How to Hire a Reputable Moving Company

You've bought a new home and moving day is here! The truck arrives and the movers begin unloading your boxes and furniture when you realize...some items are missing. And then you notice a grease stain on your favorite chair and your grandmother's mirror is shattered. Suddenly, your dream home is filled with the nightmares associated with an unreliable moving company.

If you are planning on moving this year - the best advice we can give you is to follow these 4 key ways to ensure your experience is a happy one.

1. Start by Doing Some Research

As with any service industry, there are companies that excel at what they do and others that do the bare minimum to get by. There are also companies that stoop to scamming their customers. The most effective way to find the kind of moving company that will treat your belongings with care and respect is to educate yourself. Go online and look at several moving companies. If you find a company that you like but have questions - pick up the phone and call. Make sure you get all of your questions answered before you schedule or make a payment.

• Is their website professional? Does it answer your top questions?
• Do they ask for a deposit or full payment up front? (beware of companies that want to be paid in full before the service is completed)
• Are they clear about what their service includes? What will you need to do/provide?
• Do they display their credentials? Ask for the registration number with the U.S. Department of Transportation
• Is the crew made up of employees or sub-contractors? Do they do background checks?

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2. Ask for References

There should be no reason that a moving company can't give you 2-3 references for you to call. When you do call one of the past clients - explain why you are calling and ask if it's okay to take a few minutes of their time (remember, this is a courtesy they are providing for the company. The last thing you want to do is make them angry with the company for giving you their information). There's no need to get into a lengthy interview, simply ask:

• Why did you choose this company? What did you like about their service?
• Would you use this company again to move your belongings?
• Was anything damaged by the moving company during the move?
• Were there any surprises (good or bad) during your move regarding this company?

3. Get an Estimate

Some companies may offer to give you an estimate over the phone and others will come to your home to provide a physical inspection. Understand that an estimate over the phone will not nearly be as thorough or accurate as one where the company inspects the amount of stuff you have, sizes, weights etc. Ask about additional charges that may apply if you have more items or require a larger truck. Make sure you know about all possible fees before you sign any contract or give payment.

4. Read the Fine Print (especially when it comes to insurance)

Most companies should be able to offer you proof of insurance to protect you in case any damages occur. In some cases, items that are packed by you will not qualify under the insurance and in other instances, the damage must be a certain amount before a claim can be filed. Ask about what steps will be required should damage or loss occur and you need to file a claim. A reputable company should be able to answer your questions. Beware of vague contracts and never sign ANYTHING without reading all of the fine print.

Key Take Away

There's a lot of work that goes into moving into a new home - dealing with a nightmare moving company shouldn't be part of it.

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Midwest Equity Mortgage

855-767-3434 | MidwestEquity.com

Now more than ever, you need to work with someone you can trust. Ask us about our A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and our incredible complaint-free record and you will know: you have found your lender! Why are you still waiting for the “big bank” to call you back? Get in touch with someone who cares-TODAY!

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