SmartHomeOwners

Moving to a new home provides an exciting new adventure for the entire family.  A new home, new neighborhood, new city - just waiting to be explored!  There's just one problem....how will you "safely" get all your valuable belongings from Point A to Point B?  If you don't have the means or helpers to move your own stuff, you'll likely have to hire a moving company.  Moving companies can be a big help or a big nightmare, so you should select one cautiously.

Types of Movers

First determine what type of mover you'll need.  Will you be moving hundreds of miles away or locally?  Do you need a pack and stack service, trucking service or household shipper?  Interstate moving companies will move your items from one state to another, but not all movers offer this service.  Some are limited to local services or moving up to a certain distance.

Recommendations and Licensing

Ask for recommendations from friends, family or co-workers.  It is likely that someone you know has moved in recent years.  Find out which moving company they used and if they were pleased with the service provided, including pricing and overall experience.  If you're unable to get recommendations, then check with the local Better Business Bureau and the Department of Transportation to find a reputable mover with a good customer service record.  Make sure the mover is licensed for the type of moving service you'll need.

Questions to Ask:

1.  How long have you been in business?
2.  How much experience do your packers and drivers have?
3.  Do you offer storage if needed?
4.  Is your company a member of a trade organization (i.e. American Movers Conference)?
5.  Do you provide everything necessary for the move, including packing boxes and materials?
6.  What type of insurance do you provide for my belongings?

Contracts and Hidden Costs

Once you receive an estimate from one or two moving companies, it's time to choose your mover.  Be sure to read the contract carefully, and ask for a detailed list of what to expect and what you'll need to do to prepare for moving day.  Most professional movers will come to your home to assert what is needed for the move so they can give an accurate price.  Be sure to get everything in writing and keep a copy with you during the entire moving process.

Look out for hidden fees such as packing material costs and packing fees, preparation of appliances, movers liability insurance, storage, and disassembly of furniture (beds, tables, etc.).  These fees should be included in your overall estimate, but you'll want to ask to be sure.

Notice if the company's representative is friendly, thorough when answering all your questions, and willing to break down the fees for you.  If not, then it's time to call another moving company.  The safety of your belongings is worth taking time to research and find reliable movers.