Choosing a Moving Company

Moving to a new home can be stressful. You have to pack the truck, hope that nothing gets broken during the drive, unpack the truck, and carry heavy furniture and boxes into your new home. Professional movers can take much of the stress out of moving day, but it is important to choose an experienced and reliable moving company. These tips will help you know what to look for when searching for a good moving company.

Get References – If any of your friends, neighbors, or coworkers have used a professional moving company in the past year, ask them about their experiences. A real estate agent may also be able to provide valuable references. Recent recommendations are best, as a company’s personnel and quality may change over time.

Check Credentials – After you have narrowed down your selection of moving companies, check their licensing and credentials online. Any moving company carrying goods over state lines should be licensed by the Department of Transportation. For both local and interstate moves, check the Better Business Bureau website. Don’t worry too much about a single complaint; look for recurring problems.

Get Estimates – Always ask for in-home estimates. Most companies also offer online or phone estimates, which are certainly more convenient, but they are not very reliable. Make sure to get estimates from several different companies. This will give you a better range of prices to compare, and will give you a chance to meet some of the movers you may end up working with. If possible, see if you can get a “Binding Not to Exceed” estimate, which limits the maximum price you can be expected to pay.

Pricing is an important consideration when choosing a moving company, but it is not the only factor to consider. Keep in mind that you are trusting these people with nearly all of your possessions; reliability and quality may be more important than price alone.