Moving to a new home is an exciting yet daunting experience. It can be especially challenging when you are moving long distances, as it requires careful planning and coordination of resources. To make sure your relocation goes smoothly, one of the most important things you need to do is hire a reliable long distance moving company.
Choosing the right mover can mean the difference between an easy transition and weeks of stress and worry about whether your possessions will arrive safely at their destination. With so many companies out there vying for your business, however, how do you know which one to trust? In this article we will provide tips on what considerations should go into choosing the best long distance moving company for your needs.
1. Research Potential Companies
Researching potential long distance moving companies is an essential step in ensuring a successful relocation. To make informed decisions, it is important to take the time to research each company’s reputation and track record. Start by getting recommendations from family and friends who have used long distance movers in the past or do an online search to find local and national companies.
When researching a particular mover, consider its credentials and ask questions such as: What is the company’s reputation? How many years of experience does it have? Is it licensed to operate in your state? Does it belong to any professional organizations such as the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA)? Does it offer extra services such as insurance or packing help?
2. Check Reviews and Ratings
In addition to researching each mover’s background, it is also important to read reviews from customers who have used them in the past. Reviews can give you valuable insights into how reliable the company is, how well their staff responds to queries and concerns, and whether the move was handled efficiently and professionally. Out of state moving companies’ review by moving expert Joshua Haley is a great resource to find reliable information about moving companies.
3. Get Multiple Quotes for Comparison
Once you have come up with a list of potential movers, it is important to get multiple quotes for comparison. This will help you determine which company offers the best services at the most reasonable price. When requesting estimates, be sure to provide information about your move such as expected date of departure, size of items being moved, and any additional services needed.
4. Consider Any Additional Services Offered
When choosing a mover, it is important to consider the types of services they offer. For long distance moves, many companies offer additional services such as packing and unpacking help, storage solutions, insurance coverage for damaged or lost items, and even pet transportation services. These can be extremely helpful in minimizing stress during your move and making sure all your possessions arrive safely at their destination.
5. Ensure Credentials are Up to Date
Always make sure the mover you choose has up-to-date credentials. This includes a valid U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number, which all carriers must have to transport items across state lines. You should also check for any complaints filed against the company with the Better Business Bureau and make sure they are properly insured and bonded for your protection.
6. Ask About Insurance Options
Before signing a contract, make sure you inquire about any insurance coverage the mover offers. This is especially important for long distance moves since items are more likely to get damaged during transport over large distances. Ask if the company covers damage or loss of your belongings and make sure everything, you are planning on taking with you is included in their policy.
7. Understand Their Experience in Long Distance Moves
In addition to researching the company’s credentials, it is also important to understand their experience with long distance moves. Ask them for details about how many long distance moves they have done in the past and inquire about any special services or advice they might be able to provide for your own move. This will help you get a better idea of how reliable and experienced the movers are in dealing with long distance relocations.
8. Avoid Unnecessarily Low Estimates
Be wary of movers who offer significantly lower estimates than the rest. Low-priced quotes may sound appealing at first, but there is usually a reason behind such low prices. Ask for details about why their estimate is so much lower and make sure to read any fine print in the contract closely before signing anything.
9. Make Sure They are Flexible with Your Schedule
Ensure the movers you choose are flexible with your schedule. Moving cross country can be a stressful process and it is important to work with a company that is willing to accommodate any changes in plans or delays that may arise along the way. Find out if they offer services such as temporary storage solutions or pick-up and delivery dates that fit within your timeframe.
10. Clarify Payment Details before Signing Anything
Finally, it is important to clarify all payment details before signing any contracts. Ask about the company’s policy regarding deposits and full payments and make sure you understand how they calculate charges for weight or distance travelled. This will help ensure that you will not be surprised by any hidden fees or additional costs down the line.
Conclusion
When planning a long-distance move, it is important to do your research and be aware of the key considerations to make sure you find the best mover for your needs. By understanding the types of services offered by movers, verifying their credentials and insurance coverage, and clarifying payment details upfront, you can ensure that your move is as stress-free and successful as possible.
