Did you know that around 8.4% of Americans moved in 2021?
Planning a move is a big task and it can be overwhelming if you don’t have a plan. One of the best things you can do is hire commercial moving companies.
While the variety of moving companies out there may seem endless, finding the company that’s perfect for your needs may feel like a near impossibility.
It doesn’t need to be complicated.
With the right information and questions, you’ll have no problem making the most informed decision. Let’as explore everything you need to ask before hiring a moving company.
1. Ask About Licensure Before Hiring a Moving Company
When considering hiring a moving company, always verify that the company is licensed. A licensed company is required to follow certain regulations set forth by the state in which they are licensed. This means that they are less likely to engage in illegal or unethical practices.
Also, a licensed company is held to a higher standard than an unlicensed company. This means that you can be sure that you will receive quality service.
2. Can This Company Do Everything I Need?
When looking for a professional moving company, be sure to ask if they offer the services you need. There are a lot of additional services that professional movers can offer. These services can include things like packing, unpacking, storage, and more.
Packing and unpacking are two of the most popular services that moving companies offer. This is because they can help to save a lot of time and effort for people who are moving.
Storage is another popular service that moving companies can offer. This is because it can help to keep belongings safe and secure while people are moving. There are a lot of other services that moving companies can offer so don’t forget to ask them.
3. Does This Company Have Any Hidden Fees?
Many companies have hidden fees that they do not disclose upfront. Some examples of hidden fees include fuel surcharges, environmental fees, toll fees, and storage fees.
Fuel charges can vary widely depending on the size of the truck and the distance the movers will be traveling. Tolls can also add up quickly, especially if you’re moving across state lines.
These hidden fees can add up and end up costing the customer a lot of money. It is important to ask if a company has any hidden fees before doing business with them.
If they do have hidden fees, it is important to find out what those fees are and how much they will cost. This information can help the customer make an informed decision about whether or not to do business with the company.
4. How Should I Pay For My Move?
When you are planning your move, you will need to decide how you will pay for your move. There are a few different options available, and you will need to choose the one that is best for you and your budget.
One option is to pay for your move with cash. This is a great option if you have the money available to pay for your move upfront.
Another option is to pay for your move with a credit card. This can be a great option if you need to spread out the cost of your move over some time.
Whatever option you choose, be sure to ask your moving company about their payment policies. Some companies may require a deposit upfront, while others may not. Be sure to get all the details about payment before you make your final decision.
5. Does This Company Background Check Its Employees?
As a customer, you should always ask if a moving company background checks its employees. A moving company that does not background check its employees is more likely to hire criminals, which puts you and your belongings at risk.
It is important to ask if the company you are considering hires employees that have undergone a background check. This is important for the safety of you and your belongings.
A background check can help to ensure that the employee is trustworthy and will not steal from you or damage your belongings. It can also help to ensure that the employee has the proper training and experience to safely and efficiently move your belongings.
6. How Does This Company Handle Loss and Damage Claims?
It would also be a good idea to ask about a moving company’s policies regarding loss and damage claims. Find out what the process is for filing a claim and what evidence is required. Be sure to get everything in writing so that there is no confusion later on.
It’s also a good idea to ask about the company’s insurance coverage, in case something does go wrong during the move. This is important because it will protect your belongings in case they are damaged during the move. The last thing you want is to have to pay for expensive repairs or replacements out of your pocket.
Some companies will offer insurance as an add-on service, while others will include it in their price. Make sure to ask about this before you hire a company so that you can make an informed decision.
7. Does This Company Offer Shipment Tracking?
Before hiring movers, one of the most important questions to ask is whether or not they offer shipment tracking. This feature allows you to see where your belongings are at all times during transit.
It can give you peace of mind in knowing that your things are safe and will arrive when expected. Some companies may charge an additional fee for this service, so be sure to ask about it upfront.
Make Moving Easier by Hiring the Right Moving Company
If you’re planning on moving, it’s important to take the time to find a reputable company. Hiring a moving company will make the process of moving as smooth and stress-free as possible. Moving can be a daunting task, but with the help of a good company, it doesn’t have to be.
For more informative and helpful advice on moving, do check out the rest of our blog!
