Researching moving companies is an important part of the moving process to avoid falling victim to scams. Here are some tips to help you research and find a reputable and reliable moving company, including checking reviews, asking for recommendations, checking with the Better Business Bureau, and verifying licensing and insurance. Additionally, get written estimates from at least three different companies and carefully review the contract before signing. By doing your due diligence, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free moving experience.
Whether you’re moving across the country or just down the street, it’s important to do your due diligence and research different moving companies before hiring one. Here are some ways to research a moving company:
Look for reviews and ratings
One of the first things you should do when researching a moving company is to look for reviews and ratings online. Check websites like Yelp and Google Reviews to see what other people have to say about the company. Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of the company’s reputation.
Ask for recommendations
Another great way to research a moving company is to ask for recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues who have used moving services in the past. They may have firsthand experience with a particular company and can give you their honest opinion about the quality of their services.
Check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
The BBB is a non-profit organization that tracks businesses and rates them based on customer satisfaction. You can check the BBB website to see if the moving company you are considering has any complaints or issues.
Contact the moving companies
Give the moving company a call and ask them any questions you may have. This will give you a chance to get a feel for their customer service and professionalism. Ask about their experience, the types of services they offer, and their pricing. Check out our article with 5 Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Moving Company.
Research their licensing and insurance
Make sure the moving company is licensed and insured. You can check with your state’s Department of Transportation to verify the company’s licensing. You should also ask about their insurance coverage to ensure that your belongings are protected in case of damage or loss during the move.
Here are some resources that you may find helpful for learning more about moving insurance:
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- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration: https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/protect-your-move/moving-insurance
- American Moving & Storage Association: https://www.moving.org/moving-insurance/
- National Association of Moving Companies: https://www.namc.com/moving-insurance
Get estimates
Get written estimates from at least three different moving companies. Ensure to provide a detailed list of the items you need to move, including any large or fragile items. Compare the estimates to see which company offers the best value for your money.
Understand the terms of the contract: Carefully review the contract before signing it. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions, including the total cost, the date of the move, and any additional fees or charges. Ask any questions you may have and clarify any points that are not clear before signing the contract.
Following these steps, can help you in researching moving companies and ensure that you are hiring a reputable and reliable moving company that will provide a smooth and stress-free moving experience. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and do your research – it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to entrusting your belongings to a moving company.
