Choosing the right moving company is one of the most important decisions you can make for your move. The right mover can reduce the stress of your move and save you money. A reliable company will also protect your belongings during transit and ensure the safety of your valuables and personal effects.
Whether you’re moving to a new apartment in NYC or changing offices in the corporate world, you want to find a reputable mover that will take care of your belongings and work with your schedule. It’s best to do your research before choosing a mover and get estimates from several companies. It’s a good idea to use video chat or have the movers visit your home for an in-person assessment. It’s also a good idea to read online reviews and check the company’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating.
Local moves:
A full-service moving company will handle all aspects of your move, from packing and loading to transport and unloading. They can even arrange for storage in between relocations. Many local movers are independently owned, while others are part of larger national or international moving companies or van lines.
Long-distance moves:
The fees for a long-distance move moving company Land O’Lakes, FL are usually calculated by the weight of your shipment and the distance between destinations, plus any specialty services you may need. You can usually expect a firm quote within 24 hours of a survey of your items. However, if the moving company’s estimate is much lower than other quotes you have received, be wary. It may be a sign that the company is trying to undersell you or will add hidden fees later.
Residential and commercial moves:
Allied provides full-service, fragile item and self-packing options as well as custom crating, furniture disassembly and reassembly, installation services, storage and auto transport. Their movers are fully licensed and insured, and they promise on-time delivery. They also offer free shipment tracking and up to 90 days of in-transit storage.
Moving companies that offer specialized services:
Some moving companies offer specialized options such as antique and fine art moving, onsite storage, pet relocation and vehicle shipping. Be sure to read the fine print and make sure your mover is properly licensed and insured for these types of services.
Red flags to watch for:
A few red flags to look out for when shopping around for a moving company include an in-home estimate, poor online reviews and a lack of license and insurance. If a mover refuses to provide these details, or is unwilling to negotiate pricing, it’s probably a good idea to keep looking. Also, beware of a mover that uses unmarked trucks or does not have a physical address. Both of these issues can be a sign of a fly-by-night moving company that is likely to disappear before your move is completed. Lastly, any legitimate mover will prepare a bill of lading that includes a clear description of the services provided and the total cost.