Relocating is stressful. Don’t add headache by picking the wrong mover. A poorly-researched company may not treat your belongings with care. It could even try to scam you. Excel Moving and Storage, a trusted Carolinas-based mover, has provided these five tips for choosing the right company.
1. Start Researching Early
- Excel recommends beginning your search at least eight weeks before moving. If this isn’t doable, begin as soon as possible.
2. Find Recommendations and Reviews
- Ask friends for input on their preferred mover.
- Search for movers online, and take note of any reviews left by previous clients. One online complaint doesn’t necessarily indicate a bad company, but make sure there isn’t too much negativity.
- Real estate agents constantly help people move. Your agent may be able to recommend one mover over the others.
3. Gather Multiple Estimates
- Make sure to get an in-person estimate of how much your move will cost.
- Pick a mover who charges based on weight instead of cubic feet to ensure an accurate estimate.
- Don’t settle on the first company that comes into your home. Keep your options open and compare costs by considering bids from three movers, at least.
- Determine why your estimates vary. Higher-priced moves could come with a greater level of service, while lower prices could indicate fraud.
4. Beware of Red Flags
- Confirm that the company is licensed, insured, bonded, and registered with the Department of Transportation. If a mover fails any of these checks, look elsewhere.
- Find a physical address for the company; verify it online or in person. Only shady movers will not have a real address.
- A reputable mover will brand its trucks and put its movers in uniforms.
5. Request Documentation
- The Bill of Lading, Rights and Responsibilities, and contract are necessary documents for a move. You are entitled to the first two, and a copy of the contract. A professional mover will provide each without hesitation.
Follow this advice from Excel, and you will have a successful move. Call Excel today for a free estimate.