It is just a miracle that a move goes smoothly without any issues. With millions of moves, every year, it is challenging to have a completely stress free and a smoother move. While hiring quality local moving companies can make the process smooth.
But there are also some movers available who use scam and shoddy practices while moving. It is suggested you get rid of such moving companies. Here are some tips for you that will help you in finding out the best local movers for you.
Inventory of move
A genuine moving company will take in-person Inventory of all your belongings to determine the weight of the shipment. The estimator Who visits your home will check all storage spaces such as garages, drawers, cupboards and so on. He will estimate the space taken by your goods in the truck. Then the company will provide you the moving estimate.
Don’t pay a large deposit in advance
Genuine Movers wouldn’t ask you for a large deposit in advance while shady movers will. If you pay a large deposit in advance then lower the chances that you will have full control over your move. It is also recommended you to pay through credit card to save yourself from any kind of fraudulent.
Get references
If your friends, neighbors, and family do not have proper references on movers then you can do some online research. You can also ask movers to provide appropriate references. Ask them to get references of 3 customers in your area who have moved in last year under their supervision and services. Call those customers or if possible meet them to find out what kind of services the Movers provide. If their customers are happy and satisfied with their services then higher are the chances that you will get satisfied services too.
Beware of any hidden charges
Are you moving in from the 8th floor of the building? Do you live in a 2 story home? Of course, in such circumstances, the cost of the move will rise. You will be charged extra for the stairs or elevators by movers. On the other hand, like if you are living in a very narrow street where the moving truck would not fit and the professionals need to take more steps to load your belongings into the truck then again you will be charged extra. But asking this in advance will help you in letting know the total cost of the move. Try to take a binding not-to-exceed price estimate from your movers so you will have peace of mind to not to pay extra than this written estimate.
Avoid packing costs
Though the movers are not responsible for the damage of the products during shipment if you pack belongings on your own, in case if you hire professionals for packing then get ready to pay for several packing supplies and of course, for the professional’s labor and time. To avoid such costs, you need to do the packing on your own. But if you want to move your belongings safely then taking help from professionals is an ideal option for you because professional packers have experience in packing, they know how to pack fragile items so can be transported safely. Most packers are very careful while packing your items.
Avoid local moving companies with switched names
Certain companies work with a name switch but it is recommended you to get rid of such companies. Make sure that the company has a proper license and insurance. Whenever you call up a movers company, they should inform you of the complete name of the company. Search online to get the answers to your questions. Get as much information you can get about the company.
Is it a thorough walkthrough?
If an estimator performs a quick walk-through without estimating the total weight of the shipment or without noticing your needs then you should run from such companies. A good estimator will ask you several questions such as he will ask you about what you want to take with you a new location. It is recommended you to get your answers ready such as you should know what things you want to carry with you. Also, make a plan of items that you want to donate or sell.
Don’t sign a blank moving contract
You should never sign a blank moving contract. Get everything in written and then sign the agreement. It should be listed the mover’s estimate along with the delivery date and pick update. Read your contract carefully and if you find any flaw in it then you can ask about this from movers. Remember that you are not able to claim for anything if it is not written in your inventory.
At last, Report if you face problems
According to rules and regulations, you have only nine months to complain regarding any problem during your move. So if you found any damage after a year, you would not make any complaint. So it is recommended you to open all the boxes and check the condition of all the items. Check the bill of lading carefully and if you find any problem and report it as soon as possible to get a solution. A genuine company will acknowledge your problem within a month.
And after 120 days, the movers will come up with a solution. Don’t forget to take the bill of lading from your movers.
