Moving is a difficult process that requires a lot of attention and commitment, so it’s no surprise that most people choose to outsource it to specialists. However, finding the right company is also a burden. Let us help you out — here are five key questions that will show you whether a certain team is a good fit for you.
Are you licensed and insured?
When it comes to long-distance moves, especially interstate ones, licensing and insurance are extremely important. Trustworthy moving companies can provide all the necessary documentation that proves their qualifications and provides an important layer of protection for any lost items, damage, or other liability concerns.
If you encounter a company that cannot prove its licensing and insurance, then you should treat it as a big red flag and avoid using their services. In the moving industry, safety is a number one priority for both customers and service providers.
What’s included in the estimate?
Learn what the company includes in their estimates so that the resulting costs don’t come as a surprise. Discuss what’s typically involved in a quote: loading, unloading, transportation, packing services, fuel charges, tolls, etc. Make sure that there are no hidden fees for stairs, heavy items, or anything else Ideally you should compare these conditions with other companies before making a final decision.
How do you handle delays or schedule changes?
Long distances are inevitably associated with risks of delays — the longer the road, the more likely it is for something to go wrong. Border security issues, technical problems, sudden health-related accidents — the chances of this happening are doubled for long-distance shipments, and the company should provide reasonable safety guarantees for you.
Learn how the company handles changes in schedule or any other unexpected issues, how it will communicate these problems, and what kind of compensation it offers if delays happen. This way you will protect yourself from unpleasant surprises and will be prepared for any scenario.
What kind of experience do you have with long-distance moves?
While there are many moving companies eager to help you out, not all of them are experienced with long hauls and out-of-state regulations, and that lack of experience can come into play in the worst possible ways and at most unfortunate times. Ask the company’s representative how many similar moves they do per year, whether they subcontract parts of the job, and check references and reviews from other long-distance moves to get a full picture.
Ideally, the company will offer more than just a standard service — for example, experienced long-distance movers often have a dedicated specialist who works directly with customs to ensure quick cross-border moves.
What is your claims process for lost or damaged items?
While any moving company will assure you that they will do its best to prevent any losses or damage, accidents can still happen. This is why you need to know how you can file a claim, how long it takes, and what proof is required to make things right.
Make sure you fully understand the company’s policies on reimbursement or repair and find out if the team offers additional insurance beyond the minimum coverage.
