Moving is a huge, expensive ordeal, and it’s tempting to skimp on a moving company when you’re spending a ton of money on everything else. Remember, though, that movers are handling your most valuable possessions. Learn how to search for affordable, professional movers so that your belongings are still cared for. Follow these tips for making the right decision before you sign a binding contract.
1. Find out what the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration has to say.
Once you’ve gathered a list of moving companies that you want to check out, your very next step should be logging onto safersys.org, which is the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website. Every business should have a USDOT number - enter the number in the “Search” field and then look for the following information:
The “Out of Service” section should say “No” next to it.
Under the “Operation Classification” heading, there should be an “X” in the field that says “Authorized to Hire.”
Look at the “Inspections and Crashes” section to see the moving company’s statistics.
There should be a rating of “Satisfactory” underneath the “Safety Rating” heading.
For people who are moving out of state, you’ll also want to check the “Carrier Operation” area to make sure there’s an “X” in the “Interstate” field.
2. Screen them twice.
You should never, ever hire a moving company without meeting at least one mover in person. The head mover should be sent out to your home to discuss the contract and take a look at what you have to move.
Also, you should always do a background check on all of the movers who will be handling your belongings. Ask for each mover’s first and last name before signing a contract. You can also check with the Better Business Bureau to screen the entire moving company.
3. Ask for an estimate in writing.
A quality moving company will be willing to give you an estimate in writing before you sign the contract. This is how you can price shop to find the best bang for your buck. Try to get estimates from a minimum of three different moving companies. If the company is having a hard time giving you a binding estimate, ask for a “Not to Exceed” estimate instead. This will guarantee that you won’t be spending over a certain amount of money.
When it comes to getting an estimate, part of the responsibility falls on your shoulders. You have to be clear about what you need moved by the movers and what you’re going to handle yourself. For example, people often pack their cars with personal items or breakable furnishings. This can seriously cut down how much the movers are going to have to handle, which can really affect the estimate.
It works the other way, too. If you’re not upfront with your movers about how much they’re going to take, you could end up paying much more than you planned on. Plus, if the movers aren’t prepared, they might not have a large enough truck to hold everything. Show them everything beforehand, including what’s in your closets, attic and basement.
Jason Wall is an avid blogger and contributor to SimpleMovingLabor.com, a leading nationwide moving company.
