Congratulations! You are moving into a new home. It takes a lot of work and organization to get packed and on the road, but it's all part of the process. If you are using professional movers, there are some things to consider. The following tips will help you find a reputable moving company that will do the job right and at the right price.
Your first task is to ask friends, business associates and family to recommend (or warn you away from) a company they have utilized in the past. Once you have some names, it's time for you to do some research of your own. Take a look at any consumer review websites, such as Yelp.com, and of course, check with the Better Business Bureau. The reviews can help you narrow down your field of choices.
Before you call the moving companies for a quote, there are some questions you need to think about. Are you going to have the company move all of your belongings? Sometimes people hire moving companies just to move large, heavy items, such as a piano. Do you intend to do all your own packing, or do you prefer the movers do some of the packing for you?
Regardless of whether you do the packing, the movers do the packing or a combination of the two, your valuables are usually partially protected by liability insurance (typically .60 per pound) by the moving company. If you want everything fully insured, be sure to talk with the movers about any additional costs that will apply for full replacement value of anything that is broken. Also, be sure to inquire about restrictions or limitations that apply to the insurance. Insurance upgrades are often offered by the moving company, but may apply only to items the movers pack for you, or you may have the option to specify which items you want covered with the extra insurance. Some people purchase third-party insurance coverage from their own insurance agent.
Get estimates from three companies. Why three? You can more easily compare price differences. If you are getting three estimates, it is important that they are all done the same way. For instance, if two estimates are from movers who come to inspect your belongings, while the third quotes you over the phone, these are NOT like estimates and should not be compared to each other. IF one estimate is very much lower than the other two, some questions that might arise should be about the bonds and insurance protection these movers are carrying for themselves. It is important that the company takes responsibility for potential injury of their employees, not you. In addition, be sure that the estimates all include driving time, gas, mileage, lunch breaks, container size, extra costs for wrapping furniture, renting furniture pads, boxes for your wardrobe, etc. These extra costs should not be a surprise when it's time to pay the bill.
Ask if scheduling your move on a weekday is any less expensive than scheduling on the weekend. Sometimes it is. Be wary of companies that have no physical address, or that require cash for the move. Almost all businesses should accept credit cards in this day and age.
Remember that if you are doing a local move to hire a local company. Cross country moves have additional regulations and charges that apply and cross country or international moves should be handled by experts in that area.
Since the moving business is extremely competitive, most companies will try to provide good service at a fair price. But it pays to do your research and make sure that the professionals you are entrusting with your household will treat it with the care and respect you expect.
Author Resource:
Moving within the Chicago and surrounding metro area? Call on Checkmate Movers , a full service, professional, local moving company with a low minimum charge, simple hourly rates and no hidden "mystery" fees. Their experienced, capable people work hard to safely and efficiently move your belongings because it's what they love to do. This article powered by SEO 2.0 Services Distributed by http://www.ContentCrooner.com
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