Hiring a full-service moving company is a great way to simplify the process of relocating, but it’s important to know what to look for before committing.
There are dozens of factors to consider when preparing to move, but hiring a moving company can take some of this stress off your plate. Whether you’re moving across the country or around the block, these professionals can make your life immensely easier with their buffet of reputable services; but with so many options out there, how do you choose?
Today, we’re taking a closer look at what you should look for in a moving company to ensure a 5-star experience.
Recommendations From People You Trust
As you begin your search for a full-service moving company, start by asking people you trust. The internet might not always garner the most reliable reviews, but hearing about experiences from the people closest to you is incredibly helpful.
For example, it’s possible your close friend had a negative experience with a highly-rated company that you otherwise wouldn’t have discovered. On the other hand, you might know someone who had an extremely positive experience with a new company without a robust online presence. Either way, reaching out to your friends and family can help you glean helpful insight to help you make your decision.
Positive Reviews
Use online reviews to learn more about them once you’ve narrowed your search down to a handful of moving companies. As you browse through positive and negative reviews, take them with a grain of salt.
In a survey by GatherUp, 600 consumers were asked why they leave online reviews. 33% of the respondents replied with, “When the service was really good or really bad.” When an experience is average, people don’t tend to leave reviews. Find a company that has more praise than criticism and pay attention to how the company responds to these reviews. Use feedback to clue you into essential variables you otherwise wouldn’t have known.
License and Insurance
Horror stories of stolen or damaged possessions during a move plague the internet, so that’s why it’s vital to choose a reputable moving company. One way to determine whether a company is trustworthy is to verify its credentials. The business should be licensed and insured so that they are legally bound to protect your property. At Best of the West Movers, we are licensed and insured, and we provide all of the equipment necessary to move your belongings safely.
Coverage Options
As you search for the ultimate moving company, inquire about supplemental coverage options. Moving coverage is an insurance-like service that covers potential damages to your belongings during transit. All moving businesses are required to provide basic liability coverage free of charge, but you might want to consider purchasing additional coverage.
Basic liability insurance is based on weight, paying up to 60 cents per pound per item. This means that if a moving company accidentally shatters your great-grandmother’s 300-pound China cabinet, they would only reimburse you up to $180. That’s probably not enough to replace this precious piece of furniture, so you might want to look into additional coverage options in case of accidents.
Transparency
Moving companies can’t give you an exact rate over the phone, but a trustworthy business will be as transparent about costs as possible. Most companies will provide you with a base rate based on the number of movers you’ll likely need and the hours it will take.
However, additional fees are always added in the long run, such as packing materials, heavy object charges, or incidentals. A respectable company will be forthcoming with this information and help you stay within your predetermined budget. In addition, you can ask them how they calculate their fees and whether they offer price matching.
Services That Meet Your Needs
Every move is unique and requires different services to complete the movie efficiently. As you research various moving companies, be sure to choose one that has all of the necessary services to accommodate your needs. Here are some factors to consider:
- Is your move local or long-distance? Does the company cover both types of moves?
- Are you moving from a home, business, or commercial space?
- Is the moving company available in the time window that meets your needs?
- Will the company provide packing and moving supplies, such as dollies, bubble wrap, boxes, and blankets?
- Do I need loading and unloading or packing services?
- Does the company cover furniture assembly/disassembly?
- Are they able to transport specialty items like pianos and hot tubs?
Beware of Scams
Don’t become a victim of a moving scam. Here are a few tips to help determine the legitimacy of a moving company:
- Thoroughly read and scrutinize the moving contract
- Understand any and all fees before signing a contract
- Be aware of companies that low-ball their bids or offer a “one-price-fits-all” bid
- Document everything and file a written claim for loss or damage to your belongings
- Expect an on-site visit to assess the scale of your move
- Be wary of companies who demand cash or a large deposit before the move
- Use FMCSA’s search tool to verify their registration and find a complaint history
- Check legitimacy on the Better Business Bureau
- Become well-informed about potential moving fraud before hiring a moving company
Choose Best of the West Movers for a Stress-Free Move
If you’re looking for the most efficient and reputable full-service moving company in Utah, look no further! Best of the West Movers is proud to offer numerous moving services to fit all of your unique needs. Our team of professionals is more than qualified to assist you with whatever you need. Plus, we offer an affordable rate that you’ll love.
We’re pleased to serve residents in Davis and Salt Lake County, Utah, including Kaysville, Bountiful, Murray, South Jordan, Draper, and more! Reach out with any questions you might have and receive your free estimate today. We look forward to hearing from you!
