Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, you’ll need a professional moving company to help you transport your belongings. They offer a full range of services, from packing and loading to unpacking and storing. Some also provide cleaning services for homes and offices.
Finding a good mover starts with asking around for recommendations from friends and family, as well as researching online and offline. Local industry directories are often a great source, as are real estate offices and furniture stores.
Check for credentials
A mover’s credentials are essential to verify. Look for a company’s moving companies durham nc Department of Transportation (DOT) number, and also for a carrier’s number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. These numbers confirm the company’s status as a licensed interstate mover and its insurance coverage.
Get a quote
A good mover will offer you a fair price, which will be based on the weight of your items and the amount of time it will take to complete the job. A quote should be given in writing, so you can make sure the price is reasonable.
Verify your mover’s insurance
The movers you hire will likely need to carry liability and property damage insurance. This should be a part of their contract, and it’s always a good idea to check the insurance details before you sign anything.
Read reviews
Customer reviews are one of the best ways to assess a mover’s reputation. Search Google, Yelp, and social media for both negative and positive comments. Be wary of companies that have a slew of negative reviews, however, as they may not be as reliable as other movers.
Shop around
You should always call or email at least three movers to compare prices and services before you sign a contract. A quote should include the cost of all labor and equipment, along with an estimate of any additional fees such as gas, parking, or storage space.
Avoid moving companies that require a deposit or large amounts of money in advance. These are common red flags, Michael says, and it’s a good idea to put the money on a credit card until you receive your belongings.
Verify your mover’s credentials
A good moving company will be licensed and insured, as well as have a history of complaint-free performance. These details should be readily available, and they should be listed on the company’s website.
If you’re unsure about the quality of the mover’s service, you can contact the Better Business Bureau or your state’s transportation licensing department to investigate complaints. You can also use the search tool on the FMCSA’s website to see if the moving company has a record of safety violations or government action.
Find a moving company near you
A reputable mover will be able to send someone out to your home to give you a free estimate. The person should take an inventory of your items to determine their bulk weight, and should be able to tell you what will fit in a truck and how long it will take to move them.