Moving away from everything familiar is already a big decision in itself, and this is made even more stressful by knowing you’ll be moving far away. There’s no need to add to that stress by having unpleasant surprises pulled on you by a poor choice of company for your household goods moving strategy.
Request for specific, written estimates from several companies
Realistically, they won’t be able to give you an extremely specific cost analysis unless they check what they’re going to move. However, they should be able to send you a specific cost estimate, or, even better, give you cost brackets and package options for your moving needs. And don’t go for the cheaper ones, as there are horror stories of companies like this who won’t offload your household goods until you pay for “added” or “special” costs. The low cost may have been a basic amount, without taking into account certain factors.
Operating licenses are necessary
Do check with government agencies, particularly if you have to move across states. If this requires that they have licenses for both states, then make sure they do. If you’re moving within the state, make sure the license they present is recognized by your local government or consumer agency, both for your current place and your new destination.
Check on their insurance and customer service
This is an uncomfortable subject to research on, but you have to do it. The first thing to do is find out exactly what their insurance coverage is, and if it’s okay with you. Don’t forget to check on the fine print. Also, do look for reviews on how they handle damage claims. You should also clarify the process for this with the company, before you sign on the dotted line.
There is no such thing as a “generic” move.
How a person or family moves from house to house is a very specific experience. Do check with the prospective moving companies, if they can take into consideration personal requests for certain household goods. For example, you may have a grandfather clock that can’t be collapsed, but is fragile enough that it needs special attention. Find out how they will deal with such a thing.
Do look for moving companies that also offer expanded services, such as helping you actually move your household goods into your new home, according to a floor plan you will provide. Some of them may even offer house cleaning options, so that your house won’t look so dirty once everything is unpacked.
Give yourself time
Do your research a month or two before it’s actually time to move, at the very least. This way, you can also discuss with the companies you’ve shortlisted about any special requests. Also, you’ll be able to find out if there are added costs, or services that they are willing to offer at an optional cost addition.
While this may be a bit tedious, if you properly deal with these matters, it will mean much less headaches in the future – something you need, since you also have to deal with settling into the new home as a family.