7 Tips for Choosing a Moving Company

No matter if it’s local or long distance, finding a reputable moving company is key to an enjoyable transition experience. Here are seven tips to help find the best one for your specific needs:

Check a company’s credentials carefully – make sure they’re licensed, insured and registered with either your state Department of Transportation (for local moves) or with the U.S. Department of Transportation (for interstate moves).

Get Recommendations

Before hiring Walnut Creek movers for your home relocation, seek recommendations from friends and family. This can help ensure that you hire the appropriate company.

Ask how long the company has been operating and whether any complaints have been lodged against them. Also, verify if they are licensed by the federal government by checking their USDOT and motor carrier operating authority numbers on FMCSA website.

Once you have your list of prospective movers, ask for estimates and compare prices. It should be easy to find a moving company that fits within your budget without compromising quality or speed, while don’t forget tipping the crew if they do an outstanding job, just as you would when dining out or visiting a hairdresser – tipping builds positive relationships and could increase your odds of receiving better service in future!

Get Quotes

Consider gathering multiple moving quotes six weeks in advance of your move in order to compare prices and services offered, while making sure no hidden fees or charges sneak into your bill.

Consider whether or not your chosen movers have proper licensing and insurance. In California, for instance, moving companies must hold a Transportation License number (T number). You can also visit your state regulator’s website to search up their licensing status.

Be sure to ask whether your mover offers full- or self-service moves before signing on the dotted line. Expect to pay more when working with full-service movers compared to self-service ones; additionally, tipping is appreciated and often accepted if their crew demonstrates exceptional care when handling fragile or heavy items, or provides additional assistance carrying them.

Do Your Research

Prior to selecting a moving company, it’s crucial that you conduct research. Compare pricing and services provided, as well as any hidden costs such as fuel surcharges or tolls. Be sure that any company under consideration is licensed and insured – seeking out one with both affordability and quality service in mind is best. Whenever possible, arrange for an in-home estimate so an estimator can view your inventory more precisely before providing an accurate quote.

Tipping your movers may also be appreciated; though not required, they’ll appreciate being appreciated when working hard to safely transport your items quickly. Please read our guide on how much to tip before giving a monetary reward to any mover.

Get a Good Deal

Researching will make it easier to negotiate an advantageous contract with movers. Be mindful of what services are included in their quotation, such as packing or storage arrangements, as well as what the estimated costs of your move might be based on the size and contents of your home.

Make your move cost less expensive by hiring a moving company that provides flat rate pricing for smaller moves, or pack light when moving during summer or end-of-month shifts when movers are less busy.

If your price negotiation tactics don’t succeed initially, don’t give up. Keep trying with different representatives until one seems more willing to offer better terms; also consider tipping them if their work exceeds your expectations.