Approximately 900,000 moves occur in New York annually, according to studies. They are mostly moving within the city's five boroughs, and the fact that so many of them go smoothly is a wonder. A good mover is a must. But scams or shoddy practices can still occur despite so many smooth moves. Knowing every step of the process is in your best interest.
The following are tips for choosing the right local moving company:
Table of Contents
Things to Look Out For in a Local Relocation Company
Managing Inventory
Reputable moving companies will catalog all your belongings and determine their bulk and weight in advance, either in person or virtually. The estimator must check all storage areas, including cupboards, drawers, garages, and bookcases. Along with the weight of your belongings, the moving company's price is heavily influenced by the amount of space they have to transport them. Ensure the estimate you receive is accurate and complete.
Walkthrough the Process Thoroughly
Unless an estimator notes what you plan to move during his walk through your house, he cannot provide an accurate estimate. The estimator must ask what you plan to carry over from your current home to your future home. It would be best to inform the estimator of all items you do not wish to see on the truck. You can do so by telling them which things you will leave behind for the new owner, donate to a charity, or sell in a yard sale.
Be Careful About Paying a Large Deposit
An honest moving company won't require a large deposit or cash upfront. They will only ask for payment upon delivery. Your belongings will not be available when you return if you pay in advance. You can protect yourself against possible fraud by using a credit card when you pay.
Find Out What Their Reputation Is
Your best bet for finding an honest opinion about a moving company is to ask a friend, family member, or colleague for recommendations. Various online review sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, Angie's List, MyMovingReviews.com, and the Better Business Bureau have many online reviews available.
Beware of Movers Whose Names Have Changed
Businesses sometimes operate under a variety of names so as not to be assessed by the Better Business Bureau. Verify the company's licensing and insurance information and its local address. Callers should be able to contact the company using its full name. See if the company operates under any other names and has state and federal licenses. Browse online to see whether it has received complaints.
Get the Help You Need
Make sure you consider any specific furniture or moving needs you may have. Is there a piano in your home? What about sports equipment and exercise machines? Are there outdoor recreational devices like grills and pool tables? Typically, moving companies highlight their specialized skills on their websites, but reviews also provide an excellent source of information about their technical skills.
These services are considered “added-value” by a trustworthy moving company. Some additional added-value services might include the use of rigging systems, the provision of professional cleaning services after the move, the use of specialty crates for moving valuable items and artwork, among others.
Make sure the moving company can address the specialized needs you have. A moving company's experience is a critical factor to consider when deciding on the best mover for your needs.
Save Money on Packing
In general, moving companies aren't responsible for damaged belongings if you pack them. You may end up paying inflated prices for boxes and packing materials if you let your mover do the packing for you, not to mention the time and labor it requires. Ask your movers about their experience packing if you decide to have them pack. Most packers are careful, but you might want to avoid people who throw whatever they can in a box then seal it up with no regard for whether it will break.
Pay Attention to Extra Fees
What kind of house do you have? Are you moving into a two-story home? Do you need to move from or to a 10th-floor apartment? In that case, the movers will likely charge you an extra fee for negotiating stairs and elevators. Is your street too narrow for a truck? If they transfer your belongings to a smaller truck for delivery, you might be charged a surcharge. You should discuss any additional fees your mover may charge you with beforehand.
Blank Moving Contracts Are to Be Avoided
You should never sign blank contracts. You should document every detail. Make sure your pick-up and delivery dates are listed in the moving estimate, as well as any additional fees you'll be charged. Read over your contract and make sure all your belongings are listed. You can't expect your laptop to be in the box when the driver arrives if it isn't on the inventory list you sign before he leaves. If the item does not appear on the inventory list, you can't file a claim.
Problems Must Be Reported
You must report any problems with the moving company to the company within nine months of the move. On moving day, open each box and check for damage. If you find shards of glass a year later, you won't be able to do anything. Notify the mover of any problems with the bill of lading before signing it.
Usually, you will receive an acknowledgment of receipt from your mover after 30 days. The person who receives your claim must deny it or make a payment offer within 120 days.
Assure That the Mover Has the Necessary Licenses
In addition to comparing reputations, estimates, and additional services offered by potential movers, do some further research and verify that the moving company you choose can legally move you from your previous address to your new one. Licensing is required by either the Public Utilities Commission or the Department of Transportation. It is also common for moving companies not to use insurance, so make sure that you verify that too.
Final Verdict
Given the variety of options available to help your move be more accessible, it can be challenging to hit all the marks as you research each company. However, as long as you consider the factors mentioned above as you choose your professional movers, you should be satisfied with your decision.
In addition, it is essential to keep in mind that choosing a moving company should not be based solely on price. There are numerous other factors involved, and every moving company charges a different fee for its services. Focus less on the hourly rate you are charged and more on the overall value of your total move. If you do that, you'll avoid regretting not choosing a more expensive company with better reviews after everything is unpacked in your new home.
We wish you the best of luck with your move! For moving tips, browse our blog for more. If you have any questions that need answering, please contact Moving Companies Queens or call 718-313-0552. We are happy to help!