How to Choose the Right Moving Services
When it comes to moving services, choosing the right company for your needs is a huge decision. Whether you’re moving locally or internationally, there are many factors to consider, such as the type of move, how much stuff you’ll be shipping, and what additional services your mover should offer (we’ll get to that later). The best way to narrow down your options is by starting your search well in advance, so you have plenty of time to compare costs and reviews before making a decision.
The cost of Moving services depends on a variety of factors, including the weight of your items and the distance between your old and new homes. Some movers use a flat rate pricing system, while others may charge by the hour. When getting estimates, it’s important to be clear about what exactly will be included in the quoted price — for example, if you choose a full service mover, make sure they include packing, loading, unloading, and mileage. Also, be sure to ask movers about their cancellation policies and other fees.
If you have a large amount of furniture and household goods to move, consider hiring a full-service mover to pack and load your boxes for you. This can save you time and stress, and it’s usually cheaper than doing it yourself. Full-service movers should provide packing materials and supplies, such as boxes and tape, as well as specialized items like furniture blankets and additional padding to protect your belongings.
Most professional movers will also offer a variety of additional services, such as appliance and home entertainment center disconnects/reconnects. While these add-ons will increase the cost of your move, they can be worth the extra expense if you’re unable or unwilling to do them yourself.
Keep in mind that some movers won’t move certain items, such as cash, financial and medical records, and medicines, due to their potential for theft or damage. And if you live in an apartment or condominium, your movers will likely charge extra for stairs or elevator usage.
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, check out their online reviews and customer ratings to see what other people have had to say about the experience. Look for positive comments about the movers’ reliability, responsiveness to estimate requests and bookings, and ability to address building issues. Also, make sure the movers are members of The American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA), which is an industry trade organization that works to promote professionalism and ethical business practices.