Top Questions For Moving Companies
When you are looking for top rated moving services it is easy to forget a few things. Sometimes you know(instinctively) the questions you should ask, but forget in the rush of the moment. It is understandable. You get so caught up in the idea of moving. You cannot be expected to remember everything.
That is why we have created this blog for you. We are here to discuss the questions that you need to keep in mind, but maybe have forgotten along the way.
Is your moving company legitimate?
Now, this might seem like a idiotic question for a moving company, but it is not. Most moving companies have a phone number and location. They will probably have an online presence, but you cannot always go by that. You could also check out your state’s government site. Find out if the moving company is even listed on the webpage.
Call the company up before you arrange your move. Companies that do not pick up the phone to verify your move are not real. Once again, we know this sounds weird, but it is not worth the risk.
Some customers have arranged a move with a company(in the past) only to find that the moving company does not exist.
Does the moving company have credible references and reviews?
Do a Google search for the moving company in question. One of the best places to visit is the BBB(Better Business Bureau). The BBB site will tell you if the company is legit. Read over the reviews before you call to make your move.
No company is going to be perfect. The idea is to find a moving company that has more positive reviews than negative. You also have to be able to distinguish between an honest review and a rant.
There is a difference.
An honest review will give you all the facts both pros & cons. A rant review is nothing more than someone complaining because they did not get their way.
When speaking about references, the moving company has to be be able to show you references. A reference list is all the clients they have helped with a move in the past. Most credible moving companies are going to show you their reference list without any fuss. Once you find that getting a reference list is like pulling teeth, it is time to look for another company to help you move.
What is the difference between a moving company and a broker?
You need to know the difference between a company that moves and a broker. A company that moves poses as a moving company. They do that to sell your information to third-parties.
The third-party moving company might provide services at a lower cost, they will skimp on quality. You want a quality move. Once you work with a third-party to make your move, you will not be able negotiate anything.
That is why you want a real moving company. That way you can negotiate things the way you want for your move, including the price. You will not get that with a third-party. A third-party is basically a “take as is” situation.
Does the moving company have FMCSA alliances?
Let’s first discuss what FMCSA is. FMCSA stands for Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. The moving company you choose has to have FMCSA authority. This is important because the moving company is bound by state laws for any move. The company has to go by set rates and transportation ethics for a move. Working with a broker is not going give you the same results for your move.
Your move could results in lower standards and the company is not going to pay close attention to the details. That is why you need to work with moving company associated with the FMCSA protocols when you move.
This is a question that must be asked before you move. Any company that does not come attached with the FMCSA seal of approval is not with your time. You are better off finding another company to help you move.
What types of licensing does the moving company have?
This is another important question that sometimes gets overlooked during a move. Say, foe example, you want to move across the stare, but still stay within the state lines. The moving company has to have local and state licensing. Once again, that state and local licensing has to be with FMCSA.
Say, for example, you want to move from one state to another, or even across country. Make sure the moving company is licensed(in that respect) for your move. You can find yourself in some trouble by using an unlicensed moving company.
There are a number of things that can happen during the move, including having your belongings stolen. Unlicensed moving companies employee many bad seeds. The moving company is already illegal, so they feel them can get away with it.
Someone from the moving company could take advantage of your good fortune during the move. A lot of people get scammed using those services when they move. We want to warn you ahead of time.
What kind of paperwork does the company need for the move?
Every moving company is different. One commonality is that all companies are required to provide paperwork based on your rights during a move. You should also request copies of the inventory, billing, and any other paperwork that is filed.
What happens if the company does not provide the paperwork? Double-check the credentials right away. There is something wrong in Denmark if that happens.
What about the American Mover and Storage Association?
This is a must-have requirement. It will protect you against any illegal practices during the situation. This is one element that is often overlooked by some customers. They just assume that any company is going to have their best interests at heart. Some companies do not, and some have had to find out the hard way.
This is your life we are talking about. Please pay close attention to the details.
What is included in the estimate?
Read everything in the contract before you sign. Some customers just trust the paperwork, and that it is sound. That is the last thing you should do. This is your life you are packing up. It is your responsibility to double-check(sometimes triple-check)all the details.
Not holding the company to account for their contribution is partly your fault. You cannot just blame everything on the company. You hired them. That is why you need to be very careful about what company you sign with.
How they bill? Ask them how each thing gets tallied up. Some companies will charge everything under one heading. Others will nickle and dime every detail. You also want to make sure that all the estimates are correct.
A company can quote you any price on the phone. However, some start to add extra charges when you are not looking. That is why you have to be aware of everything that happens. Question every charge that does not look right.
Remember that unanswered questions will result in more charges. That is why you cannot leave any stone unturned. Most credible companies will understand and work with you through the process.
Please visit Top Rated Moving Services for more information on how to hire the right company.