Tips for Choosing a Reputable Moving Company

You have the contract complete for the purchase of your new home, you have a settlement date, and you know when you want to move.  Now you need to choose a moving company to assist you in that move.  The moving company will be moving all your personal valuables from one home to the other so you want to make sure you choose a company with a good reputation for high quality work.  Below are some tips that should help you do this.

• Always get a written estimate from more than one company.
  • You will want to get a written estimate from at least three companies.
  • The estimate should be based on an inspection of your household goods to ensure it is accurate.
  • The estimate should include not only the price but what exactly is included with that price.  For example, will they help pack items into boxes or just move boxes from one home to the truck to the new home?
  • In addition to an estimate once you have hired a company they should provide you with a contract stating all services that will be provided and the price. The contract should then be signed by yourself and the company.  It is essential you are given a copy of this.
  • Ensure the company is properly licensed and insured.
    • You will need to go to each individual state’s website to see what licenses moving companies are required to have.  In Maryland, there are no license requirements for moving companies.
    • For interstate moves the company must be issued a U.S. DOT number by FMCSA.  You can check a company’s license by going to www.protectyourmove.gov. 
    • You will want to check with the moving company that they have proper and adequate insurance that will cover any potential accidents or issues during the move.
    • You will also want to make sure for interstate moves that the company hands you the booklet “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” which they are required to do so according to federal law. 
    •   Know Your Priorities
      • Cheap is not always best when it comes to choosing a moving company.  The quality of the service being provided should be your first priority and then cost. 
      • It is important to check with the Better Business Bureau to find out what the reputation of the moving company is.
      • It is also a good idea to ask the company for some references and call them to get an opinion direct from an actual customer how their experience with that company was.
      • When you go to compare estimates you also want to compare what you found out about the company’s reputation.  You may find it to be worth spending a little extra money for peace of mind that your move should go smoothly

Remember during the entire process of hiring a moving company your goods are important to you.  Moving can be stressful enough without having to worry that your goods will not arrive to your new home intact and on time.  Pick a company you can feel comfortable with.