Steps to Follow When Engaging Moving Companies

Whether you are being forced to move because of financial or employment circumstances or making the move to your dream house, moving to a new residence can be a stressful experience. The good news is that if you do the proper planning and hire the right moving company, it can be done with little or no stress.

Finding the right moving company is critical to a smooth problem-free move. When looking to engage a moving company, following the steps that follow will help make the move easier:

 If your move is local, go online and search specifically for moving companies in your area. If this is an out-of-state move, type in “national moving companies.” Your search will pull up not only individual moving companies but also websites that allow you to do some comparison shopping for local movers.

1. Enter your zip code into sites such as MoversCorp. com and it will help you compare local moving companies.


2. Interview at least three companies. Make a list and be very specific about what you want them to do. Each of the companies needs to get the same information so that the estimates they give you will be accurate comparisons.


3. Before you commit to a specific company, make sure you check that the moving company has all of the necessary licenses, permits and insurance required and has experience doing the type of move you are making.


4. Log onto review sites like the Better Business Bureau, Yelp.com and Angie's list. You will find honest reviews of the movers you are contemplating hiring. 


5. Confirm the date and hire your mover well in advance. Ask them for any assistance they can offer with respect to packing materials and logistics. Many of them have checklists that will help you get organized.


6. Make sure you have everything in writing including when payments are due and how payments are to be made. Refer specifically to things like amount of insurance, and any extras.


7. If you have any flexibility, ask about adjusting your moving date. There are slow times and peak times in the moving industry and you can possibly save money by choosing a slow time. 


8. If the company is requiring a deposit before the date of the move, make sure you pay with a credit card.  This will give you some protection and recourse in the event the mover does not show up.

 Following these basic guidelines will help you find an experienced and reputable mover.