4 Factors to Consider When Hiring a Moving Company

If you have a big move around the corner, you’re probably wondering if a moving company is the best way to go. While DIY moving makes sense in certain cases, we recommend hiring a moving company for cross country moves or moving your entire family to a new home. Unfortunately, the task of finding the right company is almost half the battle – and with all the horror stories of moving company disasters online, it’s hard not to feel apprehensive about making that final decision. We understand how hectic moving can be and we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of things to research when hiring a moving company to handle your next big move.

 

1. Customer Service: Do They Really Care?

Customer service is key when hiring a moving company. This isn’t like expecting good customer service at a restaurant, you’re entrusting strangers to handle your most valuable possessions. Don’t skimp on service due to a discounted price because you may end up paying for it in the long run. Select a company that is extremely accessible via multiple forms of communication such as phone, email and in-person consultations. If a company is careless or inattentive about answering your initial questions, they’ll most likely be the same in regard to handling your things.
 

2. Cost: Is the Price Right?

While nothing trumps customer service and credibility when it comes to hiring a moving company, the second most important factor is price. Moving companies usually charge per weight and mileage to ensure that their pricing structure won’t add up to a humongous bill at the end of the process. The small costs really do add up in a task as complex as moving. Seek out companies that offer good deals but be cautious of this as well – be weary of companies that are offering a deal so low that it seems too good to be true. In most cases, these companies end up being scams or offer extremely low-quality. 

 

3. Size: Van or Semi?

Moving companies vary in size and it’s important to select the one that fits the extent of your move. Moving companies provide options such as basic vans, mid-size trucks and semi-trucks. This is mostly up to your better judgement and depends on how large and complex your move is. While semi-trucks are the more expensive option, they’re also the safest and most reliable for cross-country moves. Remember to be very diligent in calculating the cost of each option as, mentioned before, details such as miles and weight can significantly add up. 
 

4. Licensing: Check the Credentials

The last, but certainly not least of these items, is proper licensing. A moving company should have an active authority status in regards to their FMCSA licensing and insurance – do not go with a company that is still in an application-pending state. Movers are required to have bodily-insurance, property damage and cargo insurance filed to cover the entire amount of your move.

Hiring a moving company is no small feat and it is extremely essential to do your research. Many unassuming movers have lost thousands of dollars by placing their trust in unprofessional and scammy moving companies. Moving is hectic enough, you don’t want to deal with a moving company that is anything less than the highest of quality. Find the best moving companies near you with SmartMove!