged goods of the entire shipment. On the other hand, Released Value Protection, the mover is liable for a maximum of 60 cents per pound per article.
Do you have a cancellation policy?
While you may have your perfect moving day mapped out in your head, life happens. What if your job in a new city falls through and you need to stay in town for a few more months? Or maybe you’ll have a family commitment that pops up and forces you to reevaluate having to move all together. Whatever the case, it is essential that you have some flexibility with the moving company that you hire. Be sure to ask about their cancellation policy well in advance to ensure that you’re not throwing thousands of dollars down the drain.
How will the cost of my move be determined?
This is an important question regardless of whether you are on a tight moving budget or not. Knowing how your moving costs are calculated is imperative in helping you figure out how to save money and fully understand the ins and outs of your moving process. For most moving companies, moving costs are calculated based on weight, size of your household and distance.
What exactly will I be responsible for during my move?
Going over the details of your move with the company that you choose will save you a lot of worry and help you avoid mistakes. Will you be responsible for packing all of your belongings? Are you expected to help the movers unload at your new destination? Is it a full service move where the professional movers will clean up your old apartment after the move as well? If you are uncertain about anything at all, contact the customer service department at the moving company and get some clarity.
We hope that these questions can help put you on the right track to feeling comfortable and secure about the moving company that you hired. All that’s left for you to do is get the process started. Good luck!