In the time leading up to a move, it can feel overwhelming. Working with an experienced and reliable moving company can help reduce the stress and anxiety that often accompany a move. When you partner with a mover, it’s essential to ask questions. The following are five top questions you’ll want to ask your mover before your moving day.
1. Can You Provide an Estimate of the Overall Cost?
As you speak with your mover, one of the first questions you should ask is if they could provide you with an estimate of the overall cost of your move and whether the estimate will be binding. Reputable movers will always provide you with a written estimate and give you a copy to review before you sign on the dotted line.
This way, you know upfront what your expense will be, how much the rate is per pound (also good to know if you want to downsize before a move!), and any itemized costs. Once you review the estimate, be sure to ask for clarification about anything that isn’t clear to you. This includes, but is not limited to, additional fees, fuel surcharges, bulky items, or anything else that might result in a surprise when you get the bill.
2. Do You Offer Guaranteed Delivery Dates?
Moving companies will sometimes consolidate several customer moves if many move long distances to the same region. This saves time and money and is logistically easier (and can save money for customers too). However, one of the drawbacks to this practice is that it can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint an exact delivery date. If you need your possessions by a specific date, ask if the company offers guaranteed delivery dates and if they can accommodate the timeframe you need.
3. What Additional Services Do You Offer?
A mover’s primary service is to move boxes and furniture out of one home, load it in the moving truck, transport it to your new home and unload the truck upon arrival. But did you know you could also reserve additional services to make the move more manageable?
Ask your movers what additional services they provide. For example, full-service movers often offer packing, unpacking, labeling, furniture disassembly/reassembly, vehicle shipping, custom crating and delivering specialty items, and storage options.
4. What is Your Registration Number?
Every moving company is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) if they travel interstate. Upon registration, companies are provided with two identification numbers, the U.S. DOT #, and the MC #. Once a mover provides you with these numbers, you can check them out on the official FMCSA database to verify any company’s status. These are federal databases. It’s important to remember that local moves are regulated at the state level, so it’s best to check with them.
5. Do You Hire Subcontractors?
Sometimes large moving companies subcontract to smaller companies to help facilitate moves. This is reasonable, but you want to know who will handle your move. So you can run a check on the subcontractor. Any company that won’t share information about subcontractors may signal a red flag.
Ready to Book Your Upcoming Move?
Are you looking for a reliable mover to transport your belongings to your new home? Contact us today for a free quote. We’re always happy to answer questions.