A moving company provides a wide range of moving services, from packing and storage to loading and unloading. They also handle paperwork and transport your items to your new home or office.
Before hiring a moving company, it’s important to do your research and get several estimates. This will help you determine which companies provide the best value for your money. You can do this by comparing estimates for different types of moves and for services like special item handling or insurance coverage.
Ensure a moving company is licensed and insured to do business in your area. The Federal Motor Carrier Administration (FMCSA) website offers a search feature for motor carrier licenses and Department of Transportation (DOT) numbers. You should check that the company is in good standing and hasn’t had any problems with the FMCSA.
You should also consider if the moving company you’re considering is a full-service or a partial-service mover. Typically, a full-service mover will handle every aspect of the relocation, including packing, loading, disassembly and reassembly, while a partial-service moving company only handles specific parts of the process.
The type of move you want will affect the cost of your relocation, as will how many boxes and movers you need. You should make an inventory of your belongings and show this to the moving company before they give you an estimate.
Your estimate should include an estimate of how much room your goods will take up in the truck and whether or not they’ll be placed on a flatbed or a dolly. The amount of space required will vary depending on your distance from your old residence and the weight of the items you’re bringing with you.
Before a move, a moving company will send an inspector to your home or office to take a detailed inventory of your possessions. This includes any indoor or outdoor spaces, such as closets and garages. This can help the moving company provide a more accurate estimate of how much room you’ll need in their trucks.
Once the inventory is complete, the moving company will give you a quote for the entire relocation. This is usually based on the distance and weight of your belongings, but it can be based on any extra services you choose.
In addition to providing an honest and accurate estimate, a moving company will offer tips for how you can reduce your move costs. For example, if you plan to pack your own belongings, they may suggest using large containers and stacking them in the back of the truck to reduce weight and space.
It’s also a good idea to ask for references from previous customers. A moving company’s referrals can help you determine if they’re a trustworthy and reputable company.
A mover’s cancellation policy should be disclosed during the quote process. It should include how close to the expected moving date the customer can cancel if they want to change their mind. This will help you avoid any surprises when it comes time to book your move.