A move is a time of mixed emotions. Whether you’re moving to a bigger space or leaving your old neighborhood behind, there will be plenty of ups and downs along the way. You might feel excited about starting afresh but also sad about saying goodbye to friends and communities you’ve learned to love over the years. The process might seem overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. But take it easy! Hiring movers is one way to make this transition easier. If you want to know how to enlist professional help properly, here’s the perfect guide just for you!
Set a Budget First
Before you start looking for a moving company, make sure your budget is set. This way, you won’t be disappointed or even pressured if the price ends up being too high. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, decide how you would like to negotiate the prices. Bear in mind that you can most likely get a good bargain during winter and fall when there’s less demand for relocation.
Determine Your Needs
The first step to this operation would be to do some research in determining your needs. Start by knowing the size of your move.
- Are you relocating a single-room apartment or a two-story home?
- Will you let the movers do everything, or will you handle the packing?
- Do you own special items, such as a piano, antique mirrors, or treasured collections?
- Will you opt for moving and storage services or relocation packages alone?
You can either choose to opt for a full-service move or let the movers manage certain aspects of the transition. Just keep in mind that the more services you require of them, the more you’ll have to pay.
Ask for Recommendation From People You Know
It’s always a good idea to ask friends and colleagues for recommendations. Ask them about their experience with a company in the past and how they would rate that particular business on different aspects like price or efficiency. People close to you will always be your best resource. Not only do they share their experiences, but they can also provide you tips to make your move less stressful.
Compare Quotes
Never settle for one offer. It’s always best to have several options. To make sure you’re getting the right services for the right price, collect quotes from top local moving companies near your area. Compare their track records, packages, and reviews to find the best one that meets your demands.
Request an In-Home Estimate
Every company always has to provide an estimate for the services it offers. If you’ve found a company you like, don’t be shy to request an in-home estimate. This will prove your movers’ dedication and give you a peek at how professionally they handle the process. More importantly, insist on getting a binding estimate. It will oblige your movers to honor the price they name and help you avoid hidden costs.
Avoid Paying a Hefty Deposit
Legitimate moving companies will never ask you to pay a large deposit. Most of them deliver the job first before asking for payment. At the same time, stay wary of cheap companies that offer suspicious rates without upfront quotes. These are usually moving scam artists who will lowball you at the end with additional fees or take off with all your items as soon as they arrive on site.
Check the Insurance Coverage
Assurance is the main reason why you want to hire movers. That’s why it’s only logical that they provide the appropriate insurance coverage for your goods. Before signing a contract, make sure to inquire about their liability and damage coverage. This will save you time, money, and hassle down the line. It is your money used to pay for the services, after all.
Wrapping Up
Hiring movers should be a pretty straightforward process. However, you still have to double-check to ensure you get your money’s worth or avoid getting scammed. Remember, research is your friend!