Did you know that 2022 was the busiest moving year in the past decade? Last year, 27.3 million Americans moved residential locations, which equals about 8.6% of the total U.S. population. That’s an increase of about 4% from 2021.
Is 2023 the year that you’ll join those ranks?
If you plan to put down new roots soon, then it’s important to choose a moving company that can get you there. Yet, not all teams are created equal.
Today, we’re sharing four tips to help you choose the best moving company in your area, so you can settle in confidently.
1. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
When moving day is only a few days away, you’re going to have a lot on your plate. Between packing up, making arrangements at school and work, and saying goodbye to your circle, hiring professional movers will be the last thing on your list.
When this happens, you’ll be tempted to choose the first team you come across. This could mean trusting your most valuable, important items to an unscrupulous company with less-than-stellar reviews. Part of being a smart homeowner is doing your homework, so give yourself plenty of time to tackle this task.
2. Always Read Reviews
There’s a reason why 84% of people now trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations from friends and family members. Customers who take to the internet to share a great experience or air their grievances are usually brutally honest, and that helps narrow your selection.
Once you have a short list of local companies in mind, check out their online presence. Scroll through their website, Google Profile, and social media pages. Read reviews and testimonials to learn the key features of each company and gauge how your own experience might go.
3. Ensure Licenses, Credentials, and Coverage
Any residential movers you hire should be licensed and accredited to do business in your state. They should also follow all requisite state and federal regulations when performing work. Whether you’re moving one town away or you need to hire a long distance moving service, always check these credentials.
For interstate moves, ask the team to provide their U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) number, and make sure they follow all motor carrier requirements. If you’re moving in-state, you can usually check that information (and verify licenses) with your local consumer affairs agency.
Finally, don’t forget to ask about cargo protection. While your homeowner’s insurance many cover any damages you encounter, the moving company should have its own coverage, too.
4. Understand the Fee Structure
The last thing you want in the middle of moving is to get hit with a ton of unexpected moving fees. Before signing on the dotted line with any moving company, ask for a complete and detailed quote. Make sure it includes everything that you’ll be expected to pay, and ask for clarification if you need it.
Most companies will be upfront about their prices, though some may try to sneak in extra costs for things like moving valuable or heavy items. Try to get at least three quotes and compare them to make sure you’re getting a good deal.
Find the Best Moving Company Today
Moving can be an incredibly exciting, yet stressful, time. The more you can plan and prepare beforehand, the smoother the big day will go. When you take the time to find the best moving company in your area, you can rest assured that this step will be a smooth one.
