There has been a lot of news recently, particularly in the Texas area, about folks getting ripped off by less than honest household moving operations. There is great risk in hiring movers who offer seemingly great deals, but cannot necessarily produce the documents or the background information to prove that they are legitimate and that they have the experience and expertise that you need in a professional mover. Here are some basic steps you should take before signing a work contract with any moving company.
Be wary of any mover that will give you a firm price online or over the phone. Every move is different and the price will be dependent on a number of factors. In order to give an accurate bid that they can guarantee not to change down the road, the mover will need to do an in house consultation. If they are not willing to do that, you should look elsewhere.
Do an online search for the mover. Nowadays, any reputable mover will have a website, a local phone number and a professional facility in the area. A moving service should be more than just a truck and a couple of workers. If they do not have a local office or storage facility they may not be someone you should trust with your belongings.
Check the company out with the Better Business Bureau and the moving company associations for your state. These are easy to find online, and you can call them to request information about any company you are considering. Also, look online for reviews and testimonials for the company. If you can’t find any information, or only negative information about them, check them off your list.
Never make a payment up front before the work is done. Any legitimate moving operation will not request you to do this. Payments should only be requested after the job is complete. Make sure the contract does not allow for any price changes at any time. The price should be determined before the move takes place, and that price should be fast.
It is highly recommended that you hire a company that is affiliated with a well know national moving service brand. There are some good independent movers out there, but you should be a little more careful with these ones and do some extra research to make sure they are legit. With a well know brand you know that they have a reputation, they have the necessary resources and most of all you know that they are not going to disappear overnight and take your belongings with them. There have been cases of this happening with some fly by night operations.
Make sure that which ever company you hire is properly licensed and certified to operate in your state, and make sure they are insured. Take a look at their equipment and facilities to ensure they are up to date. and of high quality.
Be clear with the movers as to exactly what is included with the price of their services. Not all moves are the same so be sure you are on the same page. For example, is packing included or do you need to do that and they simply load the truck for the move?
The bottom line is that with so much at stake, from the safety of your belongings, to a smooth and timely move, you need to do your homework before signing a contract with any moving company. Don’t make a hasty decision. See what previous customers have to say about them and make sure they are a professional and dependable company. movers near me
