Thinking of moving to a new place but not sure where to begin? The most tedious task when moving is packing and loading all your stuff. Should you wrap up all the electronics first or the expensive crockery? Or maybe start with the furniture. The list is a mind-boggling one. It is no easy fare to move to another place. But your worries can be dialed down a bit with the help of an efficient moving and storage company.
Choosing the Best Moving Services
While a moving company might ease your pain, it is still a task to find a reputable and trustworthy moving & storage service. You wouldn’t want a shoddy company to move your belongings, overcharge you, let the items get damaged or worse, lost in transit! Hence it is of extreme importance that you carefully vet any moving and storage company you plan to hire.
Here are a few ideas that can help you choose between full service moving companies wisely.
Get as Many Referrals as Possible
A long-established moving company does not necessarily guarantee great service. The years of experience do not matter as much as customer reviews and referrals do. Any trustworthy company would be more than happy to share references of previous customers. You can also look for testimonials online or ask for feedback from friends and family.
Ask how the Moving Cost will be Determined
Different moving companies have different pricing structures. Some companies determine the moving cost based on the time taken and the number of professionals involved. Others charge by distance and the weight loaded onto the truck. Asking the moving company about factors determining the cost beforehand is always a great idea.
Inventory it Right!
Making an inventory list should be the top-most priority of any trustworthy moving company. This allows you to get an estimate of the moving cost. There are several softwares available with the moving companies with a visual estimator as part of a virtual survey of your space. An estimator can also come in person to check the storage spaces and large moving furniture such as bookcases, cupboards, etc. All these are a factor when it comes to getting an accurate moving cost estimate.
Avoid Companies That Ask For A Large Advance
Remember, no reputable moving and storage company would ask for advance payment or a huge deposit before the moving day. Paying a lump sum amount in advance means relinquishing your control over when your belongings will be delivered.
Knowing The Packer’s Experience Is Necessary
If you opt to avail the packing services offered by the movers, ensure that the professionals handling your belongings have ample experience. You wouldn’t want your glassware stuffed in boxes only to be discovered as shards of glass.
Look Out For Any Extra Costs Or Hidden Charges
Living in the second-floor apartment or moving into a 7th-floor multi-storey building? Moving your belongings up several flights of stairs would mean extra charges. When hiring a moving & storage service, make sure to double-check for any such charges.
Ask About Your Insurance Options
It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to moving your precious belongings over a long distance. Ask the moving company about the kind of moving insurance offered by them and get additional coverage if required.
Reliable Moving Companies Offer A Walk-Through Estimate
Any trustworthy company would offer a fair moving estimate based upon the items you wish to move, leave behind, donate, or sell. Making a list of items you want on the moving company truck is always a good idea.
Check If Oversized Items Will Cost Extra
Oversized possessions such as a swing or maybe even a grand piano are going to take up a lot of space. Make sure to check with the movers you hire for any surcharge that would be levied on moving such items.
Ask About The Loading And Unloading Process
A question that you must ask before hiring a moving company is who would be handling the loading and unloading process. It needs efficiency and experience to handle fragile objects. It is your job to make sure that the team of movers is up for the enormous task and physically fit to handle your belongings safely.
Whether Or Not The Fuel Charges Are Included In The Moving Cost
This is an important factor when considering moving to a long distance. Many full service moving companies factor in the cost of refueling when providing a general moving estimate. If fuel charges are extra, then this needs to be clarified before hiring the moving and storage companies.
Are The Moving Vehicles Frequently Serviced Or Not
Last but not least, poor servicing of moving vehicles says a lot about the company. Make sure to ask the moving company about their servicing schedule. A properly maintained vehicle reflects a reputable and trustworthy company.
Summing Up
With the right moving company at your service, leave all the hassles and headaches of moving your things to the professionals. Keep a clear mind and think about the amazing times ahead of you. Asking the right questions to the moving and storage company you plan on hiring is the key. Not only do you know what to expect but you also feel secure knowing your belongings are in trustworthy hands.
