A moving company provides a variety of services to help people move from one place to another. Some companies specialize in local moves, while others offer a range of services for cross-country relocations. It’s important to select a professional moving company that can handle your specific needs and budget.
Long-distance movers must be licensed and insured by the United States Department of Transportation. They also need to carry a wide array of insurance policies, including released liability coverage, workers’ compensation, and basic vehicle insurance. These policies are designed to protect you from damage to your property and injuries caused by movers, so they’re essential.
Find a local moving company that offers free estimates and has a reputation for quality service. You can use online review sites to get a sense of their work, or ask for referrals from friends and family.
Check for licensing and accreditation: Different states have their own regulations that movers must meet. Many movers have affiliations with industry organizations that can provide information about their license and certification status. Some of these include the American Moving and Storage Association, the North American Van Lines, and the International Warehouse and Logistics Association.
Request a quote from several moving company brooklyn: Once you’ve found a few that sound like they might be a good fit, call them up for a meeting and get a quote. Ensure that the estimate you receive covers your move date, distance from your old home to your new location, and any additional services you may need, such as packing materials or furniture assembly.
Look for a company that’s been in business for a long time and has many positive reviews. You can read customer reviews on websites such as Google, Yelp, and Better Business Bureau.
Consider specialty movers: Some of your belongings, such as antiques and fine art, require special attention. Make sure your movers are aware of these items and will refer you to a specialty moving company that specializes in these kinds of shipments.
Obtain proof of registration: All movers must maintain active registrations with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and their state’s Department of Transportation. These are easy to verify by searching on the FMCSA website.
Assess their service offerings: Most moving companies provide a full-service package, meaning they will do everything from loading the truck to unloading at your new home. But some movers will also offer additional services, such as storage or custom crating of specialized items.
Ask about extra costs: You can expect to pay an additional fee for unforeseen circumstances, such as traffic or weather delays. Reputable full-service movers will let you know ahead of time what you’ll be charged, and they’ll have your signed bill of lading available before the move.
Choose a company that is available for you when you need it most: A professional moving company should be open on all their scheduled days and hours, especially during peak moving seasons. They should also be flexible and able to accommodate last-minute scheduling changes.