8 Tips To Consider When Choosing a Moving Company

How To Choose a Moving Company: Tips from Synchrony HOME

Whether relocating across the country or within the same town, moving is a major undertaking. Hiring a moving company might be just one item on your long to-do list, but it's an important one. Choosing the right moving company can help reduce stress and ensure a smooth transition into your next home. Keep reading for tips on how to choose the best moving company for your move.

1. Start Early and Research Your Options

Don't book the first movers you find online. Instead, do your research as soon as you know you'll be moving—the sooner, the better. By shopping around, you're more likely to secure a competitive price and a team of movers that's both trustworthy and capable.

Here are a few ways to go about your research:

• Search for moving companies online. Compare national chains with smaller, local companies.
• Ask for recommendations. Talk to your neighbors, friends and acquaintances who have recently hired movers. Ask if they were happy with their movers and with the cost of the services. You might also find recommendations from your real estate agent or home improvement contractors.
• Read reviews. Find customer-submitted reviews on Google; on third-party sites like Yelp, the Better Business Bureau, Angi and Thumbtack; on forums such as Reddit; or on local Facebook groups.
• Compare prices, services and reputations. As you compare prices, make sure you understand which services are included. For example, will the moving company provide boxes, or must you provide the supplies? Will they help pack your belongings, or will they only move boxes you've already packed?
• Check for licensing and insurance. Search for companies that are licensed and insured, which offers protection in case your belongings are damaged in the moving process.

Now is also the time to take inventory of the items you'll need to move and determine your timeline for the move. As you sort through your belongings, you may find that you're ready to donate or part ways with items, which can reduce the amount you need to move—and potentially reduce the amount you'll pay for movers.

2. Understand the Different Types of Moving Services

Different types of moves require different types of moving services. Compare the options to find the services that fit your needs. Here are some of the options to consider:

• Local vs. long-distance movers. Companies that handle moves across state lines are required to follow federal regulations above and beyond what's required of local movers who operate within a smaller radius. Local movers may also be more likely to charge hourly, while long-distance movers generally charge based on the distance traveled and the weight of your belongings.
• Full-service vs. self-service moves. Looking for a moving company to handle all the packing for you? Search for a company with full-service offerings, which are more expensive than self-service moves but don't require as much labor on your part.
• Additional services. Many movers provide specialty item moving services for things like pianos or antiques. Your moving company may also offer storage services such as portable storage units if you need them.

3. Get Multiple Quotes

After you've determined your needs, the next step is to collect at least three estimates from different moving companies. A good company will request a visual estimate at your home; be wary of those who give you an estimate without seeing the full scope of what needs to be moved. This may entail an in-person assessment or a virtual meeting to take inventory.

During your initial contact with moving companies, share details about what will need to be moved, including large pieces and specialty items. Also, let the moving companies know about any stairs or elevators their team will have to navigate—these details could affect the total cost.

Moving companies will often provide one of three types of estimates: binding, nonbinding and binding not-to-exceed estimates. Here's what to know:

• Binding. This estimate provides a fixed cost based on the approximate weight of your items. The moving company can't charge more if the load ends up weighing more; however, you won't pay less if the load ends up weighing less, either.
• Nonbinding. This estimate is a nonfixed cost based on the approximate weight, but could it change later based on the actual weight. Moving companies can charge up to 10% more on moving day if items weigh more than anticipated.
• Binding not-to-exceed. This estimate is also a nonfixed cost based on the approximate weight, with one key difference. If your items end up costing more than originally quoted, you don't have to pay more. If they end up weighing less, you'll only have to pay for moving the actual weight.

As you evaluate quotes, be sure to differentiate between hourly rates and flat fees and determine how extra charges are incorporated into the estimate. Watch for red flags like unusually low or vague estimates—if a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. A good moving company will provide a thorough, detailed quote for the job.

4. Check Company Reputation and Credentials

By now, you've browsed online reviews and possibly ruled out companies with poor track records. During your initial research and/or while requesting quotes from different companies, check on these important details to verify the company's reputation and credentials:

• The company's full legal name, and any “doing business as" (DBA) names
• Their business address
• Number of years in business
• Their U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number and motor carrier license numbers
• Any professional certifications they have, like the American Trucking Associations' ProMover
• Their insurance information and what level they offer. Examples include full (replacement) value protection, in which they're liable to repair or replace any lost, damaged or destroyed items, and bond protection—a legal protection that is not typically required of moving companies but can show good faith in the company fulfilling its contracts and obligations.

5. Evaluate Experience and Expertise

Experience matters when it comes to choosing a moving company. Read through customer reviews on Google and other reputable review sites to catch any immediate red flags raised by past customers. When you reach out to the company, ask about their history and experience with moves similar to yours. Remember to inquire about any details unique to your move—for example, if you're moving specialty items or an especially large quantity of items.

You can also ask for a list of past customers to serve as a reference for the company's services. Reach out to references to learn about their experience with the company during and after their move.

6. Consider Customer Service and Communication

Strong customer service can make the difference between a smooth move and a disastrous one. As soon as you reach out to a company for a quote, pay attention to their communication style. A company's responsiveness to emails, phone calls and other inquiries is a strong indicator of how they will handle any issues that may arise.

On the front end, transparent communication can help you define a clear, comprehensive scope of work with the moving company. This can help prevent unexpected issues during the move. If a company is unresponsive or slow to answer questions from the beginning, they most likely will be that way during your move, too.

7. Review the Fine Print and Contracts

Next, review the contract closely before signing. It should include the estimate, an inventory of all the items that need to be moved, any additional fees (specialty items, cleaning, equipment, etc.) and the pickup and delivery dates. Double-check to make sure payment terms, cancellation policies and liability coverage are spelled out on the contract.

Read all the fine print to identify any unclear or hidden fees. If you have questions, ask them now. Don't sign the contract until you fully understand your obligations.

8. Ask the Right Questions

It's a good idea to go into your initial meeting with a list of questions for the moving company. In addition to all the questions outlined above, here are some essential questions you may want to ask:

• What services do you offer? (e.g., packing, storage, specialty items)
• Are you licensed and insured?
• Can you provide a written estimate?
• Do you provide virtual or in-person estimates?
• What is your pricing structure? (e.g., binding vs. nonbinding, flat rate vs. hourly)
• What is your cancellation policy?
• How do you handle delays or unexpected complications?
• Do you have experience with moves similar to mine?
• Can you provide a list of past customers as references?

Get Moving With Confidence

Choosing the right moving company can significantly improve your moving experience. By taking the time to research your options and ask the right questions, you can find a reliable moving company that ultimately helps reduce the stress of your next move.

READ MORE: Tips to Create a Helpful Moving Budget