Did you know that the average American moves at least five separate times throughout their lifetime? Most people move due to job opportunities, family, or for warmer weather. Regardless of why people move, preparation is vital when it comes to planning for your moving day.
Finding the right moving company is one of the most critical aspects of your moving preparation. However, when you need to choose residential moving companies, the process isn’t always so straightforward. The trick is knowing what key factors to look for.
Keep reading this guide to learn everything you need to know about choosing residential moving companies!
Do Online Research
When you’re looking at your options for moving companies, it’s essential to do thorough research before committing to a company.
First, choose five residential moving companies in your area and begin reading online reviews for each company. Read through both positive and negative reviews, and pay attention to how the company responds to negative reviews.
Checking reviews gives you a solid idea of how past customers have felt about the quality of their services.
It’s also a good idea to check the Better Business Bureau (BBB). You’ll typically find reviews, ratings, and a history of complaints for each company.
In addition, check company websites for customer testimonials and information about the services they offer. You’ll also be able to see how long each company has been in business and how much residential moving experience they have.
Check Licensure and Qualifications
You’ll save yourself a lot of headaches if you do your due diligence when researching a moving company’s licensure and qualifications.
While many moving companies are reliable and trustworthy, some companies operate illegally and scam people.
Interstate movers are required to be licensed with the United States Department of Transportation since they move goods across state lines. On the other hand, residential movers typically need state licenses, and their drivers need to hold commercial driver’s licenses. Some companies offer both local and long-distance moving services.
In addition, many people also use multiple moving companies. For example, moving from LA to NYC may require both interstate and local moving companies.
So, you’ll need to verify all this information before agreeing to commit to the company.
Get a Good Understanding of the Services Moving Companies Offer
Remember, not all moving companies offer the same services. The last thing you want to do is choose a moving company that won’t provide everything you need.
Your first step is determining how much you’re moving and what extra services you’ll need. For example, if you aren’t packing your own belongings, you’ll need a moving company that offers packing services.
In addition, some companies offer temperature-controlled storage units. Be sure to check into this service if you’ll need to store your belongings for some time before moving them into your new home.
Other services to look for include:
- Appliance servicing
- Rigging large furniture through windows
- Furniture assembly
- Moving valuable items
- Moving bulky items
- Piano moving
- Services that include moving supplies
Compare Moving Service Costs
The moving company you choose should be transparent regarding their rates and fees. The rates and fees should also be easy to understand when comparing moving service costs.
Getting quotes from the top three moving companies from your research is best. Doing this gives you an excellent overall view of moving costs in your area.
Typically, a moving company will charge a flat hourly rate for a local move. However, different states have rules as to what defines a local move.
In some states, if you’re moving over 50 miles away, you’ll have to pay based on the weight of your items. In other cases, some states define a long-distance move as over 100 miles from your home.
So, your first step is to talk to the moving company about how they define a local move.
Next, you’ll need to ask about the cost of the other services they provide, like packing services. Some moving companies will also charge additional labor costs if your move requires more movers. Also, you may have to pay for add-ons such as felt pads, mattress bags, or stretch wrap.
Other costs you’ll need to consider include:
- Moving supplies like boxes and packing paper
- Moving time and date can sometimes result in extra fees
- Insurance coverage
- Gratuity
Ask About Insurance Coverage Options
Before settling on a moving company, you’ll need to check that they have the proper insurance coverage. Remember, verifying insurance coverage is essential to protect your belongings during a move.
The best thing to do is ask the moving company for their insurance certificate.
Moving companies in the US should carry specific types of insurance coverage. First, auto liability insurance protects your home in case an employee backs into your garage door while driving the moving truck.
Workers’ compensation insurance covers employees injured on the job and is a requirement in most states. If a moving company has this coverage, it’s a great sign you’re choosing a reputable company.
Cargo insurance policies provide coverage for your personal belongings while they’re in transit between your old home and your new home. This insurance should protect your furniture, household items, and other luxury items.
Finally, reputable moving companies also have general liability insurance. Although it’s not a requirement, companies typically carry this insurance for liability protection. General liability insurance provides coverage for things like:
- Property damage
- Injuries you could sustain
- Long-term medical costs
- Legal costs
Moving companies also offer basic liability coverage that’s based on the weight of your belongings.
How to Choose Residential Moving Companies
Now that you know how to choose residential moving companies, you’ll easily be able to find a reputable company that offers the services you need.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get clarification on pricing. Remember, reputable companies will have no problem spending time giving you as much information as possible.
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