Moving your house does not only mean a lot of work but also a good number of decisions that need to be made. There are dozens of tiny errands that will eat up your time money and even energy.
You have spent years in collecting the belongings and finding them the right spot in your house. Now you have got to pack it all at once and take it to a new place. If you’re thinking about moving to a new home, many people sprint towards moving companies to help them move.
Movers are generally experts in moving houses and handling packages and that is why people hire a moving company to relieve themselves from some burden. Remember that your movers will be handling your precious belongings and you cannot just trust just anyone with your valuable possessions.
Even after the most rigorous research and background checks, there is a possibility that you end up with the wrong company since there is a number of factors that will decide what kind of moving company will fit your needs. It is important that you ask a few basic but very important questions before you actually hire your moving company.
Ask for The Moving Company’s License Number
One of the worst nightmares that you can face when dealing with a moving company is to end up bearing a huge loss or losing belongings due to bad movers. Moving companies are regulated by their state and all registered movers are issued a license number. Hiring a licensed moving company might cost you more, but will give you peace of mind that your belongings are in safe hands.
Experience with a Specific Type of Move
Certain moves might require special expertise or special handling requirements. Not all moving companies are experienced with each type of need. For example, moving from higher floors of a high-rise building or moving goods through small corridors using staircases because elevators are unavailable.
A moving company that is experienced with different types of moves will be capable of handling your move comfortably.
What Liability Coverages Does Your Mover Provide?
One of the most important things that you should check in the terms and conditions is liability coverage. If you are not being provided any coverage, which is rare, you should run in the opposite direction.
Generally, you will be offered either Full Value Coverage or Released Value Coverage. The former costs more but offers better coverage. The latter is more economical but only offers partial coverage. Make sure you ask the company to show you their proof of coverage.
You may also buy additional coverage from a third-party insurance company.
Ask for References
Moving companies with a wide client portfolio and strong references ought to be much more reliable and a better choice. This does not mean that companies with few references are shady. Of course, some companies might be new in the business and might still be struggling to build their client base. These may not be incompetent but carefully considered.
That said, as a customer, you would be more comfortable trusting someone who has a proven record. After all, we’re talking about all your worldly goods. You want the moving company you hire to provide a safe and sound transition.