A moving company provides a wide range of services, including packing, unpacking, furniture disassembly and reassembly, and storage. Whether you’re moving within the same city or state or to another country, it’s important to find the right company for your needs. A reputable mover should be licensed and insured. The best way to check this is to visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration website. You can also ask for copies of these documents from potential movers, which should be happy to provide them upon request. Unlicensed movers may offer lower prices, but the risk is never worth it.
The first step in choosing a moving company is determining what type of move you need. A typical moving service is a full-service move, which includes a crew that arrives with packing materials and packs up your belongings for you. Other moving companies offer specialty services, such as white glove moves for high-value items and custom crating for electronics and artwork. They might also offer extras, such as furniture assembly and storage.
Once you have an idea of what services you need, start shopping around. Ask friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations and read online reviews. You’ll want to get a feel for the company, and it’s often best to meet with representatives in person, especially for long-distance moves. Make sure you have a general idea of your moving inventory before getting quotes from providers, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
It’s also a good idea to look at the Better Business Bureau rating of each company, which can give you insight into how well the company stands up to customer complaints. A high grade means that the company is responsive to its customers’ concerns and is a reliable choice for your move.
If you’re planning to move long-distance, you should also be sure to check the licensing requirements of the moving company. The company should be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. It’s also a good idea to check with the movers themselves to see what types of insurance they have in place.
A reliable moving company should be willing to provide you with a bill of lading, which is a receipt of goods, a contract of carriage, and a title document all rolled into one. It should include the full name of the shipment, its destination, and the terms of service. It should also include the company’s contact information, which you should be able to find on their website or by calling them.
Finding the right moving company can save you time and money, so do your homework before making a decision. Choose a company that offers the services you need and can accommodate your budget. And remember, if something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and go with another option. Ultimately, you’ll be glad you did. The best moving companies are those that take the stress out of moving day, so you can focus on your new home and getting settled in.