Relocating a home or business is a major life event with a ton of moving parts. From packing all your belongings to assembling furniture at your new location, there’s a lot to do. Movers can make or break your experience.
But with so many moving companies across the country, and even in your city, it’s hard to choose the right one for your needs. This guide will provide some clarity. Follow these steps to choose the right local movers, be it a residential or commercial move:
Know Your Moving Needs
Before reaching out to a moving company, define the scope of your move. A residential move is poles apart from an office relocation, requiring different types of equipment and coordination.
Start by taking inventory of your belongings and understanding the layout of both locations. For instance, if you’re moving into a residential building, it’s important to figure out the parking, elevator, and staircase availability. This is especially important in urban areas. A local mover typically has experience with all kinds of building regulations.
Overall, setting clear expectations and researching beforehand can help ensure a smoother moving experience.
Identify Any Special Handling Requirements
For both residential and commercial moves, certain items require extra care. This could be antiques, artwork, electronics, and specialty furniture.
Once you’ve identified these fragile items, consider which local moving companies have the resources to move your belongings without damage. Some local movers use specialized packing materials and techniques, such as bubble wrap and custom-made, reinforced boxes, to prevent chipping. They should also ensure secure placement during transport.
Ask Around for Recommendations
Now that you’ve identified your needs, ask around for recommendations. Reach out to friends, family members, or colleagues who have recently moved. They will give you a complete rundown of their experience — the good and the bad.
Make sure to inquire about a moving company’s pricing policy. Binding written estimates are generally recommended as they help avoid any financial surprises.
Verify Licenses and Credentials
Next, make sure the moving company is licensed with the regulatory bodies. For instance, if you’re based in Connecticut and relocating locally, the company should be fully registered, insured, and licensed under Connecticut law.
Moreover, the drivers should be trained and licensed to operate vehicles. They must know how to navigate unique moving conditions with skill and care. Your items should arrive exactly as they leave your property.
Watch Out for Red Flags
You would be surprised to realize how many moving companies run scams. They quote incredibly low estimates to build trust. Then, hold a victim’s possessions hostage until they receive additional payments.
Before you get overwhelmed, know that there are ways to avoid such scams. The best thing to do is watch out for red flags like:
- No physical address. Reliable moving companies have a physical commercial address. Having a residential address or listing only a P.O. Box could indicate that the business is not legitimate.
- No active license. A moving company must have a valid U.S. DOT number on its website.
- Asking for a huge deposit. A legit moving company would never ask for a large upfront deposit.
