|
Moving is a multi-faceted process. After finding a mover and answering their questions, you may forget to ask some questions of your own. Use the following ten questions to assist you in the mover -selection process to make you feel more informed and confident about your relocation.
|
Image by nookiez, sxc.hu |
|
Background Checks
First, it is important to ask how long a company has been operating. If the company only has a few years of experience, then you may want to check the business's background more thoroughly.
Checking a company's credentials is important, but you might want to supplement online customer reviews with other references. Your next question should be if the mover can provide you with some other proof of good service.
The mover's readiness to provide you with references will be an indication of their reliability and professionalism. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) and the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) are professional organizations that can also provide additional insight into a moving company's reputation. |
The mover could have great customer reviews and an A+ rating on the BBB, but your third question should inquire about their license and insurance. If they do have a U.S. DOT number, then you can verify that information through the U.S. Department of Transportation. Verifying the legitimacy of the mover can ensure that your items are being transported safely and legally.
Determining Costs
While locating a mover, you are probably working on your moving budget too. Determining estimates and fees from potential movers can help you find a reliable mover with affordable rates. Your fourth question can be about the type of estimates your potential mover provides. The following three estimates could be mentioned in your conversation:
- Nonbinding estimates - These estimates can change depending on the actual weight of the shipment.
- Binding estimates – These estimates cannot change, even if the weight increases or decreases.
- Binding not-to-exceed estimates – These estimates can never increase. If the weight is less than expected, then you will pay less money.
|
| TIP: A savvy request would be to ask your movers for a binding not-to-exceed estimate since it's the best type of moving estimate available. |
Your fifth question should be about the moving charges related to your specific relocation. It's good to keep in mind the following information:
- Long-distance and interstate moves are charged by the weight of the shipment.
- Local moves are usually charged by the man-hour.
- International moves are usually charged by the shipment's volume.
Knowing these details before you speak to your moving specialist can also help you ask questions about additional policies related to these different types of moves.
Protecting Your Assets
|
Photo by iudit, sxc.hu |
|
You want your new home to be protected on moving day. Ask the mover a sixth question about how they plan to safeguard against damage to your walls and carpets. The mover should be able to provide you with information about their moving techniques and the type of protective coverings they use.
Not only is protecting your home important, but you want to ask the mover how they protect their workers. If the moving company doesn't provide insurance or workers' compensation, then you could be held liable for injuries that occur on your property.
The eighth question to ask the mover will help you assess how your goods will be handled and protected during the move. The mover should tell you about the types of packing materials they use, precautions they take during the move, and the range of their insurance policies. |
In addition to locating information about the mover's insurance policy, your ninth question should inquire about their claims procedure in case anything gets damaged. No matter how many precautions your movers take, there is still the possibility that something will get damaged during the move. Know the company's policy in advance so you'll be ready to handle claims as soon as they happen.
The tenth question to ask the moving company is one of the most fundamental aspects of your move: when will your items arrive at your new home? For local moves, it shouldn't take weeks to transport your belongings, but it may take that long for long-distance and international moves. Make sure to get a good idea of when to expect your items.
These ten questions can give you insight into the company's reputation and moving rates and policies. Being a knowledgeable customer can only benefit your move and manage your expectations. The moving specialist should be receptive and able to address all of your questions. Working with a professional moving company can make your relocation a positive experience. |
|